Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a quick and delicious treat that everyone can enjoy, and these Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are the perfect example. When I made these for my family, the excitement was palpable. As soon as I took the first batch out of the oven, the aroma filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in. The combination of sweet caramel, crunchy peanuts, and the buttery Ritz cracker base is irresistible. My kids couldn’t wait for them to cool down, and honestly, neither could I. We ended up devouring them in no time, making it clear that these treats are a family favorite. Let me take you through this delightful recipe!

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

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Line a Cookie Sheet: Begin by lining a cookie sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the treats from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Lay Out Ritz Crackers: Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer on the prepared cookie sheet. You can fit about two sleeves, depending on the size of your sheet.

Make the Caramel-Peanut Mixture

1. Heat Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
2. Add Milk and Flavor: Once the mixture begins to thicken slightly, lower the heat. Whisk in the additional milk, vanilla extract, and roughly chopped peanuts. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, stirring until everything is well combined and thickened.
3. Remove from Heat: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assemble the Treats

1. Spoon the Mixture: Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, carefully spoon the caramel-peanut mixture onto each Ritz cracker. Be generous; the more, the better!
2. Let Them Set: Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature. The caramel will harden slightly, making them easier to handle.

Cool and Store

1. Storing the Treats: Once cooled, transfer the treats to an airtight container. This will keep them fresh for days, though I doubt they’ll last that long!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 24 treats
• Calories: 150 kcal per treat
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Protein: 2 g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve these treats on a decorative plate to impress guests.
• Pair with a glass of milk for a classic combination.
• Perfect for birthday parties, bake sales, or just as a sweet snack.

Additional Tips

1. Mix It Up: Add other nuts or candies to the caramel mixture for variety.
2. Check the Consistency: If the caramel is too runny, let it cook a bit longer to thicken.
3. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, for a unique twist.
4. Make It Nut-Free: Substitute the peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely if allergies are a concern.
5. Presentation: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled treats for added decadence.
• Peanut Butter Twist: Mix in some peanut butter with the caramel mixture for a richer flavor.
• S’mores Style: Top the Ritz crackers with mini marshmallows before adding the caramel mixture, and then toast them for a s’mores twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Serve at parties alongside other desserts for variety.
• Use as a topping for ice cream sundaes for a fun dessert option.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of crackers?

• Yes! While Ritz crackers are ideal, you can experiment with other types of crackers for different flavors.

1. How can I make these treats gluten-free?

• Substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

1. What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

• You can make a homemade version using milk and sugar, but the texture may vary.

1. How can I make these treats more chocolatey?

• Add chocolate chips to the caramel mixture or drizzle melted chocolate on top.

1. What other nuts can I use?

• Almonds, pecans, or walnuts can be great alternatives to peanuts.

1. Are these treats kid-friendly?

• Absolutely! Kids love the sweet and salty combination, but always check for nut allergies.

1. Can I prepare these ahead of time?

• Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored properly.

1. How do I know when the caramel mixture is thick enough?

• It should coat the back of a spoon and be slightly sticky.

1. Can I add dried fruits?

• Yes, adding raisins or cranberries can enhance the flavor and texture.

1. What if I want to make a smaller batch?
   • Simply halve the ingredients for a smaller quantity.

Conclusion

These Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Treats are not just easy to make; they’re also deliciously addictive. The contrast of textures—from the crunchy Ritz crackers to the chewy caramel-peanut mixture—creates a delightful treat that everyone will love. Perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or just a sweet snack at home, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing these treats, and watch them disappear in no time!

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