If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both simple and unbelievably addictive, Graham Cracker Toffee is your answer. This classic treat combines the crunch of buttery graham crackers with the rich, caramelized sweetness of toffee and melted chocolate — all topped with a sprinkle of nuts or sea salt for that perfect finish.
It’s a recipe that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for holidays, parties, or late-night cravings, this toffee is so easy to make that you’ll find yourself preparing it again and again.
Ingredients
Makes about 24 pieces
- 12 full sheets graham crackers
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
- 2 cups (350g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Cooling time: 1 hour
- Total time: About 1 hour, 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Arrange graham cracker sheets in a single layer, covering the entire baking sheet.
Step 2: Make the Toffee
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat.
- Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Let it boil for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until smooth and thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
Step 3: Pour and Bake
- Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture over the graham crackers, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the toffee bubbles and darkens slightly.
Step 4: Add Chocolate
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee.
- Let sit for 2 minutes, then spread melted chocolate evenly across the surface.
Step 5: Finish and Cool
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or a light dusting of sea salt over the melted chocolate (optional).
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
- Once firm, break into irregular pieces and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a sweet snack with coffee or tea.
- Package in decorative bags for holiday gifts or party favors.
- Use as a dessert topping — crushed over ice cream or yogurt.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 piece) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 23 grams |
| Sugars | 17 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 90 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Butter and chocolate provide richness and flavor — best enjoyed in moderation.
- Pecans or walnuts add heart-healthy fats and crunch.
- For a lighter version, use dark chocolate chips and whole-grain graham crackers.
- Store in the freezer for portion-controlled treats that stay fresh longer.
Tips for the Perfect Graham Cracker Toffee
- Use real butter, not margarine — it gives the toffee its classic flavor.
- Keep stirring the toffee mixture while boiling to prevent burning.
- For a salty-sweet contrast, sprinkle with flaky sea salt right before the chocolate sets.
- You can substitute saltine crackers or pretzels for a fun flavor variation.
Flavor Variations
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Drizzle melted peanut butter over the chocolate layer before cooling.
- White Chocolate Twist: Use white chocolate chips and top with crushed peppermint or almonds.
- Espresso Kick: Stir 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the toffee mixture.
- Tropical Crunch: Add toasted coconut flakes and macadamia nuts on top.
This Graham Cracker Toffee recipe is the ultimate example of how a few simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. It’s buttery, sweet, crunchy, and just a little bit salty — the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re making it for a holiday platter, a gift box, or a quick homemade indulgence, this toffee will disappear faster than you can make it. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s often called “Christmas Crack” — it’s that addictive!