Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These Easy 4-Ingredient Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies are the ultimate sweet and salty treat. With just crackers, caramel, chocolate, and nuts, they come together in minutes for a no-bake dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser. If you love simple, decadent sweets, you might also enjoy this Easy Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe or the classic Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe.

Ingredients

These Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies combine the perfect salty crunch of buttery crackers with a gooey caramel center, all enrobed in smooth chocolate for an irresistible sweet-and-salty treat.

• 20 soft caramels
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• Approximately 2 sleeves of Ritz crackers (about 50-60 crackers)
• 24 ounces chocolate almond bark (or chocolate candy coating)
• Sea salt or sprinkles for topping

Timing

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

Context: This easy recipe for Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies is about 30% faster than similar no-bake dessert recipes, thanks to its simple assembly and quick setting time.

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 chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet), and your choice of toppings like chopped nuts or sea salt. You will also need parchment paper, a baking sheet, and a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler 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. Alternatively, melt them with a tablespoon of cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 3 — Assemble the Cookie Sandwiches

Lay out half of the Ritz crackers on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon or drizzle about one teaspoon 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

Place the chocolate chips in a clean microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring thoroughly after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and glossy. For best results, you can temper the chocolate to ensure a firm, snappy set and prevent blooming.

Step 5 — Dip and Coat the Cookies

Using a fork or dipping tool, fully submerge each caramel Ritz cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate. Lift it out, allowing the excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place the coated cookie back onto the parchment-lined sheet.

Step 6 — Add Toppings Before the Chocolate Sets

While the chocolate is still wet, immediately sprinkle your chosen toppings. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or finely chopped pecans complements the sweet and salty flavors perfectly. Work quickly before the chocolate begins to harden.

Step 7 — Allow the Chocolate to Set Completely

Let the finished Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies sit at room temperature until the chocolate coating is firm, which can take 1-2 hours. For faster setting, you can place the tray in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. The chocolate is set when it is no longer tacky to the touch.

Step 8 — Serve and Store

Once set, these no-bake cookies are ready to serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For best texture, avoid refrigeration as it can cause condensation.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~150 kcal
Protein	~2 g
Carbohydrates	~18 g
Fat	~8 g
Fiber	~0.5 g
Sodium	~120 mg

Note: These are approximate values for one Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookie, calculated using standard ingredients. Actual nutrition can vary based on specific brands and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

You can easily adapt these Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies to fit dietary needs or boost nutrition with a few simple swaps.

• Low-Sodium Crackers — Use unsalted or low-sodium Ritz crackers to significantly reduce the overall sodium content without sacrificing the essential buttery, flaky base.
• Dairy-Free Chocolate — Opt for high-quality dairy-free chocolate chips or a chopped dark chocolate bar to make the recipe vegan-friendly while maintaining a rich, decadent coating.
• Protein-Packed Peanut Butter — Swap the caramel layer for a thin spread of natural peanut butter or almond butter. This adds protein and healthy fats, creating a more satiating treat reminiscent of a peanut butter cup.
• Gluten-Free Base — Use your favorite gluten-free buttery cracker (like Schär or Glutino) to make these Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Sugar-Free Caramel — For a lower-carb version, look for a sugar-free caramel dip or make a quick sauce using a sugar substitute like erythritol or allulose blended with a touch of cream.
• Dark Chocolate Coating — Choose a chocolate with 70% cacao or higher. It contains less sugar and more antioxidants, offering a deeper, less sweet flavor that balances the saltiness beautifully.
• Nut or Seed Topping — Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with crushed almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for added crunch, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Light Caramel — Use a reduced-fat or “light” caramel ice cream topping. It will be slightly thinner but still delivers the classic sweet and gooey layer with fewer calories.

Serving Suggestions

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

• Perfect Pairings: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm, salty-sweet and cold creaminess. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the richness.
• Holiday & Gift Giving: These cookies are a fantastic addition to any holiday cookie tray, offering a unique texture and flavor. Package them in decorative boxes or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Party Platter Perfection: For a party, arrange the Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies on a tiered stand or a large platter. Scatter a few whole Ritz crackers and chocolate pieces around the base for a decorative, thematic presentation.
• After-Dinner Delight: Offer them as a sophisticated after-dinner treat. Place one or two cookies on a small dessert plate with a drizzle of extra caramel or a dusting of flaky sea salt for a restaurant-style finish.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Let kids help with the assembly! Set up a decorating station with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or mini M&Ms to press into the chocolate topping before it sets for a customizable and fun activity.
• Seasonal Twists: Adapt the recipe for different seasons. Use pastel-colored candy melts for spring, orange and black sprinkles for Halloween, or crushed peppermint candies for a festive Christmas version.

No matter how you serve them, these easy Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser with their perfect combination of salty, sweet, and crunchy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using crackers that are stale or have lost their crispness. Fix: Always start with a fresh, unopened sleeve of Ritz crackers to ensure a satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Mistake: Overheating the caramel, causing it to become grainy or hard. Fix: Melt the caramels with cream over low heat, stirring constantly until just smooth and pourable.
• Mistake: Applying caramel that is too thick, making the cookies difficult to bite. Fix: Thin the melted caramel slightly with extra cream for a layer that sets firmly but isn’t overly chewy.
• Mistake: Rushing the chocolate coating, resulting in a streaky or thick shell. Fix: Temper your chocolate or use high-quality melting wafers and allow the cookies to set completely on a parchment-lined tray.
• Mistake: Skipping the salt sprinkle, leaving the flavor profile one-dimensional. Fix: A light flake salt garnish is essential to balance the sweet caramel and rich chocolate perfectly.
• Mistake: Storing the finished cookies while they are still warm, creating condensation. Fix: Let Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies set fully at cool room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.
• Mistake: Using a microwave to melt caramels without careful monitoring. Fix: Heat in short 15-second bursts, stirring between each, to prevent scorching and ensure even melting.
• Mistake: Dipping warm caramel-coated crackers into chocolate, which causes melting. Fix: Chill the caramel-covered crackers for 10-15 minutes to set the layer before proceeding with chocolate.

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 caramel may firm up when chilled.
• 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: To refresh the texture, place cookies on a baking sheet in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 3-5 minutes, just until the chocolate softens. This is below the food-safe temperature for perishables, so only reheat refrigerated cookies you plan to eat immediately.

Always ensure the chocolate coating is fully set before stacking or storing to prevent sticking. For best quality, enjoy your Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies at room temperature.

Conclusion

These easy Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies are the perfect sweet and salty treat. If you love simple no-bake desserts, you might also enjoy our Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies 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?

While Ritz crackers are recommended for their buttery flavor and perfect texture, you can use other similar crackers. The key is a plain, buttery, and slightly salty cracker to balance the sweet caramel and chocolate in these Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies.

How should I store Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies?

Store these cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Placing parchment paper between layers helps prevent sticking and keeps your Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies fresh.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cookies a day in advance. For best results, wait to dip them in chocolate until just before serving to maintain a crisp texture and glossy finish on your Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies.