These Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are a fun and easy treat! With crunchy crackers, sweet caramel, and a sprinkle of salt, each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Honestly, I can’t resist these little bites. They’re perfect for sharing or keeping to yourself—no judgment here! 😉 Just pop them in your mouth for a quick sweet fix, and you’ll be hooked!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crackers: Buttery crackers like Ritz add a delightful crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use whole-grain or gluten-free crackers. Just make sure they have a similar texture to hold the caramel well!
Brown Sugar: This adds richness and a deep flavor. You can substitute with light brown sugar if you prefer a milder taste, or use coconut sugar for a less refined alternative. Both will give you sweetness!
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, margarine or coconut oil can work well, though it may slightly change the flavor.
Corn Syrup: This helps to prevent the caramel from crystalizing. If you don’t have it, use honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that they will change the flavor a bit.
Heavy Cream: This gives the caramel a lovely creaminess. If you’re watching your calories, you can use half-and-half or even dairy-free cream for a lighter option.
How Do I Make Perfect Caramel without Burning It?
Making caramel can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can get it right every time! The secret is patience and attention as it cooks.
- Use a medium saucepan to ensure even heat distribution. Avoid using high heat, as it can burn the sugar quickly.
- Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar is dissolved, then stop stirring as it comes to a boil.
- Watch it closely! Once it starts bubbling, keep an eye on the time. Aim for 3-5 minutes of boiling for the right consistency.
- Remove from the heat immediately once it thickens. Stirring in the heavy cream and vanilla off the heat helps prevent it from cooking further.
How to Make Salted Caramel Cracker Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 sleeve round buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt or flaky salt (plus extra for topping)
Time Needed:
This delicious treat will take you about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 10-15 minutes cooking time, plus some cooling time in the fridge. Overall, you’ll want to budget around an hour for everything—most of which is just waiting for the bites to set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. It’s a great way to make cleanup super easy, too!
2. Arrange the Crackers:
Lay out the round buttery crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet. Try to keep some space between them to ensure the caramel can flow and coat each cracker evenly.
3. Make the Caramel Mixture:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, stir together the brown sugar, unsalted butter, and corn syrup. Keep stirring until the butter has melted completely and the mixture starts to gently boil. This is where the magic begins!
4. Boil for Perfect Caramel:
Allow the mixture to boil without stirring for about 3 to 5 minutes. Watch it closely; you want it to thicken slightly but not burn. As soon as it’s ready, take it off the heat!
5. Add Cream and Flavor:
Gently stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and sea salt until everything is well combined and smooth. This is what gives the caramel a lovely creamy texture!
6. Top the Crackers with Caramel:
Using a spoon or a small ladle, drizzle the warm caramel mixture generously over each cracker. Don’t be shy, this is the best part!
7. Bake to Set the Caramel:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the caramel is bubbly but not browned. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
8. Add Extra Salt:
As soon as you take the sheet out of the oven, sprinkle a little extra flaky sea salt on top of the caramel while it’s still warm. This will enhance that sweet and salty flavor combo!
9. Cool and Set:
Let the bites cool completely at room temperature. To make sure they firm up nicely, transfer the baking sheet to the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re set, you can serve them chilled or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Trust me, they won’t last long!
Enjoy your crunchy, sweet, and salty Salted Caramel Cracker Bites!
Can I Use Different Types of Crackers?
Absolutely! While buttery crackers like Ritz are perfect for these bites, you can use other brands or types. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the caramel without breaking easily. Whole-grain or gluten-free crackers work well too!
How Do I Store Leftover Caramel Bites?
Store any leftover Salted Caramel Cracker Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 5-7 days. If they stick together, you can separate them easily with a butter knife.
Can I Make the Caramel in Advance?
Yes! You can make the caramel ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to assemble, gently reheat the caramel in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s pourable again. Just be careful not to overheat it!
What If My Caramel Is Too Thick?
If your caramel mixture gets too thick, don’t worry! Just stir in a little more heavy cream or warm water to loosen it up before pouring it over the crackers. This will help achieve that smooth, gooey texture.
