Chocolate Splinters
Chocolate Splinters are crunchy, chocolatey treats topped with walnuts, perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a sweet snack with a rich, buttery flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a cookie sheet with foil and arrange saltines all over the sheet.
- In a saucepan, boil the brown sugar and butter until thick, then pour the mixture over the saltines.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the warm saltines and spread them with a spatula until melted and smooth.
- Top with crushed English walnuts.
- Refrigerate until cooled, then peel off the foil and break into splinters or squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter touch, consider using semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the walnuts or substitute with crushed pretzels for added crunch. Keep an eye on the caramel mixture as it thickens to prevent burning. Using a silicone spatula can help in spreading the melted chocolate smoothly over the saltines.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Splinters make a delightful treat on their own, or you can serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a fun addition to dessert platters at gatherings, especially alongside options like Kris Krinkles or Nancy'S Goofy Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chocolate Splinters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to preserve their crunchiness, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other. You can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Splinters contains roughly 1074 calories, with 20g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (54% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cracker instead of saltines?
Yes, you can substitute saltines with other types of crackers like Ritz or Townhouse for a slightly different flavor profile. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold up under the caramel and chocolate layers.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Chocolate Splinters a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy until you're ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this dessert gluten-free by using gluten-free saltine crackers or any other gluten-free cracker option. Just check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).