Want a sweet treat in minutes? Try this easy cracker candy recipe made with simple ingredients for a quick family dinner dessert, save for later and indulge in crispy addictive goodness tonight

Easy Churro Cracker Candy Recipe (Crispy + Addictive!)

Introduction

Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat that’s both crispy and addictive? Look no further than our Easy Churro Cracker Candy Recipe! This delightful dessert is made with everyday ingredients that you likely have on hand, and it’s incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of crunchy crackers, sweet caramel, and cinnamon sugar will have you hooked from the very first bite. Plus, the best part is that you can customize it to your taste with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Whether you’re a fan of classic churros or just looking for a new dessert to try, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe uses a combination of familiar ingredients like crackers, sugar, and cinnamon to create a unique and delicious flavor profile that’s easy to achieve.
Ease of preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a batch of crispy churro cracker candy ready to devour in no time.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this recipe yields a dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family with its crunchy texture and sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include saltine crackers, brown sugar, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, unsalted butter, cinnamon, and chocolate chips or chocolate shavings for topping (optional). You can also customize your churro cracker candy with other mix-ins like nuts, sprinkles, or dried fruit. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the saltine crackers with a gluten-free alternative. Keep in mind that the type of sugar you use can affect the flavor and texture of the final product, so feel free to experiment with different types of sugar to find your favorite.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully pour the hot sugar mixture over the saltine crackers. Use a spatula or spoon to spread the mixture evenly and make sure all of the crackers are coated. Allow the mixture to cool and set for about 5 minutes, or until it has reached a firm, caramel-like consistency. Sprinkle the top with cinnamon and any desired mix-ins.
Step 4: Melt the unsalted butter and brush it over the top of the churro cracker candy. If desired, melt some chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler and drizzle it over the top of the candy. Allow the chocolate to set before breaking the candy into pieces and serving.

Handy Tips

To ensure that your churro cracker candy turns out crispy, make sure to not overcook the sugar mixture. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the mixture by dropping a small amount of it into a cup of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed from the water, it’s ready. If it doesn’t form a ball, continue cooking the mixture and testing it until it reaches the correct consistency.
Be careful when working with hot sugar, as it can cause burns. Make sure to use a spatula or spoon to handle the mixture, and avoid touching it with your bare hands.
If you find that your churro cracker candy is too sticky or chewy, you can try baking it in a low oven (150°F – 200°F or 65°C – 90°C) for about 10-15 minutes to dry it out. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t become too crispy or browned.

Heat Control

When making the sugar mixture, it’s essential to heat it to the correct temperature to achieve the right consistency. If you have a candy thermometer, use it to monitor the temperature of the mixture. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the mixture by dropping a small amount of it into a cup of cold water. The ideal temperature for this recipe is between 290°F (143°C) and 300°F (150°C). Be careful not to overheat the mixture, as this can cause it to become too dark or develop a bitter flavor.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the saltine crackers and the caramelized sugar mixture. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure to not overcook the sugar mixture, and avoid stirring it too much, as this can cause it to become grainy or chewy. If you prefer a crunchier candy, you can try baking it in a low oven for a few minutes to dry it out. Keep in mind that the crunch factor will also depend on the type of crackers you use, so feel free to experiment with different types of crackers to find your favorite.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

To make cleanup easier, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat before arranging the crackers. This will prevent the sugar mixture from sticking to the sheet and make it easier to remove the candy once it’s set.
If you find that your churro cracker candy is too sticky or chewy, you can try adding a small amount of cornstarch or flour to the sugar mixture before cooking it. This will help to absorb any excess moisture and create a crisper texture.
To add an extra layer of flavor to your candy, try sprinkling a pinch of sea salt or a teaspoon of vanilla extract over the top of the sugar mixture before it sets. This will give the candy a more complex and interesting flavor profile.

Storage Tips

To store your churro cracker candy, break it into pieces and place it in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. You can store the candy at room temperature for up to 5 days.
If you want to keep the candy fresh for a longer period, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Simply place the candy in an airtight container and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
To freeze the candy, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and put it in the freezer until it’s frozen solid. Then, transfer the candy to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the candy at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you want to give your churro cracker candy as a gift, there are several creative ways to package it. You can place the candy in a decorative tin or jar, or wrap it in cellophane or plastic wrap and tie it with a ribbon. You can also add a personalized touch by including a gift tag or a handwritten note. Another idea is to package the candy in a gift basket or bag with other sweet treats, such as chocolates or cookies. Whatever packaging method you choose, make sure to include a label or card with the ingredients and any relevant allergy information.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture for a unique flavor twist.
🌟 Creative toppings: Experiment with different toppings, such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or dried fruit, to add texture and flavor to your candy.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute the saltine crackers with a different type of cracker, such as Ritz or Club crackers, for a different flavor and texture. You can also try using different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or turbinado sugar, for a slightly different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your churro cracker candy turns out too sticky or chewy, try baking it in a low oven for a few minutes to dry it out. If it’s too hard or brittle, you can try adding a small amount of water or corn syrup to the sugar mixture to soften it.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have saltine crackers, you can substitute them with a different type of cracker. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar instead. Keep in mind that substituting ingredients may affect the flavor and texture of the final product.
Over/undercooking signs: If you overcook the sugar mixture, it may become too dark or develop a bitter flavor. If you undercook it, it may not set properly and will be too sticky or chewy. Keep an eye on the mixture and adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze your churro cracker candy for up to 2 months. Simply place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.
Is it gluten-free? The saltine crackers used in this recipe contain gluten, so it’s not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. However, you can substitute the crackers with a gluten-free alternative to make the recipe gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch of churro cracker candy. Simply multiply all of the ingredients by two and follow the same instructions as before.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy this Easy Churro Cracker Candy Recipe! With its crispy texture, sweet flavor, and customizable toppings, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of classic churros or just looking for a new dessert to try, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the recipe your own, and be sure to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!

Easy Crispy Churro Candy Recipe Addictive