Introduction
Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are a perfect combination of salty, sweet, crunchy, and chewy. These no-bake bites use buttery Ritz crackers layered with creamy peanut butter and coated in a rich caramel-peanut topping. They’re quick to assemble, incredibly addictive, and ideal for parties, holidays, or whenever you need a fun dessert with minimal effort. If you love candy bars, peanut butter, and caramel, this treat is for you!
Ingredients
For the Base
24–30 Ritz crackers
½ cup creamy peanut butter (for spreading)
For the Caramel Peanut Topping
1 cup caramel bits or soft caramels, unwrapped
2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
½ cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For Finishing
1 cup chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark)
1 tbsp coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoother melting)
Instructions
Prepare the Crackers:
Lay the Ritz crackers on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
Add Peanut Butter:
Spread a light layer of peanut butter on each cracker.
Make the Caramel Topping:
Add caramel bits and heavy cream to a small saucepan.
Heat on low, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
Mix in chopped peanuts and vanilla (if using).
Spoon the Caramel:
Add a spoonful of the caramel-peanut mixture on top of each peanut-buttered cracker.
Melt the Chocolate:
Microwave chocolate chips with coconut oil in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Alternatively, melt over a double boiler.
Coat the Treats:
Drizzle or dip each caramel cracker into the chocolate. Place them back on the parchment.
Chill:
Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes or until set.
Serve:
Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container.
Description
These treats combine everything wonderful: the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers, creamy peanut butter, chewy caramel, and crunchy peanuts—all wrapped in smooth chocolate. They taste like a gourmet candy bar but require almost no effort. Every bite delivers salty-sweet perfection.
Tips
Don’t overheat the caramel: It burns easily; keep heat low.
Use crushed pretzels instead of peanuts for extra crunch.
Freeze for firmer texture if you prefer a more candy-bar-like bite.
Add sea salt flakes on top for a salted-caramel twist.
Use almond or cashew butter if you want a peanut-free option.
Variations
White Chocolate Drizzle: Use white chocolate for a sweeter, softer flavor.
Nutty Mix: Swap peanuts for almonds, cashews, or pecans.
Caramel-Only: Skip the peanuts for a smooth caramel finish.
S’mores Style: Add a tiny piece of marshmallow before the caramel for a fun twist.
No Chocolate Version: Just leave them caramel-coated.
Correction
If your caramel becomes too thick or grainy, add 1–2 teaspoons of cream and stir until smooth.
If your chocolate seizes, add a small amount of oil or butter to loosen it.
Enjoy
Serve these delightful treats chilled or at room temperature with coffee, tea, or as a quick dessert bite. They are guaranteed to disappear fast—so make extra and enjoy every sweet, crunchy, caramel-filled bite!