Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe

I’m so excited to share this Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe with you because it’s one of those sweet, salty, melt-in-your-mouth treats that everyone raves about. It’s surprisingly simple to make but delivers big on flavor, combining buttery Ritz crackers, gooey caramel, and a luscious chocolate coating with just the right pinch of sea salt. If you’re a fan of easy crowd-pleasers, you’re going to love this!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe you’ll want to make over and over. As you shop, look for soft, chewy caramels and a chocolate almond bark that melts smoothly for the best results.

• Soft Caramels: These provide the gooey center; make sure they’re soft for easy melting and smooth caramel.
• Heavy Cream: Just a touch to give the caramel a silkier, creamier texture.
• Ritz Crackers: Their buttery crispiness is the perfect base and top for these cookies.
• Chocolate Almond Bark: Melts easily and sets with a nice snap, coating the cookies beautifully.
• Sea Salt: Adds that essential flavor contrast, heightening the sweetness and making every bite pop.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe to make it suit any occasion or dietary preference. Feel free to customize it to your taste or what you have on hand—there are so many ways you can personalize these cookies.

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or almonds inside the caramel layer for extra crunch—I tried this at a family party and everyone loved the texture contrast.
• Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate bark to keep it delicious but allergy-friendly.
• Chocolate Variations: Dark chocolate bark adds richness, while white chocolate gives a sweeter, creamier vibe if you’re feeling indulgent.
• Spiced Salted Caramel: A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne in the caramel adds a subtle warmth that’s surprisingly addictive.

How to Make Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Caramel to Perfection

Start by placing your soft caramels and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir well. It might not be completely melted yet, so continue microwaving in 20-second bursts, stirring thoroughly between each, until the caramel is smooth and creamy. I always take a few extra seconds to stir because a perfectly smooth caramel makes all the difference in texture and taste. Let it cool for about 5 minutes—this helps it thicken slightly and prevents the crackers from getting soggy.

Step 2: Assemble Your Ritz Sandwiches

Line half of your Ritz crackers on a baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment. Then, spoon about 1 to 2 teaspoons of the caramel onto each cracker, spreading gently to cover but not overflow the edges. Carefully top each with another plain Ritz cracker to create a sandwich. I found that smaller amounts of caramel avoid the mess and keep your cookies neat. Once assembled, pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the caramel firms up.

Step 3: Dip in Chocolate and Add Salt

While your sandwiches chill, melt the chocolate almond bark according to package instructions—you want it smooth and lump-free. Once ready, dip each sandwich into the chocolate, shake off the excess, and place it back on your lined baking sheet. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for that signature salty-sweet kick. I’ve learned that working quickly is key here because the almond bark sets fast, and you want the salt to stick nicely.

Step 4: Let Them Set and Enjoy!

Let your Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies cool completely until the chocolate firm ups—about 15-20 minutes at room temperature or faster if you put them back in the fridge. Once set, they’re ready to dive into! Trust me, the combination of buttery crackers, luxurious caramel, and crunchy chocolate with a sprinkle of salt is pure magic.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually stick to a simple sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after dipping because that subtle crunch and saltiness balance all the sweetness perfectly. Sometimes, I like to add crushed toffee bits or even a light dusting of cinnamon for a fun twist—both add a lovely texture and flavor bonus.

Side Dishes

These cookies stand well on their own, but if you’re serving this at a party, pairing them with a rich cup of coffee or a frothy latte is heavenly. I also love bringing them out alongside a cheese platter—the salty-sweet theme continues and surprises everyone.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve wrapped individual cookies in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon for holiday gifts, and they always get compliments. For parties, arranging them on a tiered dessert stand really shows off their charm and makes it easy for guests to grab one.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, the chocolate can soften, so I recommend a cool, dry spot—this keeps that perfect snap in the chocolate shell.

Freezing

Freezing works wonderfully. Just layer the cookies between parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze up to a month. When I thaw them in the fridge overnight, they come back tasting just as fresh as the day I made them.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these cookies since they’re meant to be enjoyed cool, but if you’d like the caramel a bit softer before eating, I pop one in the microwave for about 5 seconds. Easy does it though—too long and the chocolate might melt!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe is a go-to for me anytime I want a quick, impressive treat that feels a little fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull off. I love how the textures and flavors play so beautifully together—the crisp crackers, the smooth caramel, the rich chocolate, and that perfect sprinkle of salt. If you try this recipe, I bet you’ll find yourself making it again and again—just like I do whenever I need a sweet pick-me-up or a crowd-pleasing gift. Give it a shot, and let me know how much you love it!

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