Description
These Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are a quick and easy sweet-and-salty snack made with buttery crackers, homemade caramel, melted chocolate, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Perfect for parties, gifts, or whenever you need a crave-worthy treat in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 40–45 buttery crackers (such as Club Crackers or Saltines; gluten-free versions work too)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as Maldon or fleur de sel), or to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans, almonds, or peanuts)
- Optional: Sprinkles
- Optional: Mini M&Ms or toffee bits
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet (about 10×15 inches) with parchment paper or nonstick foil, leaving an overhang.
- Arrange the crackers in a single layer, edge to edge, covering the entire pan. Break crackers to fit if needed.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar, stirring constantly.
- Once melted, bring the mixture to a gentle boil and boil for exactly 3 minutes, stirring constantly. The caramel should thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Quickly pour the hot caramel over the arranged crackers and spread evenly with a heatproof spatula.
- Bake for 5–6 minutes, until the caramel is bubbling all over. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top.
- Wait 2–3 minutes for the chips to soften, then spread the chocolate into an even layer with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt and any optional toppings (nuts, sprinkles, etc.) over the melted chocolate.
- Let the pan cool at room temperature for 30–40 minutes, or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate is set.
- Lift the slab out using the parchment overhang and slice into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Notes
For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, use appropriate crackers and plant-based butter/chocolate. Watch the caramel closely—boil for exactly 3 minutes for the best texture. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. These bites freeze well for up to 2 months. For super-clean edges, wipe your knife between slices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 bites
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: salted caramel, cracker bites, sweet and salty snack, easy dessert, party treat, chocolate caramel, toffee bars, holiday gift, vegetarian, kid-friendly