These Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are a perfect blend of salty, sweet, crunchy, and chewy—all in one bite! The combination of buttery Ritz crackers, rich caramel, and crunchy peanuts makes these treats irresistible. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they are also quick and easy to make. Perfect for parties, afternoon snacks, or a quick treat when those cravings hit, these caramel peanut treats will satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth without requiring any baking. Let’s dive into this no-bake recipe that’s sure to be a favorite!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 sleeves Ritz crackers (about 50 crackers)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups salted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare a Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Set aside.
- Make the Caramel Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, butter, heavy cream, and salt. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Continue to boil the caramel mixture for about 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. The caramel should thicken slightly and turn a light amber color.
- Add Vanilla and Peanuts
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Immediately add the chopped salted peanuts to the caramel, mixing well to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Assemble the Treats
- Working quickly, spoon the caramel peanut mixture onto each Ritz cracker. Use about a tablespoon of the mixture for each cracker, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
- Cool and Set
- Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, or until the caramel has set. If you prefer, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.
- Drizzle with Chocolate (Optional)
- Once the caramel has set, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of each treat for an extra layer of flavor.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Caramel Consistency: Be sure to cook the caramel until it thickens slightly. If it is undercooked, it may be too runny, and if overcooked, it can become hard and brittle.
- Working Quickly: When spooning the caramel mixture onto the crackers, work quickly, as the caramel will start to firm up as it cools.
- Storage: Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. These treats can also be frozen for longer storage.
Recipe Variations
- Pretzel Substitute: Substitute Ritz crackers with mini pretzels for a saltier, crunchier version of these treats.
- Peanut Butter Addition: Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on each Ritz cracker before adding the caramel mixture for a delicious peanut butter twist.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Use melted white chocolate instead of semi-sweet or milk chocolate for a different flavor contrast.
- Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over each treat before the caramel sets for an elevated salted caramel flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use unsalted peanuts instead of salted peanuts? A: Yes, you can use unsalted peanuts, but adding a small pinch of salt to the caramel will help balance the sweetness.
Q: Can I make these treats ahead of time? A: Absolutely! These treats store well at room temperature or in the refrigerator, making them perfect for making ahead for parties or events.
Q: Can I use caramel candies instead of making the caramel from scratch? A: Yes, you can melt store-bought caramel candies with a bit of heavy cream to achieve a similar consistency. However, homemade caramel gives the best flavor and texture.
Q: How do I prevent the caramel from sticking to the parchment paper? A: If you find that the caramel sticks to the parchment paper, you can lightly grease the parchment with non-stick cooking spray before spooning the caramel mixture onto the crackers.
These Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are a delightful blend of salty and sweet that will satisfy any craving. With the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers, the chewy caramel, and the nutty flavor of peanuts, these treats are simple yet incredibly delicious. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors in every bite!