If you’ve been searching for the perfect balance between sweet, salty, crunchy, and gooey—look no further. Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are the ultimate indulgence. These little squares of joy combine buttery caramel, crisp crackers, smooth chocolate, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to create a treat that’s dangerously addictive yet surprisingly easy to make.
Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday party, gifting to friends, or simply treating yourself after a long day, these bites deliver gourmet flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor contrast – The sweet caramel balances perfectly with salty crackers and sea salt.
- Easy prep – Requires just a few pantry staples and simple steps.
- Versatile – Dress them up for holidays, or keep them simple for everyday snacking.
- Crowd-pleaser – Kids love them, adults love them… they disappear fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves about 20–24 bites, depending on cut size)
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers (or Ritz for extra buttery flavor)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark/milk per preference)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp flaky sea salt (for topping)
Optional toppings: chopped nuts, pretzels, mini marshmallows, sprinkles, shredded coconut.
👉 Pro tip: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers and ensure your chocolate is GF-certified.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Arrange crackers in a single layer, edge to edge.
Step 2: Make the Caramel
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar together.
- Stir constantly until the mixture bubbles and thickens (about 3–5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Step 3: Assemble
- Pour the hot caramel evenly over the crackers, spreading quickly to cover.
- Bake for 5 minutes until bubbling.
Step 4: Add Chocolate
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over hot caramel.
- Wait 1–2 minutes, then spread melted chocolate evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Finish
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and any optional toppings.
- Cool at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator for 1–2 hours until firm.
Step 6: Cut & Serve
- Break or slice into bite-sized squares.
- Store in an airtight container at room temp for 5 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Variations & Creative Twists
- Holiday edition – Add crushed candy canes at Christmas.
- Nut lovers – Sprinkle chopped pecans, almonds, or cashews.
- Kid-friendly – Top with colorful sprinkles or M&Ms.
- Dark & decadent – Use 70% dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Tropical flair – Add toasted coconut flakes before chilling.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
- Caramel looks grainy? Stir gently and don’t overheat.
- Chocolate not melting? Pop the tray back in the warm oven for 1 minute.
- Want clean cuts? Use a sharp knife after chilling for neat squares.
- Making for gifts? Wrap in parchment and place in decorative tins.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Perfect with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
- Use as a crunchy topping for vanilla ice cream.
- Add to a holiday dessert board with cookies and truffles.
- Pair with a glass of red wine for an elevated treat.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 16g
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 160mg
(Values vary based on toppings and serving size.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these without an oven?
Yes! Skip the oven step—just pour caramel over crackers and let it set in the fridge.
Q: What crackers work best?
Saltines give a light, crisp texture. Ritz adds buttery richness. Graham crackers create a dessert-like base.
Q: How long do they last?
Up to 5 days at room temperature, 2 weeks in the fridge, or 2 months in the freezer.
Q: Why did my caramel crystallize?
Usually from over-stirring or overheating. Stir gently and stop once it reaches a smooth bubble.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a large baking sheet and adjust caramel accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Salted Caramel Cracker Bites prove that the simplest recipes can be the most indulgent. With minimal ingredients, quick prep, and endless variations, these bites are perfect for both everyday snacking and special occasions.
Once you make a batch, don’t be surprised if you find yourself making them again (and again). They’re that irresistible.
✨ Try them, share them, and let the salty-sweet magic speak for itself!
