Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- Prepare: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange Ritz crackers in a single layer on the sheet to have them ready for topping.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to enhance the caramel flavor.
- 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.
- 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
