Buttery Bliss: Delicious Recipes Featuring the New Extra Buttery Ritz Crackers
Get ready to elevate your snacking and cooking game with the newest addition to the Ritz cracker family: the Extra Buttery Ritz! These crackers take the classic, flaky goodness of Ritz and crank up the buttery flavor to eleven. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or a creative appetizer, these recipes are sure to impress with their rich, buttery taste and easy preparation.
Why Extra Buttery Ritz Crackers?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about what makes these crackers so special. The Extra Buttery Ritz crackers boast a noticeably richer, more intense buttery flavor compared to the original. This enhanced buttery taste makes them incredibly versatile, complementing both sweet and savory ingredients beautifully. They’re perfect for:
* **Snacking straight from the box:** The extra buttery flavor makes them irresistible on their own.
* **Dipping:** Pair them with your favorite dips, from creamy spinach artichoke to tangy French onion.
* **Topping:** Crumble them over salads, soups, or casseroles for a buttery crunch.
* **Baking:** Use them as a base for appetizers, desserts, or even as a breadcrumb substitute.
* **Adding texture:** The buttery flavor enhances anything you add them to.
Recipe 1: Buttery Ritz Cracker Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The crushed Extra Buttery Ritz crackers create a crispy, flavorful coating that’s far superior to traditional breadcrumbs.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
* 1 sleeve Extra Buttery Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the chicken:** Cut the chicken breasts into strips that are about 1 inch wide and 3-4 inches long. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. **Crush the crackers:** Place the Extra Buttery Ritz crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor. You should have about 1 1/2 cups of cracker crumbs.
3. **Set up the breading station:** In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, the beaten eggs mixed with milk, and the crushed Ritz cracker crumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. **Bread the chicken:** Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, dredge it in the crushed Ritz cracker crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere.
5. **Fry the chicken:** Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd it. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
6. **Drain and serve:** Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Baking option:** For a healthier alternative, bake the chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cracker crumbs for a spicy kick.
* **Cheese please:** Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the cracker crumbs for extra flavor.
* **Herb infusion:** Add dried herbs like Italian seasoning or thyme to the cracker crumbs for an herby twist.
* **Air Fryer:** These tenders cook beautifully in an air fryer. Cook at 400F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. You may need to spray them with a little oil to help them brown.
Recipe 2: Extra Buttery Ritz Cracker Mac and Cheese Bites
These bite-sized mac and cheese appetizers are perfect for parties or potlucks. The crushed Ritz cracker topping adds a delightful buttery crunch that complements the creamy cheese filling.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (7.25 oz) box macaroni and cheese mix (prepared according to package directions)
* 1/4 cup milk (or as needed for desired consistency)
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* 1/2 sleeve Extra Buttery Ritz crackers (about 15 crackers)
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the mac and cheese:** Prepare the macaroni and cheese according to the package directions. Stir in the milk and cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk to reach the desired consistency.
2. **Crush the crackers:** Place the Extra Buttery Ritz crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them into coarse crumbs. Mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter and parsley (if using).
3. **Assemble the bites:** Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into mini muffin tins, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker topping over the mac and cheese in each cup.
4. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
5. **Cool and serve:** Let the mac and cheese bites cool slightly in the muffin tins before carefully removing them. Serve warm.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Cheese variations:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Havarti, or pepper jack.
* **Add-ins:** Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables like peas or corn to the mac and cheese mixture.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mac and cheese mixture.
* **Herby goodness:** Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the cracker topping.
* **Cracker options:** While the extra buttery Ritz are the star, you can use the regular buttery Ritz if that is all you have available.
Recipe 3: No-Bake Extra Buttery Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Bars
These no-bake bars are a quick and easy dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. The salty, buttery Ritz cracker crust provides a delicious contrast to the sweet and creamy peanut butter filling.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 sleeves Extra Buttery Ritz crackers (about 60 crackers)
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 2 tablespoons butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the crust:** Place the Extra Buttery Ritz crackers in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Alternatively, place them in a resealable plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter and press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Make the peanut butter filling:** In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the Ritz cracker crust.
3. **Make the chocolate topping:** In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling and spread evenly.
4. **Chill:** Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set.
5. **Cut and serve:** Cut the bars into squares and serve chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate variations:** Use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
* **Peanut butter variations:** Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.
* **Add-ins:** Stir in chopped peanuts, pretzels, or chocolate-covered candies to the peanut butter filling.
* **Salted caramel:** Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the chocolate topping for an extra decadent treat.
* **Make them festive:** Top with sprinkles for a holiday or special occasion.
Recipe 4: Extra Buttery Ritz Cracker Crusted Salmon
This recipe offers a sophisticated twist, showcasing how the buttery crackers can enhance seafood. The crunchy, buttery crust complements the rich flavor of the salmon perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
* 1 sleeve Extra Buttery Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* Lemon wedges, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the crackers:** Place the Extra Buttery Ritz crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them into fine crumbs. Mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley.
3. **Prepare the salmon:** Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. **Top with cracker mixture:** Evenly spread the Ritz cracker mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to help it adhere.
5. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or rice.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Herb variations:** Experiment with different herbs, such as dill, thyme, or rosemary.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cracker mixture.
* **Citrus zest:** Add lemon, lime, or orange zest to the cracker mixture for extra flavor.
* **Vegetable addition:** Add finely chopped vegetables, such as shallots or garlic, to the cracker mixture.
* **Nutty crunch:** Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the Ritz cracker mixture for added texture and flavor.
Recipe 5: Extra Buttery Ritz Cracker Stuffed Mushrooms
These stuffed mushrooms are a delicious and easy appetizer that’s perfect for parties or gatherings. The buttery Ritz cracker filling adds a savory crunch that complements the earthy flavor of the mushrooms.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound large white or cremini mushrooms
* 1 sleeve Extra Buttery Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the mushrooms:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the stems from the mushrooms and set aside. Wipe the mushroom caps clean with a damp paper towel.
2. **Prepare the filling:** Place the mushroom stems in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Alternatively, finely chop them by hand. Place the Extra Buttery Ritz crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them into fine crumbs. In a large bowl, combine the chopped mushroom stems, crushed Ritz crackers, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. **Stuff the mushrooms:** Spoon the filling into the mushroom caps, mounding it slightly.
4. **Bake:** Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Cheese variations:** Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, mozzarella, or cheddar.
* **Meat addition:** Add cooked and crumbled bacon, sausage, or ham to the filling.
* **Vegetable addition:** Add finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to the filling.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the filling.
* **Herby twist:** Change up the herbs, using thyme, oregano, or chives instead of parsley.
Recipe 6: Extra Buttery Ritz Cracker Toffee
This sweet and salty treat is incredibly addictive. The Ritz crackers create a unique base for the toffee, providing a satisfying crunch and a hint of saltiness that balances the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sleeve Extra Buttery Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
* 1 cup (2 sticks) butter
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the crackers:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the Extra Buttery Ritz crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
2. **Make the toffee:** In a medium saucepan, combine the butter and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture comes to a boil and turns a golden amber color (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to burn the toffee.
3. **Pour over crackers:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Immediately pour the toffee mixture over the Ritz crackers, spreading it evenly.
4. **Add chocolate chips:** Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let them sit for a minute to soften, then spread them evenly over the toffee.
5. **Add nuts (optional):** Sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the chocolate.
6. **Chill:** Refrigerate the toffee for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
7. **Break into pieces:** Break the toffee into pieces and serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate variations:** Use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
* **Nut variations:** Use different types of nuts, such as almonds, macadamia nuts, or peanuts.
* **Sprinkles:** Add sprinkles or other decorations to the chocolate before it sets.
* **Salt:** Sprinkle sea salt over the top of the chocolate for a salty-sweet flavor.
* **Espresso powder:** Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the toffee mixture for a mocha flavor.
Recipe 7: Mini Ritz Cracker Pizzas
These mini pizzas are a super simple snack or appetizer that kids and adults will both love. The buttery Ritz crackers provide a crispy, flavorful base for all your favorite pizza toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sleeve Extra Buttery Ritz crackers
* Pizza sauce
* Shredded mozzarella cheese
* Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, peppers, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven (Optional):** While you don’t *need* to bake these, a few minutes in the oven or toaster oven makes them extra delicious. Preheat to 350F if desired.
2. **Assemble the pizzas:** Spread a small amount of pizza sauce on each Ritz cracker. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and your favorite pizza toppings.
3. **Bake (Optional):** Place the mini pizzas on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or parmesan.
* **Garlic Butter Crust:** Brush the Ritz crackers with garlic butter before adding toppings.
* **Pesto Base:** Use pesto instead of pizza sauce.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
* **Gourmet Toppings:** Try using gourmet toppings like artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or prosciutto.
Recipe 8: Extra Buttery Ritz Cracker Cheeseball
A cheeseball is a classic party appetizer, and the Ritz crackers elevate it to a new level of flavor and texture. The buttery, salty crackers create a delicious crust that complements the creamy cheese filling.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 sleeves Extra Buttery Ritz crackers, crushed
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, pecans or walnuts, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. **Shape into a Ball:** Shape the cheese mixture into a ball. Wrap the cheeseball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up.
3. **Crush Ritz Crackers:** Place the Extra Buttery Ritz crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them into fine crumbs.
4. **Coat with Crackers:** Remove the cheeseball from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Roll the cheeseball in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing gently to help the crackers adhere.
5. **Serve:** Serve the cheeseball with extra Ritz crackers, vegetables, or pretzels for dipping.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Havarti, or pepper jack.
* **Meat Addition:** Add cooked and crumbled bacon, sausage, or ham to the cheese mixture.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
* **Dried Fruit:** Add dried cranberries or apricots for a touch of sweetness.
* **Herb Infusion:** Add chopped fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or dill, to the cheese mixture.
Tips for Working with Extra Buttery Ritz Crackers
* **Crushing:** For the best results when using crushed Ritz crackers in recipes, use a food processor or blender to create fine, even crumbs. If you don’t have either of those, a rolling pin and a resealable bag work just fine.
* **Storage:** Store leftover Extra Buttery Ritz crackers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crispy.
* **Versatility:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations and adapt these recipes to your own tastes. The buttery flavor of these crackers complements a wide variety of ingredients.
* **Baking Time:** Keep a close eye on recipes that call for baking Ritz crackers, as they can burn easily. The extra butter content can cause them to brown quickly.
* **Pairing:** Consider what you’re serving with your Ritz cracker creations. The buttery flavor pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes, so think about complementary flavors.
Conclusion
The new Extra Buttery Ritz crackers are a game-changer for snacking and cooking. Their enhanced buttery flavor adds a delicious touch to everything from simple dips to sophisticated appetizers and desserts. These recipes are just a starting point – let your creativity flow and discover your own favorite ways to enjoy these irresistible crackers! So, grab a box of Extra Buttery Ritz and get ready to experience buttery bliss!