Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats

Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats

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Hello, snack enthusiasts! If you’re craving a salty-sweet treat that’s quick to make and utterly satisfying, these Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are for you. Combining creamy caramel, crunchy peanuts, and buttery Ritz crackers, these bite-sized goodies are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just a fun snack to keep on hand. Let’s dive in and make these irresistible treats!

Introduction

These Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats bring together the best of salty, sweet, and nutty flavors in each bite. The rich caramel-peanut mixture is spooned over Ritz crackers for a balanced snack that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Plus, with only a few simple ingredients, they come together quickly, making them ideal for last-minute desserts or potluck snacks.

Ingredients

To make these easy Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats, you’ll need:

  • 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
  • 1-2 sleeves of Ritz crackers (enough to cover your cookie sheet)

Optional Tips:

  • Swap the peanuts with pecans, almonds, or cashews for a different nutty flavor.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra decadent twist!

How to Make Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats

Follow these steps to create your own delicious Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats:

  1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
  • Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • Lay out the Ritz crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they’re evenly spaced.
  1. Make the Caramel-Peanut Mixture:
  • In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar.
  • Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 7-8 minutes, until the mixture thickens and turns a light caramel color.
  • Lower the heat, then whisk in the milk, vanilla extract, and chopped peanuts. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes to fully incorporate the flavors. Remove the pan from heat once the mixture has thickened slightly.
  1. Assemble the Treats:
  • Using a cookie scoop or small spoon, carefully spoon a dollop of the caramel-peanut mixture onto each Ritz cracker.
  • Make sure each cracker is evenly coated, so every bite has a balanced mix of caramel and peanuts.
  1. Cool and Store:
  • Allow the treats to cool completely on the baking sheet to set the caramel. This may take about 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
  • Once cooled, store the treats in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent the caramel from becoming too sticky.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a firmer caramel, chill the treats in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips

  • Keep Stirring the Caramel: When cooking the caramel mixture, stir continuously to prevent burning or sticking to the pan.
  • Uniform Scooping: Use a cookie scoop to keep each treat the same size, which will make them easier to store and serve.

Serving Suggestions

These Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are fantastic on their own, but you can make them extra special with a few added touches:

  • Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate on top for a decorative and delicious look.
  • Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the caramel for an enhanced sweet-and-salty flavor.
  • Pair them with hot coffee or tea for a cozy snack-time treat.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 180 kcal per treat | Servings: 24 treats (approximately)

Nutritional Information (per treat)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 12mg
  • Sodium: 105mg
  • Potassium: 85mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 13g
  • Vitamin A: 4% DV
  • Calcium: 6% DV
  • Iron: 2% DV

Storage and Leftovers

  • Store at Room Temperature: Keep the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: If you’d like to keep them longer, store in the fridge for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Creative Leftover Idea: Crumble any leftover treats over vanilla ice cream for a crunchy, caramel-loaded dessert topping!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these treats in advance?
A: Absolutely! These treats are easy to make ahead of time and store well in an airtight container for several days, making them perfect for prepping ahead.

Q: What if I don’t have a cookie scoop?
A: A small spoon will work just fine for scooping the caramel-peanut mixture onto each cracker. Just try to keep the amount consistent for each treat.

Q: Can I use other types of crackers?
A: Yes, any sturdy, buttery cracker can work, but Ritz crackers add a signature flavor and texture that pairs wonderfully with the caramel.

For more tasty and easy-to-make snacks, check out:

  • Salted Caramel Pretzel Bites
  • Chocolate-Dipped Peanut Butter Crackers
  • Homemade Peanut Brittle

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making (and eating!) these Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats. With their combination of caramel sweetness, peanut crunch, and buttery cracker base, they’re sure to become a favorite. Share your thoughts and any fun variations you try. Enjoy your snack time! 🥜🍶😋

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