Salted Caramel Cracker Bites Recipe
Introduction
Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are a delightful sweet and salty snack that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. These crunchy treats combine buttery caramel with a hint of cinnamon and salt for an irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 (9 oz) package oyster crackers
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Spread the oyster crackers evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3: In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring to a boil for 2–3 minutes.
- Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Step 5: Pour the caramel mixture over the oyster crackers and toss gently to coat all the crackers evenly.
- Step 6: Bake the coated crackers for 10–12 minutes, stirring halfway through baking to ensure even coating.
- Step 7: Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheet, then break apart and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the caramel before baking.
- If you prefer a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel sauce.
- Use different flavored extracts such as almond or maple instead of vanilla for a unique flavor.
- Make sure to stir the caramel constantly to prevent burning and achieve a smooth sauce.
Storage
Store the cooled Salted Caramel Cracker Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If they soften, you can crisp them by warming briefly in a low oven before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes, while oyster crackers work best due to their size and texture, you can substitute with saltine crackers or even pretzel pieces for a different flavor and crunch.
How do I prevent the caramel from burning?
Stir the butter and brown sugar mixture constantly over medium heat and remove from heat as soon as it boils for a few minutes to avoid burning the sugar.
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Salted Caramel Cracker Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Description
Deliciously sweet and crunchy Salted Caramel Cracker Bites featuring oyster crackers coated in a rich, buttery caramel glaze with hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and a touch of salt. Perfect for a quick snack or party treat.
Ingredients
Cracker Base
- 1 (9 oz) package oyster crackers
Caramel Coating
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Crackers: Spread the oyster crackers evenly across the prepared baking sheet to ensure they cook consistently and get coated well.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes to create a smooth, thick caramel.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to infuse warm flavor notes and balance the sweetness.
- Coat Crackers: Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the spread oyster crackers. Toss or stir gently to coat each cracker thoroughly with the caramel.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even caramelization and prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the caramel cracker bites to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break apart any clusters and serve as a sweet, crunchy snack.
Notes
- Make sure to stir the caramel constantly while boiling to avoid burning and achieve a smooth texture.
- Use parchment paper to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Once cooled, store in an airtight container to maintain crispiness.
- You can adjust the amount of salt if you prefer a sweeter or more savory bite.
- For a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: salted caramel, oyster crackers, caramel cracker bites, sweet snack, holiday treat, crispy caramel snacks
