Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors. These easy-to-make snacks are perfect for parties or a quick homemade treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup roughly chopped peanuts (salted or unsalted)
• 1–2 sleeves Ritz crackers

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and milk. Stir continuously until the mixture bubbles.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat slightly and continue stirring for 4–5 minutes until the caramel thickens and turns a golden color.
4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Step 5: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the warm caramel onto each Ritz cracker.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the caramel while it is still warm.
7. Step 7: Let the treats sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until set, or refrigerate until firm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, toast the peanuts lightly before chopping.
• Use salted peanuts for a nice contrast, or unsalted if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel for a salted caramel twist.
• Swap out peanuts for chopped pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.

Storage

Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. If refrigerated, allow treats to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, while Ritz crackers are classic here, you can substitute with similar buttery or salty crackers, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

What if my caramel doesn’t thicken properly?

If the caramel remains too runny, continue cooking it over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Be careful not to burn it by keeping the heat moderate.

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 90 reviews

These Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are a delightful no-bake snack featuring crispy Ritz crackers topped with a rich homemade caramel sauce and crunchy chopped peanuts. Sweet, buttery, and perfectly crunchy, they make an irresistible treat for any occasion.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes
• Yield: About 2 dozen treats 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Sauce Ingredients

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Assembly Ingredients

• 1 cup roughly chopped peanuts (salted or unsalted)
• 1–2 sleeves Ritz crackers

Instructions

1. Prepare: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange Ritz crackers in a single layer on the sheet to have them ready for topping.
2. Make Caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and milk. Stir continuously as the mixture heats until it comes to a gentle bubble.
3. Thicken Caramel: Reduce the heat slightly and continue stirring the caramel mixture for 4–5 minutes, until it thickens and turns a golden color, indicating it has reached the right consistency.
4. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to enhance the caramel flavor.
5. Assemble Treats: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the warm caramel onto each Ritz cracker. While the caramel is still warm and sticky, sprinkle the chopped peanuts evenly over the top so they adhere well.
6. Set: Let the caramel peanut Ritz cracker treats sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes to firm up. Alternatively, refrigerate them until the caramel is set and firm, ensuring easy handling and perfect texture.

Notes

• You can use either salted or unsalted peanuts based on your preference; if using unsalted, consider sprinkling a tiny bit of salt on top for balance.
• Ensure continuous stirring while making caramel to prevent burning and achieve smooth texture.
• Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated to maintain freshness.
• For a twist, try toasting the peanuts lightly before chopping for enhanced flavor.

Keywords: Caramel peanut treats, Ritz cracker snacks, no bake caramel snacks, easy party treats, quick caramel recipe