Caramel Crackers
Caramel Crackers offer a delightful combination of crispy Ritz Bits crackers, crunchy peanuts, and rich caramel, all baked to perfection. This sweet, salty treat is perfect for sharing at parties, movie nights, or as a satisfying snack. Its easy preparation makes it a favorite among all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Combine crackers and nuts in a greased large shallow baking pan.
- In a saucepan, bring butter, sugar, and corn syrup to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat; add vanilla extract and baking soda.
- Pour caramel mixture over crackers and nuts. Stir well.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Pour onto waxed paper and break apart; allow to cool.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using salted peanuts for a sweet and salty combination. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute with crushed pretzels or additional crackers. Ensure that your baking pan is adequately greased to prevent sticking. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel crackers make for a delightful snack on their own or can be served alongside a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider packaging them as gifts for friends or family during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the caramel crackers to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can last for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a single layer, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Crackers contains roughly 364 calories, with 3g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 678mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cracker for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of crackers such as saltines or oyster crackers. Just ensure they are similar in size and texture to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?
To prevent the caramel from becoming overly hard, ensure you do not exceed the baking time. Stirring every 15 minutes helps distribute the heat evenly, yielding a chewy texture rather than a hard one.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute butter with vegan margarine and choose plant-based granulated sugar. You can also use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).