Introduction

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are the perfect blend of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy. These no-bake delights are incredibly easy to make, combining the rich flavor of caramel with the nuttiness of peanuts and the buttery crispness of Ritz crackers. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a treat to share at gatherings, these treats are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

1 sleeve of Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
1 cup caramel sauce
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup chopped peanuts
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing your workspace. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This will prevent the crackers from sticking and make it easier to remove them once they’re coated in chocolate. Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer on the lined baking sheet, ensuring that they are evenly spaced and not overlapping.

2. Mix the Peanut Butter and Caramel

In a small mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and caramel sauce. Use a spoon or spatula to blend the two ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The consistency should be thick but spreadable. If the mixture seems too thick, you can microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly, making it easier to work with.

3. Assemble the Treats

Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully spoon about 1 teaspoon of the caramel peanut butter mixture onto each Ritz cracker. Spread the mixture evenly over the surface of the cracker, but be sure to leave a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out when the crackers are dipped in chocolate. After spreading the mixture, sprinkle a few chopped peanuts on top of each cracker, pressing them gently into the peanut butter and caramel to help them adhere.

4. Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). The coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it a glossy finish. Microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize up and become grainy.

5. Dip the Crackers

Once the chocolate is melted, it’s time to coat the assembled crackers. Using a fork or tongs, gently pick up one cracker at a time and dip it into the melted chocolate, ensuring that the entire cracker is coated. Hold the cracker over the bowl for a few seconds to allow any excess chocolate to drip off, then place it back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat this process with all of the crackers.

6. Chill and Set

After all the crackers are dipped and placed on the baking sheet, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each one if you want to add a touch of saltiness to balance the sweetness. Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and let the treats chill for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set and hardened. This step is crucial to ensure that the treats hold their shape and have a nice, firm coating.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once the chocolate has hardened, your Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are ready to be enjoyed! Carefully remove them from the parchment paper and transfer them to a serving platter. These treats are perfect for snacking, sharing, or even gifting. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate from melting. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week.

Helpful Tips

Use Smooth Peanut Butter: For easier spreading, use smooth peanut butter, or microwave chunky peanut butter for a few seconds to soften it.
Experiment with Toppings: Add a drizzle of white chocolate or sprinkle crushed pretzels on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead: These treats can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Substitutions/Variations

Nut-Free Version: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and chopped peanuts with sunflower seeds.
Caramel Alternative: Use dulce de leche or a thick honey if you don’t have caramel sauce.
Cracker Options: Substitute Ritz crackers with any other buttery crackers or even graham crackers for a different flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce will work beautifully in this recipe, adding a richer flavor.

How should I store these treats?

Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate firm. They can last up to a week.

Can I freeze these treats?

Yes, you can freeze them! Place the treats in a single layer in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

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These Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are the perfect snack to satisfy your sweet and salty cravings. Enjoy making them, sharing them, and indulging in their irresistible flavors! Happy snacking!