A Delicious and Easy Guide to Sweet and Salty Perfection in Just 20 Minutes!
There's something magical about the perfect balance of sweet and salty, and these Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies deliver that magic in every bite. Whether you’re planning a cozy afternoon in the kitchen with your kids or looking for an impressive treat that’s deceptively simple to make, this recipe has you covered.
These cookies aren’t just a treat they’re a memory in the making. With their crisp, buttery Ritz cracker base, gooey caramel center, and luscious chocolate coating topped with a sprinkle of sea salt, they offer a delightful texture and taste that’s irresistible. Plus, with just 20 minutes of prep and cooking time, you’ll have more time to enjoy the fun part: eating them together!
So, grab your aprons, round up the kids, and let’s dive into this delicious family-friendly recipe that’s bound to become a household favorite.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create these sweet and salty delights. To make it even more kid-friendly, feel free to print out the list and let them check off each item as you gather it.
Main Ingredients:
- Ritz crackers: 40 pieces (enough for 20 sandwiches)
- Caramel candies: 20 pieces, unwrapped (or substitute with homemade caramel)
- Chocolate chips: 2 cups (milk, dark, or semi-sweet, depending on your preference)
- Heavy cream: 2 tablespoons (to help melt the chocolate smoothly)
- Sea salt: For sprinkling on top
Optional Substitutions:
- Gluten-free Ritz-style crackers: For a gluten-free version
- Dairy-free chocolate chips: To make this recipe dairy-free
- Nut butter: Use as a filling for a fun variation
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking with kids can be messy but oh-so-rewarding! These simple steps are designed to keep the process fun and interactive.
1. Prep Your Workspace
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze. Set out all your ingredients so your little helpers can see what’s next.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay out half the Ritz crackers on the baking sheet. Place one caramel candy on each cracker. Cover with another Ritz cracker to create a sandwich. Gently press them together, but not too hard—you don’t want the caramel to squish out!
Tip: Let your kids help with stacking the crackers—it’s like building edible towers!
3. Melt the Caramel
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Pop the baking sheet with your sandwiches into the oven for about 5 minutes, just long enough to soften the caramel. Remove and press the sandwiches slightly again to ensure the caramel sticks to both crackers. Allow them to cool for a few minutes.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Coating
While the caramel sandwiches cool, melt the chocolate chips with the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Interactive Fun: Kids love stirring melted chocolate just make sure the bowl isn’t too hot!
5. Dip and Decorate
Using a fork, dip each sandwich into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Let any excess chocolate drip off, then place it back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top.
Pro Tip: For extra creativity, provide sprinkles or edible glitter for kids to decorate their cookies.
6. Let Them Set
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to let the chocolate harden. Once set, your cookies are ready to enjoy!
Estimated Cooking & Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
This quick timeframe ensures you’re spending more time enjoying the treats than making them—a win for busy families!
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Key Nutrients:
- Calcium: Helps build strong bones for kids
- Iron: Important for energy and growth
While these cookies are an indulgence, they can still fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Serving and Storage Tips
These cookies are best served fresh, but they also store well. Here’s how to keep them at their best:
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They’re also perfect for potlucks or as a quick holiday gift when wrapped in a cute tin.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Making these Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies is more than just creating a delicious treat it’s an opportunity to bond with your family and spark joy in the kitchen. From assembling the caramel sandwiches to dipping them in chocolate, every step is an invitation to have fun and get a little messy (in the best way).
I’d love to hear how your cookies turn out! Did you try any fun variations? Share your experiences in the comments below or tag me on social media with your creations. Cooking with my boys always brings a smile to our kitchen, and I hope it does the same for yours.
For more family-friendly recipes, subscribe to my blog and never miss a new idea. Until next time, happy cooking!
