Ritz Cracker Cookies: Sweet & Salty Delights – The Ultimate Guide
These Ritz cracker cookies are the perfect combination of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy! They’re surprisingly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are always a crowd-pleaser. This guide will take you through several variations, from the classic chocolate-covered Ritz to more adventurous caramel and pecan versions. Get ready to discover your new favorite cookie!
## Why Ritz Cracker Cookies?
Ritz cracker cookies offer a delightful contrast in flavors and textures that few other cookies can match. The buttery, slightly salty Ritz cracker provides a unique base that is perfectly complemented by sweet toppings like chocolate, caramel, and nuts. They are ideal for:
* **Quick & Easy Baking:** Requires minimal baking time and effort.
* **Minimal Ingredients:** Most recipes call for just a handful of common pantry staples.
* **Crowd-Pleasing Flavor:** The sweet and salty combination appeals to a wide range of palates.
* **Customizable:** Easily adaptable to different flavors and toppings.
* **Fun for Kids:** A great baking project to do with children.
## The Classic Chocolate Covered Ritz Cracker Cookies
This is the quintessential Ritz cracker cookie recipe, loved for its simplicity and deliciousness. The buttery, salty cracker dipped in smooth chocolate is an irresistible treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sleeve (approximately 30-36) Ritz crackers
* 12 ounces chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate – your choice!)
* 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
* Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or sea salt (optional, for decoration)
**Equipment:**
* Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
* Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper
* Fork or dipping tools
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chocolate:**
* **Double Boiler Method:** Fill the bottom of a double boiler with about an inch of water and bring to a simmer. Place the chocolate chips and shortening (if using) in the top bowl of the double boiler. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to let any water get into the chocolate.
* **Microwave Method:** Place the chocolate chips and shortening (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn.
2. **Dipping the Crackers:**
* Dip each Ritz cracker into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. You can use a fork, dipping tools, or even just your fingers (carefully!).
3. **Setting and Decorating:**
* Place the chocolate-covered crackers on the prepared baking sheet.
* Immediately sprinkle with your desired toppings, such as sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a pinch of sea salt.
4. **Chill and Harden:**
* Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator or freezer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm. This will help the chocolate set quickly and prevent it from melting at room temperature.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
* Once the chocolate is set, remove the cookies from the baking sheet and serve. These cookies are best enjoyed within a few days, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer storage.
**Tips for Perfect Chocolate Covered Ritz Crackers:**
* **Use High-Quality Chocolate:** The quality of the chocolate will significantly impact the taste of the cookies. Opt for good-quality chocolate chips or chocolate bars for the best results.
* **Don’t Overheat the Chocolate:** Overheating chocolate can cause it to seize up and become grainy. Use low heat and stir frequently to prevent burning.
* **Add Shortening or Coconut Oil:** Adding a small amount of shortening or coconut oil to the chocolate will help it melt smoothly and create a glossy finish.
* **Work Quickly:** Once the chocolate is melted, work quickly to dip the crackers before the chocolate starts to harden.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings! Crushed pretzels, toffee bits, M&Ms, and dried fruit are all great options.
## Peanut Butter Cup Ritz Cracker Cookies
Take your Ritz cracker cookies to the next level by adding a peanut butter cup! This recipe combines the salty cracker, creamy peanut butter cup, and melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sleeve (approximately 30-36) Ritz crackers
* 15-18 miniature peanut butter cups, unwrapped
* 12 ounces chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate)
* 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional)
* Sea salt (optional)
**Equipment:**
* Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
* Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Assemble the Cookies:**
* Place half of the Ritz crackers on the prepared baking sheet.
* Top each cracker with a miniature peanut butter cup.
3. **Bake:** Bake for 2-3 minutes, or until the peanut butter cups are slightly softened. Watch them carefully to prevent them from melting completely.
4. **Prepare the Chocolate:**
* While the cookies are baking, melt the chocolate chips and shortening (if using) using either the double boiler or microwave method as described in the previous recipe.
5. **Top with Chocolate:**
* Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Use a spoon to spread the melted chocolate over each peanut butter cup, ensuring it’s fully covered.
6. **Sprinkle and Chill:**
* Sprinkle with sea salt (optional).
* Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator or freezer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the chocolate is set, serve and enjoy!
## Salted Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies
This recipe combines the salty-sweetness of caramel with the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers. The addition of sea salt enhances the caramel flavor and creates a truly addictive cookie.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sleeve (approximately 30-36) Ritz crackers
* 1 cup caramel bits or caramel squares, unwrapped
* 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
* 12 ounces chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate)
* 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional)
* Flaky sea salt
**Equipment:**
* Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
* Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
* Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Caramel:**
* **Saucepan Method:** In a small saucepan, combine the caramel bits or squares with the milk or heavy cream. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the caramel is melted and smooth.
* **Microwave Method:** In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits or squares with the milk or heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the caramel is melted and smooth.
2. **Top the Crackers:**
* Place the Ritz crackers on the prepared baking sheet.
* Spoon a generous amount of melted caramel onto each cracker.
3. **Chill the Caramel:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes, or until the caramel is set.
4. **Prepare the Chocolate:**
* Melt the chocolate chips and shortening (if using) using either the double boiler or microwave method.
5. **Dip in Chocolate:**
* Dip each caramel-topped cracker into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
6. **Sprinkle with Salt and Chill:**
* Place the chocolate-covered crackers back on the baking sheet.
* Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
* Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator or freezer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the chocolate is set, serve and enjoy!
## Ritz Cracker Cookies with Pecans and Caramel
This recipe elevates the Ritz cracker cookie by adding crunchy pecans and gooey caramel. It’s a decadent treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sleeve (approximately 30-36) Ritz crackers
* 1 cup caramel bits or caramel squares, unwrapped
* 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
* 1/2 cup chopped pecans
* 12 ounces chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate)
* 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional)
**Equipment:**
* Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
* Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
* Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Caramel:**
* Prepare the caramel using either the saucepan or microwave method as described in the Salted Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies recipe.
2. **Top the Crackers:**
* Place the Ritz crackers on the prepared baking sheet.
* Spoon a generous amount of melted caramel onto each cracker.
3. **Sprinkle with Pecans:**
* Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the caramel.
4. **Chill the Caramel:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes, or until the caramel is set.
5. **Prepare the Chocolate:**
* Melt the chocolate chips and shortening (if using) using either the double boiler or microwave method.
6. **Dip in Chocolate:**
* Dip each caramel-and-pecan-topped cracker into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
7. **Chill to Set:**
* Place the chocolate-covered crackers back on the baking sheet.
* Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator or freezer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the chocolate is set, serve and enjoy!
## White Chocolate Ritz Cracker Cookies with Cranberries and Pistachios
For a festive and elegant twist, try making Ritz cracker cookies with white chocolate, cranberries, and pistachios. The sweet white chocolate pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries and salty pistachios, creating a delightful flavor combination.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sleeve (approximately 30-36) Ritz crackers
* 12 ounces white chocolate chips
* 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional)
* 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
* 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
**Equipment:**
* Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
* Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chocolate:**
* Melt the white chocolate chips and shortening (if using) using either the double boiler or microwave method. White chocolate tends to burn more easily than other types of chocolate, so be extra careful.
2. **Dip the Crackers:**
* Dip each Ritz cracker into the melted white chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. **Sprinkle with Toppings:**
* Place the chocolate-covered crackers on the prepared baking sheet.
* Immediately sprinkle with chopped cranberries and pistachios.
4. **Chill and Harden:**
* Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator or freezer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
* Once the chocolate is set, remove the cookies from the baking sheet and serve. These cookies are best enjoyed within a few days, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer storage.
## Tips and Tricks for Ritz Cracker Cookie Success
* **Storage:** Store your Ritz cracker cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let them thaw completely before serving.
* **Melting Chocolate:** The key to perfectly melted chocolate is low and slow heat. Whether you’re using a double boiler or the microwave, be patient and stir frequently to prevent burning. Adding a tablespoon of shortening or coconut oil will help the chocolate melt smoothly and create a glossy finish.
* **Topping Variations:** The possibilities for toppings are endless! Get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors. Some other great topping ideas include crushed pretzels, toffee bits, mini M&Ms, sprinkles, coconut flakes, chopped nuts, and sea salt.
* **Dietary Considerations:**
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free Ritz-style crackers to make these cookies gluten-free. Be sure to check the labels of all other ingredients to ensure they are also gluten-free.
* **Vegan:** While traditional Ritz crackers are not vegan, some vegan-friendly cracker alternatives are available. Use vegan chocolate and other vegan toppings to make these cookies vegan.
* **Preventing Chocolate Bloom:** Chocolate bloom is the white or gray coating that can sometimes appear on chocolate. It’s caused by changes in the fat or sugar crystals in the chocolate. To prevent bloom, avoid exposing the chocolate to extreme temperature changes. Store your cookies in a cool, dry place.
## Variations and Creative Ideas
* **S’mores Ritz Crackers:** Top the crackers with mini marshmallows and a piece of chocolate, then bake until the marshmallows are golden brown.
* **Mint Chocolate Ritz Crackers:** Use mint chocolate chips and top with crushed peppermint candies.
* **Cookies and Cream Ritz Crackers:** Dip the crackers in melted white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed Oreo cookies.
* **Espresso Ritz Crackers:** Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the melted chocolate for a coffee-flavored treat.
* **Spicy Ritz Crackers:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the melted chocolate for a spicy kick.
## Final Thoughts
Ritz cracker cookies are a fun and easy way to satisfy your sweet and salty cravings. With so many variations to choose from, you can easily customize them to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert to make with the kids or a simple treat to bring to a party, Ritz cracker cookies are always a hit. So, gather your ingredients, get creative, and enjoy these delightful little bites of happiness!
Happy Baking!