Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats
Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are the perfect sweet-and-salty dessert that comes together with simple pantry ingredients and no fancy equipment. Buttery Ritz crackers are layered with rich caramel and crunchy peanuts, then baked just long enough to melt into a gooey, irresistible treat. They’re ideal for holidays, parties, or when you want a quick dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.These treats are especially loved because they’re budget-friendly, beginner-proof, and incredibly addictive—one bite and it’s hard to stop!
Prep time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes
Cooling time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients
1 box Ritz crackers (about 40–48 crackers)
1 cup soft caramels (wrapped caramels, unwrapped)
2 tbsp milk or cream
½–¾ cup roasted peanuts, chopped
1 cup chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet, optional)
1 tbsp butter (optional, for richer caramel)
Instructions
Prepare the Pan (5 minutes)
Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil
Arrange Ritz crackers in a single layer, top side up
Make the Caramel (5 minutes)
In a saucepan over low heat, combine:
Caramels
Milk
Butter (if using)
Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Treats (5 minutes)
Spoon about 1–1½ teaspoons of melted caramel onto each cracker
Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top, pressing lightly so they stick
Bake (10–12 minutes)
Place tray in the oven
Bake until the caramel is bubbly and slightly spread
Do not overbake—the caramel should remain soft and chewy.
Optional Chocolate Topping
Immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot caramel
Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then spread gently with a spoon
Cool & Set (20 minutes)
Allow treats to cool completely at room temperature
Caramel will firm up as it cools
Serving & Storage
Serve once fully set
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days
Can be refrigerated for firmer texture
Tips for Best Results
Use low heat to prevent caramel from burning
Salted peanuts enhance the sweet-salty flavor
For festive looks, drizzle with white chocolate
Final Thoughts
Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are the kind of dessert everyone asks for the recipe of. Crunchy, gooey, sweet, and salty—all in one bite—and ready in under an hour. Perfect for sharing… or keeping all to yourself!