Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe

Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe

Recipe: Dulce de Leche and Chocolate Cracker Sandwiches

Ingredients:

  • 60 round buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
  • 1 cup canned dulce de leche
  • 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips
  • 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate melting wafers
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Directions:

  1. Gather all ingredients and prepare your workspace.
  2. Arrange half of the crackers, bottom sides up, on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Spoon a rounded teaspoon of dulce de leche onto the center of each cracker.
  4. Top each with the remaining crackers, top sides up. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  5. In the top of a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips and melting wafers over medium heat, stirring occasionally until smooth.
  6. Using a fork, dip the cracker sandwiches into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl.
  7. Return the chocolate-coated sandwiches to the prepared baking sheet. If desired, lightly sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  8. Chill the sandwiches in the refrigerator for 15 minutes or until the chocolate has set.
  9. Store the finished cookies in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 164
  • Total Fat: 8g (10% Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 4g (18% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 5mg (2% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 93mg (4% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 21g (7% Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
  • Total Sugars: 13g
  • Protein: 2g (4% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 51mg (4% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 1mg (7% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 146mg (3% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutritional information is not available for all ingredients. For specific dietary concerns, consult a doctor or registered dietitian.

Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe

Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors, making them an irresistible treat. These no-bake cookies combine the crunch of Ritz crackers with the rich, gooey caramel flavor of dulce de leche, all covered in a layer of smooth dark chocolate. This simple yet indulgent snack is perfect for a quick dessert or a festive gift. But how did these cookies come to be? Lets explore their origin, regional variations, and what sets them apart from similar treats.

History of Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies

The Salted Caramel Ritz Cookie is a modern American invention, likely born out of the popularity of salted caramel flavors in the early 21st century. The combination of sweet and salty tastes has been a growing trend in the culinary world, and these cookies capitalize on that flavor profile. The use of Ritz crackers as a base for the sandwich-style cookie adds a unique twist, turning the classic savory snack into a sweet dessert. The addition of dulce de leche, a caramel-like milk-based spread, elevates the cookie to new heights of decadence, making it a favorite for dessert lovers everywhere.

Regional Variations and Features

While the basic structure of Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies remains the same, some regional variations exist based on local preferences for chocolate or caramel. In some areas, people may swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate or even use white chocolate for a different flavor. In places where dulce de leche is not readily available, other caramel fillings, such as homemade caramel or caramel sauce, can be used as a substitute. Similarly, the use of flaky sea salt may be adjusted according to taste, with some opting for a heavier sprinkle of salt for an enhanced contrast between sweet and salty.

How Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Compare to Similar Treats

At first glance, Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies may seem similar to other no-bake cookie recipes, such as chocolate-covered pretzels or caramel-covered crackers. However, what makes these cookies stand out is their combination of textures and flavors. The crispness of the Ritz crackers provides a perfect counterbalance to the smoothness of the chocolate and the soft sweetness of the dulce de leche. The salty finish from the sea salt adds an extra layer of sophistication that sets them apart from more traditional cookie recipes. Moreover, the sandwich format makes them easier to handle and adds a sense of indulgence that is often absent in simpler treats.

Where Are These Cookies Typically Served?

Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies are often served as a crowd-pleasing treat during holiday gatherings, parties, or as a homemade gift. Their no-bake nature makes them an ideal choice for those looking for a quick yet impressive dessert. These cookies can also be found at bake sales or as part of a dessert platter at family gatherings. Due to their rich, decadent flavor, they are typically served in smaller portions, making them a perfect accompaniment to coffee or dessert wine. Whether you're hosting a celebration or simply treating yourself, these cookies will always make a statement.

Interesting Facts About Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies

  • These cookies are incredibly easy to make and require no baking, making them a great last-minute dessert option.
  • Ritz crackers, the base for this cookie, were first introduced in 1934 by Nabisco and have since become a popular snack worldwide.
  • The trend of salted caramel started gaining traction in the early 2000s, and it quickly became a favorite in both sweet and savory dishes.
  • Many variations of this cookie can be found, from using different fillings like Nutella or peanut butter to experimenting with white chocolate coatings.

Whether you're making them for a holiday gathering or simply indulging in a sweet snack, Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings for both sweet and salty flavors. This simple yet delicious treat has earned its place as a modern dessert classic, beloved by many for its unique combination of ingredients and ease of preparation.

FAQ about Salted Caramel Ritz Cookies Recipe

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Yes, you can prepare the cookies up to the point of dipping them in chocolate. Once assembled, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

You can substitute Dulce de Leche with other spreads like caramel sauce, almond butter, or even Biscoff spread for a different flavor.

Yes, these cookies can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them initially, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.

The cookies should chill for at least 30 minutes after assembling the crackers with dulce de leche. After dipping in chocolate, chill them again for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate is set.

Yes, you can use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate. However, the flavor profile will be sweeter and less intense.

For best results, use buttery crackers like Ritz. Their flavor and texture work well with the caramel and chocolate. Avoid using overly salty or crunchy crackers as they may overpower the other flavors.

Yes! You can add toppings such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or drizzle extra caramel over the chocolate for added texture and flavor.

It takes about 20 minutes to prepare the cookies, and then you need to allow an additional 45 minutes for chilling and setting the chocolate. So, the total time is approximately 65 minutes.

Yes, you can experiment with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolates like hazelnut or peanut butter. Just ensure the chocolate is meltable and smooth for dipping.

Comments

SilverTea6384

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I’ve made these before and they are delicious and will last forever if stored in a airtight container.

bcgirl

04/11/2025 11:59:06 PM

Just one tip! End result YUM! BUT... the Dulce does not come out of the can like that, it is way runnier and it made a mess putting these together. I also used almost a cup less chocolate and it was plenty. I did get the job done and they look great and taste delicious. The salt is definitley required it's delicious on these. I will make these again but I will put the dulce in the freezer to thicken it, then build the cookies and return them back to the freezer while chocolate melts. I will make way more next time. So so good.

SoapyGlass3449

12/07/2024 02:01:23 AM

I used two cups each of the wafers and morsels and a full 11.8 ounce box of Ritz crackers. My wife and I both give the finished product high marks. Great flavor & texture. Keep them cold as they quickly melt in your fingers. We’re gonna give many away as holiday treats!

Christina

11/14/2024 08:21:39 PM

I mean, you can't go wrong with this list of ingredients! I used milk chocolate in place of the dark, but that was my only change. Will definitely be adding this to the Christmas baking list!

cyndisimms

12/19/2024 07:19:22 PM

Super easy and delish! It's tough to find dulce de leche - worth it if you can track it down, though. I suspect you could put any kind of middle in - I made a few with Biscoff spread just to try and they were equally yummy! And now I know that the fork is the key to dipping in chocolate! That's a win too!

flipmv

03/15/2025 12:00:11 PM

I used almond butter in place of dulce de leche, which was great. Much less sweet overall.

Lela

11/19/2024 04:42:34 PM

What's not to like about chocolate and caramel? My family loved the the recipe. I used a teaspoon measuring spoon and a small spatula to add the dulce de leche to the crackers. It takes some time to make these crackers, but it is worth the effort.

Linda Hernandez

10/23/2024 05:00:53 AM

Such a reliable and delicious recipe.