Salted Caramel Cracker Bites Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy-to-make, sweet-and-salty treat that’s perfect for any occasion, Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are your answer. These bite-sized delights combine crispy crackers, a rich homemade caramel, and a layer of melted chocolate with a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for holiday treats, party snacks, or a quick dessert, these bites will become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 40-50 square or rectangular buttery crackers (such as Saltines or Club crackers)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 2 cups semisweet or dark chocolate chips
- Sea salt flakes for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spray lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Arrange the Crackers
- Place the crackers in a single layer on the lined baking sheet. Make sure the crackers are touching or slightly overlapping to form a solid base.
Step 3: Make the Caramel
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the light brown sugar and stir until the mixture is fully combined.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens and takes on a deep caramel color.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using.
Step 4: Pour and Spread the Caramel
- Carefully pour the hot caramel over the crackers and spread it evenly using a spatula. Ensure all the crackers are well-coated.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. The caramel should be bubbling when you remove it.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate
- Immediately after removing the baking sheet from the oven, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt.
- Once the chocolate has softened, use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across the surface.
Step 7: Sprinkle Sea Salt
- Sprinkle sea salt flakes over the melted chocolate while it’s still warm for that perfect salted caramel flavor.
Step 8: Chill and Set
- Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator or let it sit at room temperature for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully set.
Step 9: Break into Bites
- Once the chocolate has hardened, break the sheet into bite-sized pieces. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for longer storage.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve these bites as a snack, dessert, or holiday treat. They’re perfect for sharing or gifting in decorative tins.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 5-7 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. If freezing, use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Helpful Notes
- Cracker Alternatives: Try using graham crackers or pretzel crisps for a unique twist.
- Chocolate Options: Mix dark and milk chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness.
- Extra Toppings: Add chopped nuts or a drizzle of white chocolate for added texture and flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten: “For a deeper flavor, use high-quality chocolate and sprinkle a touch of fleur de sel for that perfect gourmet finish.”
- Chef Samin Nosrat: “The contrast of salty and sweet is essential. Don’t skimp on the sea salt—it truly makes the flavors pop.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use different types of crackers? Yes, feel free to use other types of crackers like graham crackers or Ritz for a slightly different flavor and texture.
2. What if I don’t have sea salt flakes? You can use regular sea salt or kosher salt, but use a light hand as it’s saltier than flakes.
3. Can I make these vegan? Yes, use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to make the recipe plant-based.
4. What should I do if the caramel hardens too fast? Work quickly when spreading the caramel over the crackers, and if it starts to harden, warm it slightly over low heat.
5. Can I use white chocolate instead? Absolutely! White chocolate adds a different level of sweetness and pairs well with toppings like crushed peppermint for a holiday version.
6. How do I prevent the chocolate from separating when I cut it? Let the bites fully set and use a sharp knife to cut them to avoid cracks in the chocolate.
7. What other toppings can I add? Crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or colorful sprinkles can be sprinkled over the chocolate layer for added fun and flavor.
8. Is it possible to add caramel flavor directly to the chocolate? Yes, add a swirl of caramel sauce to the melted chocolate before it sets for an extra layer of flavor.
9. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, these bites can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for convenient snacking.
10. How do I keep the caramel from sticking to the parchment? Ensure the parchment or foil is sprayed lightly with non-stick cooking spray or use a silicone baking mat for easy removal.
These Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are simple yet indulgent treats perfect for any occasion. They combine the irresistible flavors of sweet caramel, rich chocolate, and a hint of sea salt to create a snack that’s sure to please. Make a batch and watch them disappear!