Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

Sometimes the simplest treats are the most irresistible. Imagine a buttery, crisp cracker layered with rich golden caramel, topped with a silky layer of chocolate, and finished with a delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Each bite is a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and crunchy, making these Salted Caramel Cracker Bites a snack that disappears faster than you can make them. Trust me, they’re a total game-changer for your dessert table.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by a craving for something decadent but easy, a treat that could be whipped up in minutes yet taste like it came from a high-end bakery. Growing up, my family often made simple caramel-coated crackers during the holidays, but adding the extra layers of chocolate and salt elevates them into something truly special. They’re the kind of bite-sized indulgence you can serve at parties, wrap as gifts, or keep hidden for your own sweet moments.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

The idea of combining crackers with caramel is rooted in vintage American candy-making traditions. Recipes for “cracker toffee” or “Christmas crack” have been passed down for decades, especially popular during the winter holidays. The addition of sea salt is a more modern twist, reflecting the recent trend of balancing sweetness with savory elements.

Why You’ll Love Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

Versatile: Perfect for holidays, casual gatherings, or as an everyday treat.
Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive pantry staples.
Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Customizable: Change up the chocolate or add toppings like nuts or sprinkles.
Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by both kids and adults.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Keeps well for days without losing crunch.
Great for Leftovers: Stays just as good when stored in an airtight container.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to avoid burning the caramel.
2. Stir constantly while making the caramel to ensure even cooking.
3. Break crackers into even pieces for a uniform look and easier serving.
4. Use high-quality chocolate for the smoothest melt and best flavor.
5. Sprinkle sea salt while the chocolate is still soft so it sticks well.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Baking Sheet: To hold the crackers and caramel.
Saucepan: For melting butter and sugar into caramel.
Spatula: For spreading caramel and chocolate evenly.
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting chocolate if not using the stovetop.

Ingredients in Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

1. Saltine Crackers: 40 pieces (forms the crunchy base).
2. Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (adds richness to the caramel).
3. Brown Sugar: 1 cup (provides sweetness and caramel depth).
4. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 2 cups (smooth, rich chocolate topping).
5. Flaky Sea Salt: 1 teaspoon (enhances sweetness and adds texture).

Ingredient Substitutions

Saltine Crackers: Ritz crackers for a buttery variation.
Unsalted Butter: Margarine for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar for a subtle, less refined sweetness.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Dark or milk chocolate depending on preference.
Flaky Sea Salt: Crushed pretzels for added crunch and saltiness.

Ingredient Spotlight

Saltine Crackers: Their light, airy texture and subtle saltiness make the perfect base for rich caramel and chocolate.
Flaky Sea Salt: Adds both a visual pop and a burst of flavor that balances the sweetness.

Instructions for Making Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange crackers in a single layer.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and stir constantly until mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 3 minutes without stirring.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Pour the hot caramel evenly over the arranged crackers, spreading with a spatula.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5 minutes until caramel is bubbly. Remove and sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over caramel. Let sit for 2 minutes, then spread melted chocolate evenly.
5. Cook to Perfection: No further baking needed—allow the chocolate layer to set slightly.
6. Finishing Touches: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the warm chocolate.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Cool completely, then break into bite-sized pieces.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The crisp base gives way to a chewy caramel layer, topped with smooth chocolate that melts in your mouth. The final sprinkle of sea salt heightens every flavor and keeps the sweetness from overwhelming your palate.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use parchment instead of foil to avoid sticking.
• Break into rustic pieces for a homemade look.
• For extra shine, temper the chocolate before spreading.

What to Avoid

• Overcooking caramel, which can make it bitter.
• Using salted butter, which may make the bites overly salty.
• Rushing the cooling process—warm bites will not break cleanly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 20
Calories per serving: 220
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These bites can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze in layers separated by parchment paper.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

Arrange them in a decorative tin for gifting, pile on a rustic serving platter for parties, or pair with coffee for a quick dessert.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Crumble them over ice cream for a sweet-salty topping, or mix into popcorn for an indulgent movie snack.

Additional Tips

Add chopped nuts to the chocolate layer for crunch, or swirl in white chocolate for a marbled effect.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve on a slate board with small bowls of extra sea salt and chocolate shavings. A dusting of edible gold powder will make them look festive and elegant.

Variations to Try

• Top with toasted coconut flakes for tropical flair.
• Add crushed candy canes for a holiday twist.
• Use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate for a nutty version.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free crackers.

2. Can I use milk chocolate?

Yes, but it will make the bites sweeter.

3. How do I keep the caramel from getting grainy?

Cook over steady heat and avoid stirring once it starts boiling.

4. Can I make these without an oven?

You can, but the oven helps set the caramel quickly and evenly.

5. Can I add toppings?

Yes, nuts, coconut, or sprinkles work well.

6. How long do they last?

Up to a week in an airtight container.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use two baking sheets.

8. Can I skip the salt?

Yes, but the balance of flavors will change.

9. Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, by using dairy-free margarine and chocolate.

10. Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container with parchment between layers.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are proof that you don’t need complicated recipes to create unforgettable treats. With their addictive crunch, rich caramel, and perfect touch of salt, they’re the kind of snack that earns a permanent spot in your dessert rotation. Let me tell you, they’re worth every bite.

watch how to make Salted Caramel Cracker Bites