Desserts

Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Name: Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Ritz crackers; Caramel candies; Chocolate chips; Sea salt

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Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are the perfect festive treat that combines simplicity and delightful flavors. These sweet and salty cookies are a favorite among the holiday crowd, thanks to their delightful crunch and gooey caramel filling. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch that will impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that transforms simple Ritz crackers into a holiday sensation!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 130
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 100mg

Why Make This Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are not just delicious; they also bring a touch of nostalgia to the holiday season. The combination of crunchy crackers, gooey caramel, and silky chocolate creates a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on your palate. These cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few minutes in the oven and minimal hands-on time. Plus, they’re perfect for any gathering, from holiday parties to cozy nights in. They are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

How to Make Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Making these festive cookies is as simple as pie! Follow the steps below, and you’ll have your cookies ready in no time.

Ingredients:

Ritz crackers
Caramel candies
Chocolate chips
Sea salt

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential as it ensures your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Arrangement

Spread Ritz crackers evenly on a baking sheet. Make sure they are laid flat so they bake uniformly.

Step 3: Melting

Place a caramel candy on each cracker. This will melt into a delightful gooey center, creating a delicious sandwich later.

Step 4: Baking

Bake for 5-6 minutes until the caramel is soft and slightly bubbling. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Sandwiching

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and quickly press another cracker on top of each melted caramel-covered cracker to create a sandwich.

Step 6: Drizzling

Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of each sandwich for added sweetness and flair.

Step 7: Garnishing

Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness, then let the cookies cool before serving. This allows the chocolate to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Serve these cookies on a festive platter at holiday gatherings, or pack them in treat bags for friends and family. They make great last-minute gifts! Pair them with a warm mug of hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

How to Store Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Just be aware that refrigeration might change the texture, so they are best enjoyed at room temperature.

Expert Tips for Perfect Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Watch the Bake Time: Ovens vary; keep an eye on the caramel to prevent it from hardening too much.
Add Extra Flavor: For a twist, consider using flavored chocolate chips like peppermint or dark chocolate.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the sandwiches ahead of time and add the chocolate drizzle just before serving for a more polished look.

Delicious Variations

Nutty Delight: Add crushed nuts to the top of your melted chocolate for an extra crunch.
Seasonal Spices: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into your melted chocolate for a spiced flavor.
Peanut Butter Twist: Swap out half of the chocolate chips for peanut butter chips for a delicious nutty flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes! While Ritz crackers are classic for this recipe, feel free to use any buttery cracker of your choice.
What if I can’t find caramel candies?
You can substitute with homemade caramel sauce; just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape.
How can I melt the chocolate chips?
You can melt them in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring in between, until smooth.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Just ensure they are completely cooled, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
What’s the best way to drizzle chocolate?
Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off for precise drizzling.

Conclusion

Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies perfectly capture the warmth and joy of the holiday season. With their easy preparation and delightful taste, they make an excellent addition to any festive gathering. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this sweet and salty homemade delight—everyone will be asking for seconds! So gather your ingredients and start baking; these cookies are sure to become a cherished holiday tradition!