These salted caramel peanut Ritz crackers are proof that the simplest recipes are often the most unforgettable. With just three everyday ingredients and minimal effort, you get a treat that balances sweet, salty, crunchy, and rich in every bite. Perfect for parties, last-minute desserts, or an indulgent snack, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with almost no work.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is incredibly easy and beginner-friendly, making it ideal for busy days or spontaneous cravings. It requires no baking skills, no fancy equipment, and only a short amount of time. The contrast between the buttery crackers, gooey caramel, and crunchy peanuts creates a texture and flavor combination that feels far more luxurious than the effort involved. It’s also highly adaptable and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Unwrap all the caramel candies and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until the caramels are fully melted and smooth.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer, flat side up.
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel onto the center of each cracker, spreading slightly but keeping it mostly centered.
Immediately sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the warm caramel, gently pressing them in so they adhere.
Allow the crackers to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes, or place them in the refrigerator for 5 minutes until the caramel sets.
Once set, they are ready to serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 20 servings (2 crackers per serving)
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Setting time: 5 to 10 minutes
Total time: 15 to 20 minutes
Variations
You can use unsalted peanuts if you prefer a milder salty contrast and finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt. Mini pretzels can replace Ritz crackers for an extra crunch. Chopped almonds or cashews also work well if peanuts are not preferred. For a deeper flavor, lightly toast the nuts before using them.
Storage/Reheating
Store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to 7 days. These crackers do not require reheating; if chilled, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Do I need to bake these crackers?
No baking is required; the caramel sets on its own.
Can I use caramel sauce instead of candies?
Caramel candies are recommended because they set firmly, while sauce may remain too soft.
What type of peanuts work best?
Roasted salted peanuts provide the best balance of flavor and texture.
Can I freeze them?
Freezing is not recommended as the caramel texture may change when thawed.
Are these very sweet?
They are balanced by the saltiness of the crackers and peanuts, making them pleasantly sweet rather than overpowering.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes, with supervision during the melting of caramel, this is a kid-friendly recipe.
How do I keep the caramel from hardening too fast?
Work quickly and keep the caramel warm by reheating briefly if needed.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, this recipe scales very easily for larger batches.
What occasions are these best for?
They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, holiday trays, or quick homemade gifts.
Conclusion
Salted caramel peanut Ritz crackers are a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create something truly memorable. Quick to prepare, endlessly satisfying, and guaranteed to disappear fast, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your go-to snack collection. Make a batch once, and it will quickly become a favorite you return to again and again.
These 3-ingredient salted caramel peanut Ritz crackers are sweet, salty, crunchy, and incredibly addictive. Made with buttery crackers, melted caramels, and chopped peanuts, they’re an effortless treat that delivers big flavor with minimal work.
Ingredients
40 Ritz crackers
200 grams soft caramel candies
120 grams roasted salted peanuts, roughly chopped
Instructions
Unwrap caramel candies and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange Ritz crackers in a single layer, flat side up.
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel onto each cracker, spreading slightly.
Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the caramel and press gently to help them stick.
Let cool at room temperature for 10 minutes or refrigerate for 5 minutes until set.
Serve once caramel has firmed.
Notes
Use unsalted peanuts and add a sprinkle of sea salt for a milder twist.
Try using mini pretzels or different nuts like almonds or cashews for variety.
Work quickly to prevent caramel from hardening; reheat if necessary.
Let crackers return to room temp if stored in the fridge before serving.
Great for party platters, snack trays, or quick homemade gifts.
