Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats combine buttery crackers with rich, homemade caramel and crunchy peanuts for a delightful snack. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet bite anytime.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup roughly chopped salted peanuts
• About 40 Ritz crackers

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer on the sheet and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and milk, stirring constantly.
3. Step 3: When the mixture begins to bubble gently, lower the heat slightly and continue stirring for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens and turns a golden caramel color.
4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract, noting it may bubble up slightly.
5. Step 5: Quickly spoon about 1 teaspoon of caramel onto each Ritz cracker, then sprinkle chopped peanuts over the warm caramel so they stick.
6. Step 6: Let the treats set at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes until the caramel firms. For faster setting, refrigerate the tray.

Tips & Variations

• Drizzle melted milk or dark chocolate over the treats once the caramel is set for extra indulgence.
• Substitute peanuts with chopped almonds, cashews, or pecans for variety.
• Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the caramel while warm for a sweet and salty contrast.
• Create mini sandwich treats by adding a second Ritz cracker on top of the caramel and peanuts.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for a cozy, holiday-inspired flavor.

Storage

Store the Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. Allow refrigerated treats to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for the best texture. Avoid freezing as it can affect the caramel’s consistency.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted peanuts instead of salted?

Yes, you can use unsalted peanuts, but consider adding a small pinch of salt to the caramel or sprinkling salt on top to balance the sweetness.

How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Stir the caramel mixture constantly over medium to medium-low heat and avoid overheating. Once it starts bubbling gently, reduce the heat and keep stirring until it thickens to prevent scorching.

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats Recipe

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4.8 from 90 reviews

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are a delightful no-bake snack featuring buttery Ritz crackers topped with rich, homemade caramel sauce and crunchy chopped peanuts. This easy-to-make treat balances creamy caramel sweetness with a salty, nutty crunch, perfect for quick snacks, parties, or holiday gatherings.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 40 treats 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Sauce

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Assembly

• About 40 Ritz crackers (approximate amount for 1 layer)
• 1 cup roughly chopped salted peanuts

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer on the sheet and set aside for assembly.
2. Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Add the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and milk. Stir constantly as the mixture heats, allowing it to bubble gently. Reduce heat slightly and continue stirring for 4 to 5 minutes until the caramel thickens slightly and attains a golden color.
3. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract. Exercise caution as the mixture may bubble up with the addition.
4. Assemble the Treats: Working promptly, spoon about 1 teaspoon of warm caramel onto each Ritz cracker. Immediately sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the caramel, pressing lightly so they adhere.
5. Let Them Set: Allow the caramel-topped crackers to rest at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes until the caramel firms up adequately for handling. Alternatively, place the tray in the refrigerator for faster setting.

Notes

• Use salted peanuts to add extra flavor; you can substitute with almonds, cashews, or pecans as desired.
• For added indulgence, drizzle melted milk or dark chocolate over the set treats.
• Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of caramel while still warm for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Create mini sandwiches by adding a second Ritz cracker on top of each caramel dollop before caramel sets.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel sauce for a cozy holiday twist.
• If in a hurry, refrigerate the treats for quicker caramel setting.

Keywords: caramel peanut treats, Ritz cracker snacks, easy no-bake treats, caramel snacks, peanut caramel bites, party snacks