My cracking occurs along the knuckle. I've found the trick is to keep your hands moisturized *before* they're chapped to the point of cracking. Once my hands have started cracking, it's too late and it's more about healing them than moisturizing.
I use Gold Bond Diabetic lotion. I'm not diabetic, but my mom is and I first borrowed some while visiting my parents. I apply every night before bed. That's usually enough, but for weeks like this one, where I have to turn down the home humidity due to the cold, I'll probably apply some mid-afternoon too.