Salted Caramel Peanut Ritz Crackers
Sweet, salty, crunchy, and dangerously addictive—Salted Caramel Peanut Ritz Crackers are the ultimate no-fuss treat. Buttery Ritz crackers sandwich creamy peanut butter, then get drenched in rich caramel and finished with a sprinkle of flaky salt. They’re perfect for holidays, gifting, parties, or when you need a quick dessert that wows with minimal effort.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Ingredients (Makes about 24 sandwich crackers)
48 Ritz crackers
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
½ cup unsalted butter
2 tablespoons milk or cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup roasted peanuts, finely chopped
Flaky sea salt (to taste)
Optional Extras
Melted chocolate for drizzling
Mini chocolate chips
Crushed pretzels for extra crunch
Instructions
1. Make the Cracker Sandwiches
Spread about 1 teaspoon peanut butter onto the flat side of one Ritz cracker.
Top with another cracker to form a sandwich.
Repeat with remaining crackers and set aside.
2. Prepare the Caramel
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter and brown sugar.
Stir continuously until melted and bubbling.
Add milk and bring to a gentle boil.
Boil for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Assemble
Arrange cracker sandwiches snugly in a parchment-lined baking dish (9×13 works well).
Pour the hot caramel evenly over the crackers, making sure all are coated.
Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top.
4. Bake
Bake at 180°C / 350°F for 8–10 minutes, until caramel is bubbly.
5. Finish with Salt
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Let cool completely so the caramel sets.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use room-temperature peanut butter for easy spreading
- Don’t overbake—the caramel will harden as it cools
- Chop peanuts finely so they stick well
- Add salt while caramel is hot for best adhesion
Fun Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate on top
- Extra Salty Crunch: Mix peanuts with crushed pretzels
- Spicy Sweet: Add a pinch of cayenne to the caramel
- Holiday Version: Sprinkle festive sprinkles before cooling
Storage & Gifting
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
- Great for cookie boxes and edible gifts
- Separate layers with parchment paper
Final Thoughts
These Salted Caramel Peanut Ritz Crackers are proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable treats. Sweet caramel, salty crackers, nutty crunch—every bite hits just right.