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Crispy Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats

crispy caramel peanut ritz cracker treats - featured image

A quick and easy sweet and salty snack combining buttery Ritz crackers, roasted peanuts, and a light, airy caramel coating for a crispy, addictive treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • About 40 Ritz Crackers
  • 1 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted or lightly salted)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • A pinch of salt
  • Optional: Sea salt flakes for sprinkling
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped chocolate for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Measure all ingredients. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange Ritz crackers and roasted peanuts in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the caramel: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until melted and gently boiling, about 7-9 minutes, until golden amber and slightly thickened.
  3. Remove from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. The mixture will bubble and become frothy.
  4. Pour the hot caramel over the crackers and peanuts. Gently fold to coat evenly without breaking crackers.
  5. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet to about 1/2-inch thickness. Sprinkle sea salt flakes if desired.
  6. Let cool completely at room temperature until firm and crisp, about 15-20 minutes.
  7. Cut into bars or squares and serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

Use medium heat and stir constantly to avoid burning caramel. Adding baking soda at the end creates a light, airy texture. Fold caramel gently with crackers to keep them intact. Cool at room temperature to maintain crispness. Optional chocolate drizzle and sea salt flakes add extra flavor. For gluten-free, substitute crackers with sturdy gluten-free crackers.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel, peanut, Ritz crackers, sweet and salty, snack, easy recipe, caramel treats, crunchy snack