Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

Posted on May 8, 2025

If you’re craving a sweet-and-salty treat that’s dangerously addictive and ridiculously easy to make, these Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are your new best friend. Think buttery caramel layered over crispy crackers, all topped with melted chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt. They’re the kind of no-fuss dessert that looks fancy but comes together in under 20 minutes. Perfect for parties, gifting, or late-night snacking—these little bites will disappear fast!

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Why You’ll Love Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

These Salted Caramel Cracker Bites check all the boxes: they’re fast, fun, and fabulously delicious. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated steps—just a few pantry staples and a little bit of stirring magic. The salty-sweet combo hits all the right notes, and the crunchy texture is pure satisfaction. They’re also super customizable, making them a go-to recipe for holiday trays, bake sales, or cozy movie nights. Trust us, once you make a batch, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home. They come together to create layers of buttery caramel, crispy crackers, and melty chocolate with just the right touch of salt.

You’ll Need:

40 salted square crackers (like Saltines)
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Flaky sea salt, for topping

Optional Add-ins: chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or crushed pretzels for extra texture!

Instructions

Making Salted Caramel Cracker Bites is surprisingly simple and satisfying. Follow these easy steps and you’ll have a tray of irresistible bites cooling in no time!

Step-by-Step Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Arrange the crackers in a single layer, edge to edge.
Melt the butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for 3 minutes, stirring often.
Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the crackers. Use a spatula to spread it out if needed.
Bake in the oven for 5 minutes, just until the caramel is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer. Let them sit for a minute to melt.
Spread the melted chocolate with a spatula until smooth.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt (and any other toppings you like).
Cool completely, then break or cut into bite-sized pieces.

Servings and Timing

These Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are the ultimate make-ahead treat that’s ready in a flash!

Here’s what to expect:

Servings: Makes about 35–40 bite-sized pieces, depending on how you break or cut them.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes (3 minutes for the caramel, 5 minutes in the oven)
Cooling Time: About 30–60 minutes, or until set

Tips and Variations

Want to make these Salted Caramel Cracker Bites your own? Here are some fun ways to customize and perfect your batch:

Tips:

Line your pan well with parchment or foil for easy cleanup and effortless removal.
Stir the caramel constantly to avoid burning—once it starts bubbling, watch it closely!
Let them cool completely before breaking—this helps them set properly and stay crisp.

Variations:

Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts over the melted chocolate.
Sweet & Salty Pretzel Mix: Swap crackers for pretzel snaps for an extra salty twist.
Holiday Touch: Add crushed peppermint or festive sprinkles for a seasonal spin.
Drizzle Alert: Drizzle white chocolate over the top once set for extra flair.

Storage

These bites store beautifully, making them perfect for prepping ahead or gifting to friends.

How to Store:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Keep them in a cool, dry spot to prevent melting.
Refrigerator: If your kitchen runs warm, pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay crisp and fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: Yes, you can freeze them! Layer with parchment in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temp before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Ritz crackers instead of Saltines?

Absolutely! Ritz adds a buttery flavor and works just as well.

My caramel looks grainy—what went wrong?

Grainy caramel usually means the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved. Make sure to stir constantly and boil just until smooth.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based version.

Do I need a candy thermometer?

Nope! This recipe is super simple and doesn’t require one—just watch for that bubbling stage.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just use a larger baking sheet or two trays, and be sure to spread the caramel quickly while it’s hot.

Why didn’t my chocolate chips melt?

They may need a little extra warmth. If they don’t melt fully, pop the tray back in the oven for 1–2 minutes.

Can I use white chocolate instead?

Of course! White chocolate adds a creamy sweetness and looks great with festive toppings.

Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are the kind of treat that brings big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, a sweet gift, or just to satisfy your snack craving, they never disappoint. With that perfect balance of salty, sweet, crunchy, and gooey, it’s no wonder these bites are a crowd favorite.

Craving more tasty recipes? Follow @butteryrecipes on Pinterest and Facebook for daily inspiration!

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