If you’re craving something sweet and salty with a crunchy texture, these Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are just the thing! They combine the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers, the smooth richness of homemade caramel, and the nutty goodness of peanuts to create a dessert that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for snacking, parties, or even just treating yourself, these bites are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started, this is a no-bake recipe that anyone can master!
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
• 1-2 sleeves Ritz crackers
Directions
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer on the prepared sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap.
2. Make the Caramel: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons of milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Continue to stir until the mixture comes to a boil, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
3. Thicken the Caramel: Once the mixture reaches a boil, lower the heat and allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently until the caramel thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
4. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This will add a rich depth of flavor to your caramel.
5. Assemble the Treats: Carefully pour or spoon the hot caramel mixture over the Ritz crackers on the baking sheet. Spread it evenly across the crackers, ensuring each one is coated.
6. Add the Peanuts: Sprinkle the roughly chopped peanuts on top of the caramel layer while it’s still warm. Press the peanuts down lightly to ensure they stick to the caramel.
7. Cool and Set: Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the tray in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.
8. Serve: Once the treats have cooled and the caramel has set, break or cut them into bite-sized pieces. Serve and enjoy!
Additional Information
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 20 servings
• Calories per Serving: 150 kcal
Tips
• Use a Candy Thermometer: If you’re worried about overcooking or undercooking the caramel, you can use a candy thermometer. Aim for the caramel to reach a temperature of around 230°F (110°C) for a perfect consistency.
• Substitute Peanuts: If you’re not a fan of peanuts or have allergies, you can substitute them with other nuts such as almonds, cashews, or pecans. Alternatively, use crushed pretzels for an extra crunch.
• Add Chocolate: For an extra layer of indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cooled treats or dip the finished pieces into chocolate before serving.
Benefits
• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of total time, this recipe is perfect for those who want a quick dessert or snack without spending hours in the kitchen.
• No Baking Required: Since these treats don’t require an oven, they’re ideal for hot days when you don’t want to heat up your kitchen.
• Balanced Flavor Profile: The salty-sweet combination of caramel, peanuts, and Ritz crackers offers a balanced flavor that appeals to a wide range of taste buds.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These treats are great for parties, gatherings, or as gifts because they’re easy to transport and loved by both kids and adults.
FAQs
1. Can I use unsweetened condensed milk?No, sweetened condensed milk is essential for achieving the rich, sweet caramel flavor. Unsweetened condensed milk (or evaporated milk) will not provide the same sweetness or texture.
2. How do I store these treats?Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate them if you prefer a firmer texture, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
3. Can I freeze Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats?Yes, these treats freeze well! Simply wrap them individually in parchment paper and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
4. Can I use a different type of cracker?While Ritz crackers offer a buttery, slightly salty base that pairs perfectly with the caramel, you can experiment with other types of crackers. Saltines or graham crackers can be used as a substitute, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly.
Conclusion
Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are the perfect combination of salty, sweet, and crunchy. They’re easy to prepare, making them a great option for beginner bakers or anyone in need of a quick treat. Whether you’re whipping these up for a gathering or simply craving something sweet and satisfying, these treats are sure to hit the spot. With their delightful mix of caramel, peanuts, and crackers, they’re bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the simple pleasure of creating a delicious homemade treat!
