Bright, crunchy, and dressed up for the holidays, these Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are an easy, crowd-pleasing treat you can make in under an hour.
introduction
These festive little sandwiches combine salty Ritz crackers, gooey caramel, and white chocolate for a sweet-and-salty party snack that’s perfect for cookie exchanges or holiday platters. For a classic buttery cookie to serve alongside these bites, try the spritz Christmas cookies recipe for a contrasting texture and flavor.
why make this recipe
- Fast and simple: No baking required, mainly assembly and dipping.
- Kid-friendly: Little hands can help build and decorate.
- Portable and giftable: Stack them in a tin or cellophane bag for easy gifting.
- Flavor balance: Salted crackers, caramel richness, and sweet white chocolate create a pleasing mix.
how to make Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies | Easy Holiday Treats
Ingredients :
24 Ritz crackers, 1/2 cup caramel sauce (or melted caramel candies), 1 cup white chocolate chips (or white candy melts), 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, Red, white, and green festive sprinkles
Directions :
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Caramel-Filled Sandwiches
Spread about 1/2 teaspoon of caramel sauce onto 12 Ritz crackers, then top with the remaining 12 crackers to form sandwiches.
Step 3: Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips (or melts) and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Microwave in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and pourable.
Step 4: Coat the Cookies in White Chocolate
Using tongs or a fork, dip each caramel sandwich into the melted white chocolate, turning to coat completely. Allow excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl.
Step 5: Decorate with Sprinkles
Place each coated cookie on the prepared sheet and sprinkle immediately with red, white, and green festive sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.
Step 6: Let the Cookies Set
Allow the cookies to sit at room temperature until the chocolate firms, or speed up the process by chilling them in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes.
how to serve Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies | Easy Holiday Treats
Arrange on a festive platter, stack in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for gifting, or include them on a dessert board alongside cookies and nuts. They pair well with hot cocoa, coffee, or a lightly spiced tea.
how to store Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies | Easy Holiday Treats
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage (up to 2 weeks), refrigerate in a single layer separated by parchment paper. Bring back to room temperature before serving if chilled.
tips to make Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies | Easy Holiday Treats
- Use room-temperature caramel sauce for easier spreading; melted caramels should be slightly cooled so they don’t melt the crackers.
- If white chocolate seizes, add a tiny bit more oil and gently reheat in short bursts.
- Work quickly when dipping so the caramel doesn’t ooze out too much.
- For cleaner dipping, use a fork to lift cookies and tap the fork on the bowl edge to remove excess chocolate.
variation (if any)
- Chocolate Drizzle: Swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle finely chopped toasted pecans or almonds on top in place of or alongside sprinkles.
- Salted Caramel: Finish with a light dusting of flaky sea salt for an upscale sweet-and-salty bite.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes — substitute gluten-free round crackers in place of Ritz and ensure your caramel and chocolate are labeled gluten-free.
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel candies?
A: Absolutely. Melt caramels with a teaspoon of cream or milk until spreadable, and allow to cool slightly before assembling.
Q: Will the crackers get soggy?
A: If stored airtight and eaten within a few days, the crackers retain their crunch. Avoid excessive moisture and long refrigeration if crispness is a priority.
Conclusion
These Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are a quick holiday treat that’s easy to customize and share. For another riff on salted caramel and crackers, see this related recipe: Ritz Cracker Cookies | Greens & Chocolate.
Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set aside.
- Spread about 1/2 teaspoon of caramel sauce onto 12 Ritz crackers, then top with the remaining 12 crackers to form sandwiches.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips (or melts) and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Microwave in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and pourable.
- Using tongs or a fork, dip each caramel sandwich into the melted white chocolate, turning to coat completely. Allow excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl.
- Place each coated cookie on the prepared sheet and sprinkle immediately with red, white, and green festive sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.
- Allow the cookies to sit at room temperature until the chocolate firms, or speed up the process by chilling them in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes.
