When the holidays roll around, there’s one treat that always steals the spotlight: Christmas Tree Cake Crack. This festive candy combines the classic saltine toffee with the creamy, nostalgic filling of iconic Christmas Tree Cakes, creating a flavor and texture that’s truly irresistible.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Affiliate, if you purchase through those links, I earn a small commission. Thank you!
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a special treat to share, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s a perfect blend of Southern ingenuity and holiday cheer, making it an essential addition to your Christmas traditions.
A Southern food classic
In the South, food isn’t just nourishment—it’s tradition, family, and celebration. Growing up, our family would gather every December to make holiday treats together, filling the kitchen with warmth and laughter.
My grandmother always made a version of saltine toffee, but when I discovered the magic of combining it with Christmas Tree Cakes, it became an instant favorite. The crackly toffee paired with the creamy filling brings a little holiday magic to every bite, and it’s now a staple in my family’s holiday spread.
Ingredients
How to make Christmas Tree Cake Crack
Making this Christmas Tree Cake Crack is a simple, fun process that anyone can master. You’ll start by layering Ritz crackers on a pan, then pouring a rich, buttery toffee mixture over them. After baking the toffee-covered crackers, you’ll whip up a creamy filling that goes on top.
Finally, the whole treat gets coated in smooth vanilla almond bark, sprinkled with green sprinkles, and drizzled with melted red candy for that festive touch. Once everything cools, you’ll break it into pieces for a holiday treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Serving suggestions
This treat shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a warm mug of hot chocolate or a festive glass of eggnog. For a full Southern dessert spread, serve alongside classic pecan pie and sugar cookies. Wrap pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful holiday gift that friends and family will love.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, keep the container in the fridge.
When it’s time to serve, let the pieces sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture of the toffee and filling.
Southern farewell
Christmas Tree Cake Crack has a way of bringing people together. It’s more than just a dessert—it’s a little piece of holiday joy wrapped in nostalgia.
Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or sneaking a piece for yourself, this sweet Southern treat is bound to become a holiday favorite. So grab your apron, make some memories, and enjoy the magic of the season, one bite at a time.
Christmas Tree Cake Crack
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- 40 Ritz crackers
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
- 24 ounces vanilla almond bark
- ½ cup red candy melts
- Green sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 15x10x1-inch pan with foil and spray it with cooking spray. Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer across the pan.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir frequently until the mixture boils. Let it boil for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light brown color. Remove from heat and immediately pour the toffee mixture over the crackers, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the toffee-covered crackers for 5-8 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the pan cool completely.
- Using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add the marshmallow fluff and continue mixing until the filling is creamy and well-combined.
- Spread the filling evenly over the cooled toffee base.
- Melt the almond bark using a double boiler or in the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth. Pour the melted almond bark over the filling and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle green sprinkles generously over the almond bark. Melt the red candy melts, then transfer them to a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with the tip cut off. Drizzle the red candy melts over the top for a festive finish.
- Let the candy cool completely for about an hour at room temperature, or place it in the fridge for 30 minutes to set faster. Once firm, break the candy into bite-sized pieces and serve. Enjoy your Christmas Tree Cake Crack and the sweet memories that come with it!
