Sweet Cinnamon Churro Crackers

This buttery churro cracker candy transforms simple saltines into an addictive treat with layers of caramel, white chocolate, and cinnamon sugar. The combination creates that beloved churro flavor without the hassle of deep frying or special equipment.

I first made this recipe for a Cinco de Mayo party and it disappeared faster than any other dessert. Now my friends specifically request my "crack candy" whenever we get together, and I always keep the ingredients on hand for last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 to 3 sleeves saltine crackers: forms the crunchy base that holds everything together
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: combines with cinnamon for that classic churro coating
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon: provides the signature churro flavor profile
• 1 cup butter: creates a rich caramel layer when combined with brown sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar: caramelizes with the butter for a toffeelike layer
• 12 oz bag white chocolate chips: adds creamy sweetness and helps bind everything together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Base:

Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and arrange saltines in a single layer covering the entire sheet. The tight arrangement ensures your candy will hold together properly. Make sure to press the crackers gently together.

Mix The Churro Coating:

Combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until evenly distributed. This mixture is what gives the candy its distinctive churro flavor, so take a moment to break up any clumps in the cinnamon for even distribution.

Create The Caramel Layer:

Melt the butter completely in a saucepan over medium heat, then add the brown sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to bubble around the edges. Continue cooking for exactly 2 more minutes while the mixture bubbles. The caramel will deepen in color slightly but should not darken too much.

Coat The Crackers:

Pour the hot caramel evenly over the saltines, working quickly to cover all crackers before the mixture begins to set. Use a heat resistant spatula to spread the caramel into any gaps or uncovered areas. Try to create an even layer across the entire surface.

Bake The Base:

Place the caramel covered crackers in your preheated 350°F oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes. Watch carefully as the caramel sauce bubbles and darkens slightly. The edges may brown faster, which is normal, but avoid letting them burn.

Add The Chocolate Layer:

Remove from oven and immediately scatter the white chocolate chips across the hot surface. Wait patiently for about 5 minutes as the residual heat melts the chips. Then use a clean spatula to spread the now softened white chocolate into a smooth, even layer that covers all the caramel.

Apply The Churro Topping:

While the chocolate is still warm and soft, quickly sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the entire surface. Work methodically from one end to the other to ensure complete coverage. The warm chocolate will help the cinnamon sugar adhere.

Cool And Break:

Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or speed up the process by placing in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Once firm, break the candy into irregular pieces by hand or by gently tapping with the back of a knife.

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The cinnamon sugar topping is what makes this candy truly special. My grandmother always said cinnamon was nature's perfect spice, and this recipe proves her right. When my kids help make this, they always negotiate for the job of sprinkling on the cinnamon sugar mixture, and I let them because their excitement over this simple step reminds me of my own childhood joy in the kitchen.

Storage Tips

This churro cracker candy stays fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. The flavor actually improves after 24 hours as the cinnamon notes fully develop. For longer storage, place in the refrigerator where it will keep for 2 to 3 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months in a freezer safe container with parchment paper between layers.

Clever Variations

Try using graham crackers instead of saltines for a slightly sweeter base. For a more decadent version, use milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate and add a sprinkle of sea salt on top. During the holidays, add a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a festive twist that tastes like Christmas morning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this churro cracker candy alongside coffee or hot chocolate for an afternoon treat. For an impressive dessert board, pair with fresh berries and whipped cream. The candy also makes a wonderful topping when broken into smaller pieces and sprinkled over vanilla ice cream or as a surprising garnish for Mexican hot chocolate.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use different types of crackers for this churro candy?

Yes! While saltines provide the perfect salty base, you can experiment with graham crackers for a sweeter result, or butter crackers for extra richness. Just maintain a similar thickness to ensure proper cooking time.

→ How long does churro cracker candy stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these treats remain fresh for 7-10 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Absolutely! While white chocolate complements the churro flavor profile beautifully, milk or dark chocolate work well too. The cinnamon-sugar topping will still create that distinctive churro taste regardless of chocolate type.

→ Why did my caramel mixture crystallize?

Crystallization typically happens if you stir the caramel too much after it begins bubbling. Once combined, minimize stirring and maintain a steady medium heat. Also, ensure your brown sugar doesn't have hardened lumps before starting.

→ How do I know when the caramel is done cooking?

The caramel is ready when it has been bubbling for about 2 minutes and has slightly darkened in color. It should coat the back of a spoon smoothly. Undercooking results in a soft, sticky texture while overcooking creates a bitter taste.

→ Can I add other toppings to this candy?

Definitely! Consider adding chopped nuts, toffee bits, or a light sprinkle of sea salt. For extra churro authenticity, you could even drizzle with dulce de leche once everything has cooled.