Bark

Origin unknown, family favorite at Christmas.    

• Saltine crackers - 1 sleeve

• Butter - 1 stick

• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon

• Sugar - 1 cup

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1 12oz bag

• Walnuts - 1/2 cup (chopped) - Optional

• Pastry brush

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Line a 9 x 13 cookie sheet with foil and cover with saltines, salty side down.

3. Melt butter, sugar, and vanilla together in a large bowl (use microwave) and mix.

4. Pour the contents from step 3 and spread evenly over the saltine crackers.

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes and then remove from oven.

6. Cover the crackers with the chocolate chips, as the chocolate begins to melt, spread evenly over the surface. You may need to put it back in the oven for 1 minute to help the chocolate melt.

7. If using nuts, sprinkle on immediately after the chips are melted. 

8. Refrigerate for several hours (or overnight). Remove from fridge and break into pieces. 

• Subsitute the walnuts for roasted pecan halves. 

• Not recommended during hot weather; melts quickly.