Name: Sweet and Salty Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 box Ritz Crackers (Adds buttery crispness); 1 cup Dulce de Leche (Provides rich sweetness, can be substituted with homemade caramel); 1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips (Used for coating); 1 cup Dark Chocolate Melting Wafers (Ensures a smooth coating); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Enhances flavor contrast)

As I assembled my festive treats this holiday season, a burst of nostalgia swept over me. Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies have a special place in my heart, beautifully blending sweet and salty while evoking memories of laughter-filled gatherings. These easy-to-make delights feature buttery Ritz crackers, rich caramel, and smooth dark chocolate—creating a crunchy and gooey experience that’s simply irresistible. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, they are the perfect addition to any holiday dessert spread, bringing joy to both young and old alike. Plus, they store well, making them a treat you can whip up ahead of time for unexpected guests. Are you ready to embark on a merry baking adventure?

Why Are Caramel Ritz Cookies So Loved?

Irresistible combination: Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies harmoniously blend the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers with the sweet, gooey allure of caramel and smooth dark chocolate. Quick preparation: With minimal ingredients and effortless assembly, these treats are perfect for busy holiday schedules. Crowd-pleaser: Loved by adults and kids alike, they’re a delightful addition to any festive gathering or dessert spread. Versatile options: Feel free to mix in your favorite flavors, like a nutty twist or a peppermint touch. Make-ahead bliss: Easily store leftovers or make them ahead of time for spontaneous holiday visitors. This recipe promises joy and nostalgia with every bite!

Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
Ritz Crackers – Adds buttery crispness; an essential base layer for these delightful cookies.
Dulce de Leche – Provides rich sweetness and a gooey texture; can be easily substituted with homemade caramel if desired.
Dark Chocolate Chips – Used for coating, imparting a rich chocolate flavor that complements the sweet and salty cookie.
Dark Chocolate Melting Wafers – Ensures a smooth, delicious coating; you can use any alternative melting chocolate if preferred.
Optional Toppings
Sea Salt – Enhances the flavor contrast between sweet and salty; sprinkle on top for an extra burst of flavor if desired.

Enjoy making these Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies as they bring a festive touch to your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Equipment and Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and equipment. Set up a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting the chocolate. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) to keep your cookies warm after assembly. Ensure the Ritz crackers are fresh for optimal crunch, and have parchment paper ready for cooling your finished cookies.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In your double boiler or microwave, melt the dark chocolate melting wafers. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes total. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. This melted chocolate will be the delicious coating for your Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Take a Ritz cracker and spread a generous layer of dulce de leche on it. Top it with another Ritz cracker to form a sandwich. Repeat this process until you have assembled the desired number of cookies. Make sure the dulce de leche is evenly spread, creating a gooey center that pairs perfectly with the textures of the crackers.

Step 4: Coat the Cookie Sandwiches
Gently dip each assembled sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is completely coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl before placing the cookies on the lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie before the chocolate sets, enhancing the sweet and salty profile of your Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies.

Step 5: Set the Cookies
Once all cookie sandwiches are coated, carefully move the lined baking sheet to the refrigerator. Let the cookies cool for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens completely. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect finish and ensuring that your cookies maintain their delightful crunch when you take a bite.

Step 6: Serve and Store
After the chocolate has set, your delicious Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are ready to enjoy! Serve them on a festive dessert platter during your holiday gatherings. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for up to three months, keeping all their sweet and salty charm intact.

What to Serve with Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies?

The festive flavors of these sweet and salty cookies can shine even brighter when paired with the perfect side dishes and drinks!

Creamy Hot Cocoa: This rich and comforting drink adds warmth, enhancing the cozy vibe of your holiday cookie spread. Perfect for sipping while enjoying dessert!
Festive Sugar Cookies: A classic choice, these soft, sugary delights complement the crunchy texture of the Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies perfectly—guaranteeing a delightful variety at any gathering.
Gingerbread Men: Their spicy sweetness balances beautifully with the richness of caramel and chocolate, making them a nostalgic holiday favorite everyone loves!
Nutty Snack Mix: A blend of savory nuts, pretzels, and chocolate bits adds an extra crunch and textures, providing a delightful contrast to your cookies.
Eggnog: This creamy, spiced beverage is a holiday staple that pairs fantastically with the gooey, sweet notes of your cookies, creating a merry celebration in every sip.
Fruit Platter: Offering fresh, juicy fruits provides a refreshing contrast and helps cut through the sweetness, balancing the flavors on your dessert table.
Peppermint Bark: The cool, minty flavor enhances a festive feel and pairs well with the rich sweetness, creating delightful taste buds harmony during holiday festivities.
Cheesecake Bites: These luscious, creamy treats are indulgent and bring a luxurious touch; the slight tanginess complements the cookies’ sweetness beautifully!
Spiced Wine: A warm, mulled wine option provides a touch of elegance and warmth, inviting guests to snuggle in while enjoying holiday treats together.

Storage Tips for Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Room Temperature: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them crunchy and delicious for your holiday snacking!
Fridge: If you prefer, place the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. This also helps the chocolate maintain its firmness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, allow frozen Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This way, they’ll be ready to delight friends and family once again!

Expert Tips for Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Fresh Ingredients: Ensure crackers are fresh for an unbeatable crunch. Stale crackers can lead to a less enjoyable texture.
Watch the Chocolate: Keep a close eye while melting chocolate; stir frequently to prevent burning. Smooth melted chocolate is key to a perfect coating on your Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies.
Even Layering: Spread the dulce de leche evenly to create balanced sweetness and gooeyness in every bite. A well-constructed sandwich elevates the dessert!
Chill Properly: Let the cookies set in the refrigerator for adequate time. This allows the chocolate to harden completely, ensuring your cookies maintain their delightful form and crunch.
Customize Flavor: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Incorporate nuts or peppermint extract for a unique twist to your Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies, making each batch your own.
Storing Tips: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for a week, but can also be frozen for up to three months, perfect for sudden holiday guests!

Make Ahead Options

These Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, making holiday baking a breeze! You can easily assemble the cracker and dulce de leche sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. If you’re planning for a gathering, prepare the cookies two to three days ahead, and coat them in melted chocolate just before serving to ensure that chocolate remains crisp. To preserve their delightful texture, avoid dipping the sandwiches in chocolate until you’re ready to enjoy them. Once coated, they can be stored for about a week, remaining just as delicious and festive!

Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these fun twists on your Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies to create a treat that’s uniquely yours!

Nuts Galore: Add chopped pecans or walnuts in between the cracker layers for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
White Chocolate Delight: Switch to white chocolate for coating if you prefer a sweeter treat with a lovely contrast in color and taste.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate peppermint extract into your melted chocolate for a refreshing minty twist that embodies the holiday spirit.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper into the melted chocolate for an unexpected but delectable spicy twist that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Nut Butter Love: Try spreading a layer of almond or peanut butter along with the dulce de leche for a protein-packed, richer flavor.
Seasonal Sprinkles: Top your coated cookies with festive holiday sprinkles before the chocolate sets to add a pop of color and a fun bite.
Nut-Free Fun: For a nut-free option, simply omit all nuts and consider adding sunflower seeds for a hint of crunch without allergens.

These adaptations can easily transform your festive cookie experience, much like experimenting with flavors in Salted Caramel Banana or the delightful Chewy Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. Don’t hesitate to get creative; the magic of cooking lies in making recipes your own!

Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of Ritz Crackers should I use?
It’s best to use standard Ritz Crackers for this recipe, as their buttery crispness is integral to the texture and flavor of the cookies. Ensure they are fresh and not broken, as this will enhance the overall crunchiness of your treats.

How should I store leftover cookies?
After enjoying your Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies, store any leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. This will help maintain their delightful crunch and gooey caramel center.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What if my chocolate isn’t melting properly?
If your chocolate isn’t melting as it should, try lowering the heat and melting it slowly, stirring frequently. If using a microwave, heat in shorter intervals of about 15-20 seconds and check for doneness. If it still clumps, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or coconut oil to help it become smoother.

Are Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies safe for pets?
While these cookies are a delightful treat for humans, they are not suitable for pets, especially dogs. The chocolate can be toxic to them. Always store cookies out of reach from pets and opt for pet-safe snacks if you’re looking to treat your furry friends.

Can I substitute dulce de leche with homemade caramel?
Yes, you can easily substitute store-bought dulce de leche with homemade caramel if you prefer. To make homemade caramel, cook sugar over medium heat, stirring until it melts and turns a golden brown, then carefully add heavy cream while stirring until smooth. This will give you a rich and gooey layer that pairs wonderfully with the Ritz crackers!