Description
Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats
Ingredients:
1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup roughly chopped peanuts
1-2 sleeves of Ritz crackers
Preparation:
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and lay out Ritz crackers in a single layer.
Make the Caramel-Peanut Mixture:
In a saucepan, heat the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar over medium heat for 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently.
Lower the heat, then whisk in milk, vanilla extract, and chopped peanuts. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the mixture thickens, then remove from heat.
Assemble the Treats:
Using a cookie scoop, spoon the caramel-peanut mixture onto each Ritz cracker.
Cool and Store:
Allow the treats to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect treats every time. First, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange Ritz crackers in neat rows, ensuring they don’t touch. For the caramel, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon for a full 7-8 minutes. This constant stirring prevents scorching. You’ll see the mixture bubble and thicken slightly. Reduce heat to low. Carefully whisk in the milk and vanilla extract—it may splatter. Fold in the chopped peanuts. Cook for 2 more minutes until the caramel coats the back of a spoon. Immediately remove from heat. Working quickly, use a small cookie scoop or two spoons to place a generous mound of the hot caramel-peanut mixture onto each cracker. Let cool at room temperature until completely set, about 1-2 hours.
Serving Suggestions
These treats are versatile. For a festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate or white chocolate over the cooled tops. Serve them on a platter at holiday parties or potlucks. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a gift, layer them in a decorative tin with parchment paper between layers. You can also sprinkle a tiny bit of flaky sea salt on the warm caramel for a sweet-and-salty boost.
How-to Summary
In short: Line a pan with crackers. Cook condensed milk, butter, and sugar into a caramel. Mix in vanilla and peanuts. Spoon onto crackers. Cool completely before serving or storing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts? Absolutely. Almonds, pecans, or even pretzel pieces make excellent substitutes for peanuts.
How long do these stay fresh? Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they remain fresh and crisp for up to 5 days.
My caramel is too runny. What happened? This usually means it wasn’t cooked long enough. Ensure you cook for the full time over medium heat until it visibly thickens in the pan.
Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, simply use a gluten-free cracker that is similar in size and saltiness to a Ritz.
Why must I stir constantly? Sweetened condensed milk burns easily. Constant stirring ensures even heating and prevents a bitter, burnt flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the Cooling: Do not move or store the treats before the caramel has fully set, or you’ll have a messy, sticky disaster.
- High Heat: Never crank the heat to speed up cooking; it will burn the caramel.
- Using a Thin Pan: Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heat distribution to avoid hot spots.
- Overloading the Crackers: While generous is good, too much heavy caramel can cause the cracker to become soggy.
Conclusion
These Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are the ultimate easy dessert, combining salty, sweet, and crunchy in one irresistible bite. With just a few simple ingredients and this detailed guide, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a crowd-pleasing snack perfect for any occasion. Their make-ahead convenience and delightful flavor ensure they’ll become a requested favorite in your recipe collection.