Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are the kind of sweet treat I rely on every December when things are hectic but I still want to bring something joyful to a cookie platter. The magic of these cookies is all in their simplicity crunchy Ritz crackers sandwiching gooey caramel then dunked in creamy white chocolate with a little sparkle from festive sprinkles. It is the perfect last minute holiday dessert that gets rave reviews every single year

I started making these cookies because I needed something fun for a holiday party that was quick and used up what I had in my cabinets they turned out to be the most talked about treat and now my friends text me every December asking if I’ll bring them again

Gather Your Ingredients

• Ritz crackers: provide a salty crunch and make the perfect base pick the classic buttery kind and check for freshness
• Caramel sauce or melted caramel candies: become the sweet gooey filling aim for a thick caramel that does not run everywhere
• White chocolate chips or white candy melts: bring that festive coating choose a name brand for smooth melting and creamy taste
• Vegetable oil: helps thin the chocolate for the ideal dipping texture use a neutral oil for best results
• Red white and green festive sprinkles: add holiday cheer look for good quality sprinkles that will not bleed colors when added to chocolate

How to Make It

Prepare the Setup:

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and arrange all your ingredients nearby for an efficient assembly

Assemble the Caramel Sandwiches:

Lay out half of the Ritz crackers flat side up on the prepared sheet Spread a generous spoonful of caramel sauce on each then top with a second cracker to form sandwiches Press gently to secure but do not squeeze out the caramel

Melt the White Chocolate:

In a heatproof bowl melt the white chocolate chips with the vegetable oil Use a microwave in short bursts of twenty seconds stirring between each until completely smooth and glossy or do this in a double boiler for more control

Coat the Sandwiches:

Drop each caramel filled cookie into the melted chocolate Use two forks to turn and fully coat Lift out letting excess chocolate drip off and immediately place the cookie back onto the parchment paper

Decorate for the Holidays:

Sprinkle the top of each freshly dipped cookie with festive sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet so they stick well Work quickly so the chocolate does not set before decorating

Let the Cookies Set:

Let the cookies sit at room temperature for about twenty minutes or until the chocolate coating is firm and not tacky to the touch For quicker results slide the tray into the refrigerator

My favorite part about these cookies is using sparkly sprinkles that my grandmother gave me which makes each batch feel more festive My kids get so excited to pick which sprinkles go on each cookie and it has turned into a fun annual tradition

Flavor Boosters

Chill your caramel sandwiches before dipping to make chocolate coating cleaner and easier Add a touch of sea salt on top if you love an extra salty caramel bite Allow plenty of space between cookies on the tray so the chocolate edges set smoothly

Serving Suggestions

These cookies make the perfect pairing for hot cocoa or mulled cider Arrange on a holiday platter with other small treats like chocolate covered pretzels and peppermint bark They can be packaged individually in clear bags or little boxes for homemade edible gifts

Creative Twists

If you only have caramel candies melt them gently with a splash of cream for spreading Milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips can be swapped for white chocolate to change up the flavor or color theme Try gluten free crackers if you are baking for friends with allergies Switch out the sprinkles for pastel shapes and they become an easy Easter treat Use orange and black decorations for Halloween parties Rainbow nonpareils work for birthdays and other celebrations

If you love holiday baking that brings both flavor and memories these cookies belong in your recipe tin No one ever guesses how easy they are to make which is just one more thing to love

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought sauce?

Yes, homemade caramel can be used for a richer flavor and smoother texture. Just ensure it’s cooled slightly for easy spreading.

→ How do I melt white chocolate chips smoothly?

Melt white chocolate chips with the vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds to prevent overheating or seizing.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them.

→ Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few days in advance. Wait to add sprinkles until the coating is slightly set to ensure they stick well.

→ Are there other topping options besides sprinkles?

Try crushed candy canes, toasted nuts, or drizzle with semisweet chocolate for a creative twist and added texture.