Salted Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies are the ultimate three-ingredient magic! They combine salty, sweet, and crunchy into an irresistible no-bake treat that’s perfect for last-minute cravings or easy holiday gifting. If you love simple desserts, you might also enjoy the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe or the decadent Baileys Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle Recipe.

Ingredients

These cookies deliver the perfect trio of textures: a crisp, buttery cracker base, a gooey caramel center, and a smooth, snappy chocolate shell with a hint of salty contrast.

• 30 Ritz crackers
• About 1/2 cup soft caramels (approximately 30 caramels)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
• 8 ounces chocolate almond bark (or chocolate candy coating)
• Sea salt, for sprinkling

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	5 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes

Context: This quick process makes these Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies about 20% faster than similar no-bake cookie recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients and Tools

Gather one sleeve of Ritz crackers, a bag of soft caramels, a bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips, and flaky sea salt. You will also need parchment paper, a baking sheet, and a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting.

Step 2 — Unwrap and Melt the Caramels

Unwrap the soft caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until completely smooth and pourable. This usually takes about 90 seconds total.

Tip: Add a teaspoon of heavy cream or milk if the caramel is too thick to drizzle easily.

Step 3 — Assemble the Cookie Sandwiches

Lay out half of the Ritz crackers on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon a small dollop of the melted caramel onto the center of each cracker. Immediately top with a second cracker, pressing down gently to create a sandwich and spread the caramel to the edges.

Step 4 — Melt the Chocolate for Coating

Melt the chocolate chips using a double boiler or in the microwave. For the microwave, heat in 20-second bursts, stirring thoroughly each time, until just melted and glossy to avoid seizing.

Step 5 — Coat the Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies

Using a fork or dipping tool, fully submerge each caramel sandwich into the melted chocolate. Lift it out, gently tap off the excess, and place it back on the parchment paper.

Step 6 — Add the Finishing Salt and Set

Immediately after dipping, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of each cookie while the chocolate is still wet. Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature, which takes about 1-2 hours.

Doneness cue: The chocolate will lose its shine and become firm to a light touch.

Step 7 — Serve and Store

Once set, your Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies are ready to enjoy! Store them in a single layer in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to one week.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~180 kcal
Protein	~2 g
Carbohydrates	~22 g
Fat	~10 g
Fiber	~0.5 g
Sodium	~150 mg

Note: Estimates are per cookie and based on typical ingredients for these Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies. Actual values can vary with specific brands and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

These Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies are wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple ingredient swaps to tailor them to different dietary needs without sacrificing that sweet and salty crunch.

• Nut Butter for Protein — Swap the caramel layer for a thin spread of almond or peanut butter. It adds protein and healthy fats for a more satisfying treat.
• Low-Carb Crackers — Use Fathead dough crackers or store-bought almond flour crackers to significantly reduce the net carbs in this recipe.
• Dairy-Free Chocolate — Choose a high-quality dairy-free dark chocolate for dipping to make these cookies completely vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Crackers — Simply replace the classic Ritz with your favorite gluten-free buttery cracker to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Reduced-Sodium Crackers — Opt for a “low sodium” or “no salt added” version of buttery round crackers to cut down on salt while keeping the texture.
• Sugar-Free Caramel — Use a sugar-free caramel dip or a homemade version with a monk fruit sweetener to lower the sugar content.
• Dark Chocolate Coating — Dip the cookies in 70% or higher dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor and more antioxidants.
• Seed Butter Alternative — For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter as the creamy layer between the crackers.

Serving Suggestions

These irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies are a versatile treat. Here are some ideas for pairing, plating, and presenting them for any occasion.

• Perfect Pairings: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. A cup of strong coffee or a cold glass of milk also balances the sweet and salty flavors beautifully.
• Holiday Platter Star: Arrange these cookies on a festive platter with other homemade candies and treats. Their shiny chocolate coating and sprinkle toppings make them a visually stunning addition to any Christmas or cookie exchange spread.
• Gift Them Beautifully: Place a few Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies in a clear cellophane bag, tie with a ribbon, and add a gift tag for a thoughtful, homemade present. They also stack neatly in a decorative tin.
• After-Dinner Mint: For a dinner party, offer one or two on a small dessert plate as a sweet-and-salvy petit four. The small, bite-sized portion is a perfect finale.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Let kids customize their own by setting up a topping bar with different sprinkles, crushed nuts, or mini chocolate chips for dipping.
• Elevated Presentation: For a more elegant look, drizzle the finished cookies with a little white chocolate and sprinkle with flaky sea salt instead of traditional sprinkles.

No matter how you serve them, these easy cookies are sure to be a hit. Their combination of salty cracker, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate is simply unforgettable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using stale crackers that have lost their crispness. Fix: Always start with a fresh, tightly sealed box to ensure a satisfying crunch in every Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookie.
• Mistake: Overheating the caramel, causing it to become grainy or too hard. Fix: Melt store-bought caramels or make your sauce over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until just smooth.
• Mistake: Applying caramel that is too thick, making the cookies difficult to bite. Fix: Use a thin, even layer between the crackers; excess will ooze out during the chocolate coating.
• Mistake: Tempering chocolate incorrectly, leading to a dull finish or “bloom.” Fix: For simplicity, use high-quality melting wafers or gently melt chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil.
• Mistake: Dipping cookies while the caramel layer is still warm and soft. Fix: Let the caramel-filled crackers set completely at room temperature before coating in chocolate.
• Mistake: Skipping the parchment paper and setting cookies directly on a tray. Fix: Always line your sheet with parchment or a silicone mat for easy removal and clean-up.
• Mistake: Refrigerating the cookies before the chocolate has fully set, causing condensation. Fix: Allow the chocolate to harden at cool room temperature for 1-2 hours first.
• Mistake: Storing finished cookies improperly, making them soggy. Fix: Keep your Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at cool room temperature.
• Mistake: Rushing the decorating step before the base chocolate layer is firm. Fix: Let the initial chocolate coating set completely before drizzling with a contrasting color for clean lines.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store assembled Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies in a single layer in an airtight container. They will keep well for up to 5 days. The chocolate coating helps seal in freshness.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat: For the best texture, serve these cookies at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly softened caramel, microwave a single cookie for 5-8 seconds. Do not heat above 140°F (60°C) to prevent the chocolate from seizing.

Always allow the chocolate coating to set completely before storing to prevent sticking. For food safety, discard any cookies left at room temperature for more than 4 hours.

Conclusion

These irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies are the perfect sweet and salty treat. If you love easy, no-bake desserts, you should also try our No-Bake Twix Cheesecake Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker for this recipe?

We recommend using classic Ritz crackers for the best results. Their buttery flavor and slight saltiness perfectly complement the sweet caramel and chocolate coating in these Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies. Substitutes may alter the classic taste and texture.

How should I store Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies?

Store your finished Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking is necessary. They are best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness and crunch.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time for a party?

Yes, these no-bake cookies are an excellent make-ahead treat. You can assemble the Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies a day or two in advance. Just ensure the chocolate coating is fully set before storing them as directed.