If you're looking for a simple yet delicious treat that combines the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, look no further than Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats! These no-bake delights are quick and easy to make, making them an ideal go-to snack for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering, looking for a fun activity to do with kids, or just craving a sweet treat, these caramel peanut Ritz cracker treats will become a favorite.

Photo bypinterest

This recipe uses just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have on hand, but the result is an impressive dessert or snack that tastes like it took much more effort than it did. The crisp and buttery Ritz crackers serve as the perfect base for layers of creamy caramel, smooth peanut butter, and decadent chocolate. Topped with crunchy peanuts and a sprinkle of sea salt, these treats offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will leave you reaching for more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treat recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Quick and Easy: With no need for baking, this recipe can be whipped up in just a matter of minutes, making it a perfect last-minute treat.
• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of common pantry items to create these delicious treats.
• Customizable: While the basic recipe is perfect as is, you can get creative with add-ins or toppings to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you're making these for a party, holiday gathering, or just a family snack, everyone will love the combination of caramel, peanut butter, and chocolate.
• Kid-Friendly: This no-bake recipe is simple enough for little ones to help out, making it a fun family activity.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storage: Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer a softer texture, you can store them at room temperature for a few days, but the chocolate might get a little melty in warmer temperatures.

Serving: These treats are perfect for sharing at parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a simple snack. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a great afternoon pick-me-up.

Photo bypinterest

Fun Facts About Ritz Crackers

Ritz crackers were first introduced in 1934 by Nabisco and were marketed as a luxurious snack during the Great Depression. Their buttery, flaky texture and slightly salty flavor made them an instant hit, and they've been a beloved snack ever since. Ritz crackers are versatile and can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from savory appetizers to sweet desserts like these caramel peanut treats.

Why This Recipe Works

This Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats recipe works so well because it combines all the elements of a great snack—sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy. The Ritz crackers provide the perfect foundation for the rich caramel and peanut butter layers, while the chocolate coating ties everything together. Plus, the addition of chopped peanuts and a sprinkle of sea salt adds both texture and flavor, making these treats completely irresistible.

Whether you're a fan of peanut butter, caramel, or chocolate, this recipe has something for everyone. And best of all, it's quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy these treats whenever the craving strikes!

Photo bypinterest

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats

Ingredients:

• 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers): These buttery crackers provide the perfect base for the treats, adding a crisp texture and savory flavor that balances the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
• 1 cup caramel sauce: Use your favorite store-bought caramel sauce or make your own from scratch. The rich and gooey caramel adds sweetness and helps bind the layers together.
• ½ cup peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter adds a nutty flavor that complements the caramel and chocolate. You can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer more texture.
• ½ cup chopped peanuts: These are added to give a delightful crunch and extra peanut flavor. You can also substitute other nuts like almonds or pecans if you prefer.
• ½ cup chocolate chips: Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work well for this recipe. The melted chocolate adds a luscious layer of sweetness to the treats.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional): Adding coconut oil to the melted chocolate helps it become smooth and shiny, making it easier to spread over the treats.
• Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling): A light sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavors by adding a salty contrast to the sweet ingredients.

Instructions for Making Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats

1. Prepare the Ritz crackers: Lay the Ritz crackers out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should have about 30 crackers.
2. Spread the peanut butter: Using a butter knife or small spatula, spread a layer of peanut butter on each Ritz cracker. Be generous with the peanut butter to ensure a creamy, nutty flavor in each bite.
3. Add the caramel: Drizzle a spoonful of caramel sauce over the peanut butter layer. You want enough caramel to cover the peanut butter without it dripping too much off the sides.
4. Top with another Ritz cracker: Place a second Ritz cracker on top of each peanut butter-caramel-coated cracker to create a "sandwich." Press down gently to secure the layers together.
5. Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
6. Coat the treats in chocolate: Using a spoon, drizzle the melted chocolate over each Ritz cracker sandwich, ensuring that the top and sides are coated evenly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the top of each treat. Press down gently to help the peanuts adhere to the chocolate.
8. Add a sprinkle of sea salt: For an extra burst of flavor, lightly sprinkle sea salt over the chocolate and peanut-covered treats. This step is optional but highly recommended for balancing the sweetness.
9. Chill the treats: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and the treats are firm.
10. Serve and enjoy: Once the chocolate has hardened, your Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are ready to enjoy! Serve them chilled or at room temperature for a delicious snack.

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature peanut butter: It's easier to spread creamy peanut butter that's at room temperature. If your peanut butter is cold and stiff, microwave it for about 10 seconds to soften it up.
• Be careful with the caramel: Caramel can be sticky and messy, so work carefully when drizzling it over the crackers. If it's too runny, let it cool slightly to thicken before using.
• Customize the toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings. Crushed pretzels, toffee bits, or even mini M&Ms would be fun additions to these treats.

Make it gluten-free: If you're serving guests with dietary restrictions, look for gluten-free crackers to use in this recipe.