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 come together quickly and are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a simple indulgence.

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: Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer on the sheet.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and milk. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to bubble.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat slightly and keep stirring for 4 to 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. Immediately sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the caramel.
6. Step 6: Let the treats set at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes or refrigerate them until firm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try using roasted peanuts or sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before the caramel sets.
• If you prefer a softer caramel, reduce the cooking time slightly to keep it less thick.
• Swap peanuts for other nuts like almonds or pecans to change the texture and taste.

Storage

Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To enjoy, let refrigerated treats come to room temperature or warm slightly for softer caramel before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted or unsalted peanuts?

Both salted and unsalted peanuts work well. Salted peanuts add a savory contrast to the sweet caramel, while unsalted let the caramel shine more.

What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?

You can use any buttery, flaky cracker or even sturdy cookies that hold up well under the caramel topping.

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.6 from 112 reviews

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats combine the buttery, sweet richness of homemade caramel with the crunchy, salty crunch of Ritz crackers and chopped peanuts. This no-bake dessert is easy to make and perfect for parties, snacks, or anytime a sweet and salty treat is desired.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40-55 minutes
• Yield: About 24–30 treats depending on cracker size and caramel amount 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Mixture

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

Toppings

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

Instructions

1. Prepare: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer to create the base for the treats.
2. Make Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and milk. Stir continuously to combine all ingredients. Allow the mixture to bubble, then reduce the heat slightly and continue stirring for 4 to 5 minutes until the caramel thickens and turns a golden color, indicating it is ready.
3. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to incorporate the flavor into the caramel.
4. Assemble: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of warm caramel onto each Ritz cracker. Immediately sprinkle the roughly chopped peanuts generously over the caramel so they stick as it cools.
5. Set: Let the assembled treats sit at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes to allow the caramel to firm up. Alternatively, refrigerate until the caramel is set and treats are firm to the touch. Once firm, enjoy these delicious sweet and salty snacks.

Notes

• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
• You can use salted or unsalted peanuts based on your preference for saltiness.
• Ensure to stir the caramel continuously to prevent burning or scorching.
• Letting the treats set in the refrigerator speeds up the firming process.
• This recipe does not require baking, making it a quick and simple dessert option.

Keywords: caramel treats, peanut snacks, Ritz crackers dessert, no bake caramel recipe, sweet and salty snacks