Peanut Butter Bits Cracker Candy is an easy, no-bake treat that combines the perfect blend of salty, sweet, and crunchy flavors. With crispy crackers, smooth peanut butter, and a rich chocolate coating, this candy is a hit for holiday gifts, parties, or just an indulgent snack. The best part? It takes minimal ingredients and effort to create these irresistible bites.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve of saltine crackers (about 40 crackers)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crackers
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lay half of the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread a generous layer of creamy peanut butter on each cracker.
- Place another cracker on top of each peanut butter-covered cracker to create a sandwich.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil or vegetable shortening.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Coat the Crackers
- Using a fork, dip each cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate, making sure it is completely coated.
- Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing the chocolate-coated cracker back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- If desired, sprinkle the tops of the coated crackers with chopped peanuts for extra texture.
Step 4: Chill the Candy
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the cracker candy from the baking sheet and store in an airtight container.
- Serve and enjoy these sweet, salty, and crunchy treats!
Cooking Notes
- Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best for spreading, but you can also use crunchy peanut butter if you like a bit of extra texture in your candy.
- Chocolate Coating: The coconut oil or vegetable shortening helps the chocolate set with a shiny finish. You can omit it if you prefer, but the coating may be slightly thicker.
- Chilling: Make sure to chill the cracker candy until fully set. This will ensure the chocolate is firm and easy to handle.
Variations
White Chocolate Peanut Butter Candy
- Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. You can also add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top for a contrasting finish.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Candy
- Add a small dollop of jelly or jam on top of the peanut butter before sandwiching the crackers together. The sweet, fruity addition makes these even more reminiscent of a classic PB&J.
Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Candy
- Drizzle some caramel sauce over the chocolate-coated crackers and sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet and salty caramel twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Ritz Crackers Instead of Saltines?
Yes! Ritz crackers add a buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter and chocolate. Just be aware that they are slightly thicker than saltines, so the texture will be a bit different.
How Should I Store Leftover Candy?
Store the cracker candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months for longer storage.
Can I Use Dark Chocolate Instead of Semi-Sweet?
Absolutely. Dark chocolate adds a deeper flavor and less sweetness, making it a great option if you prefer a less sugary treat.
Peanut Butter Bits Cracker Candy is the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy in every bite. Whether you’re making these for a party, as a gift, or just as a treat for yourself, they are sure to be a hit. Customize them with different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy the simple joy of these easy-to-make, no-bake delights.
Happy snacking, and enjoy every sweet, peanut-buttery bite of this irresistible cracker candy!