Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are a fun treat that everyone loves! They combine crispy crackers with sweet caramel, topped with a light sprinkle of salt—yummy!
Honestly, these bites are perfect for snacking. They’re super easy to make, and I can’t resist the crunchy-sweet goodness. You might want to hide them from others; they disappear fast! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are great for a sweet base. If you don’t have them, you can use crushed pretzels for a salty twist or vanilla wafers for a different sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: This helps bind the crumbs together. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well and adds a nice flavor.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel is quick and convenient. However, if you prefer homemade, simply melt sugar until golden and add cream slowly. This can be fun but requires careful attention!
Mini Cookie Crackers: Choose whatever small cracker you like! Animal crackers give a nostalgic feel, while Ritz crackers can add a buttery, salty balance.
Flaky Sea Salt: This is key to enhance flavors. If you don’t have it, regular table salt will do, but use less, as it’s finer and saltier.
How Do I Make Sure My Cracker Bites Don’t Fall Apart?
The base of your bites is crucial. Make sure to really press the graham cracker mixture firmly into your baking dish. A tight layer will help it hold its shape once baked.
- After baking, let it cool completely. This will help it set and be easier to cut.
- When cutting, use a sharp knife and be gentle to keep those bites intact.
- Assemble the bites right before serving for the best texture. If you let them sit too long after adding the caramel, they might get soggy.
How to Make Salted Caramel Cracker Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or similar crunchy cracker crumbs)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Mini cookie crackers or animal crackers (small size)
For the Topping:
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active preparation time and around 10 minutes baking time, plus a bit of cooling. You’ll spend a little more time letting them set before enjoying them, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for your crust to bake perfectly.
2. Prepare the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Mix until it looks like wet sand—this helps hold everything together. You want it a bit sticky!
3. Bake the Crust:
Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a small baking dish or spread it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet to create a compact base. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until it looks lightly golden. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool completely. Patience is key here!
4. Cut the Crust:
Once your crust is cool, carefully cut or break it into small bite-sized squares or pieces that match your mini cookie crackers. Aim for them to be about the same size so they fit well together.
5. Add Caramel:
On each piece of the crumb base, spoon or drizzle a small amount of caramel sauce. Just a little will do! Don’t worry about being too neat; the next steps will hide a lot of it, and more caramel means more yum!
6. Top with Crackers:
Take one mini cookie cracker and gently press it on top of the caramel. This helps the caramel spread just a little, making it extra delicious.
7. Finish with More Caramel and Salt:
Drizzle a bit more caramel over the top of each bite and then sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on each one. That’s what gives it that amazing sweet-and-salty flavor!
8. Let It Set:
Finally, let your delicious bites set at room temperature or pop them in the fridge for a bit to let the caramel firm up before serving. Then, they’re ready to enjoy!
These sweet, salty, crunchy treats make for an awesome snack or a tasty party appetizer. Enjoy every last bite!
Can I Substitute Different Types of Crackers?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have graham crackers, any crunch cracker will work, like saltines, Ritz, or vanilla wafers. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit based on your choice!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, but be aware that the texture might change slightly.
Can I Use Homemade Caramel?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel is a fantastic addition. Just make sure to let it cool slightly before using to prevent it from being too runny. Follow a standard caramel recipe for best results!
What If My Caramel Is Too Thick?
If your caramel has thickened or hardened, gently warm it in the microwave in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until it’s easier to drizzle. Stir between intervals to avoid overheating!
