Salted Caramel Peanut Ritz Crackers – The Sweet-Salty Snack That Disappears Fast
Some treats don’t wait for a holiday. They show up when you need something sweet, a little salty, and completely addictive. Salted Caramel Peanut Ritz Crackers are exactly that kind of snack.
Buttery Ritz crackers, crunchy peanuts, and a glossy layer of caramel finished with just the right touch of salt — they taste like something you’d find in a bakery gift box, yet they’re made with pantry staples and almost no effort. One bite gives you crunch, sweetness, salt, and nostalgia all at once.
Make them once, and people will start asking for “those crackers” every time you show up.
Salted Caramel Peanut Ritz Crackers
Ingredients
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1 sleeve Ritz crackers
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1 cup salted peanuts (or lightly salted)
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1 cup brown sugar
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½ cup butter
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¼ cup heavy cream (or milk)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Optional: flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
1) Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2) Arrange
Place Ritz crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Sprinkle peanuts evenly over the crackers.
3) Make the Caramel
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar.
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Stir constantly until bubbling.
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Let simmer 2–3 minutes, then stir in cream and vanilla.
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Remove from heat.
4) Pour & Bake
Spoon caramel over the crackers and peanuts, spreading gently.
Bake 8–10 minutes, until bubbly.
5) Cool
Remove from oven and sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt if desired.
Let cool completely before breaking apart.
Why This Recipe Works
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Buttery crackers balance the sweetness
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Peanuts add crunch and salt
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Caramel sets into a glossy candy layer
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Short bake time prevents bitterness
It’s candy, cracker, and snack mix all in one.
Tips for Perfect Caramel Crackers
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Don’t overcook the caramel — short simmer keeps it smooth
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Use parchment so nothing sticks
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Let them cool fully before separating
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Add extra peanuts if you like more crunch
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For chocolate lovers: drizzle melted chocolate after cooling
Ways to Serve Them
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Snack trays and dessert boards
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Holiday gift bags
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Movie-night treat
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Potlucks and parties
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Crumbled over ice cream
FAQ – Salted Caramel Peanut Ritz Crackers
Can I use unsalted peanuts?
Yes — just add a pinch more salt or finish with flaky sea salt.
How do I store them?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 4–5 days.
Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze in a sealed container up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature.
Why is my caramel grainy?
It was cooked too long or at too high heat. Keep it gently bubbling and stir constantly.
