Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

Salted caramel cracker bites is perfect for any occasion and easy to make at home. This recipe transforms simple oyster crackers into a crunchy sweet treat with that delicious balance of sugary caramel and a pop of salt. Whether you crave a party snack or a homemade gift, these bite-sized treats hit all the right notes.

I was first introduced to these cracker bites at a school bake sale and they disappeared in minutes. Now I make double batches for every family birthday because everyone insists on their own bag.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Oyster crackers: the foundation of the bite lightweight and crunchy opt for a fresh unopened bag for ultimate crispness
• Butter: brings that smooth melt-in-your-mouth texture quality matters so use real unsalted butter
• Brown sugar: gives warmth and depth to the caramel sauce choose dark brown for richer flavor
• Vanilla extract: rounds out the sweet notes real vanilla extract makes a difference
• Salt: counterbalances all the sweetness use flaky or kosher salt for the best pop

How to Make It

Prep the Sheet:

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze

Spread the Crackers:

Evenly scatter the oyster crackers across the sheet in a single layer so each piece gets coated

Make the Caramel:

In a saucepan melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat stir constantly as it comes to a gentle boil this takes about six minutes the mixture should look glossy and a little bubbly

Flavor the Caramel:

Right after removing from heat add vanilla extract and salt to the hot caramel stir quickly so everything dissolves instantly

Coat the Crackers:

Pour the hot caramel evenly over the crackers use a heatproof spatula to toss so every piece gets some of that sweet sauce

Bake Until Golden:

Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about ten to twelve minutes pausing halfway to gently stir so the caramel bakes evenly and nothing burns watch for a glossy golden color

Cool and Break:

Let everything cool completely on the pan as it firms up then break the bites apart into clusters and serve when fully set

My favorite part is the salty burst you get with every other bite. It reminds me of making Christmas tins for our neighbors with my kids when our kitchen would smell like caramel all day.

Flavor Boosters

Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika for a background warmth. Stir in toasted coconut or a few dark chocolate chips for an extra-special batch. For autumn, add a dash of pumpkin pie spice, and during the holidays a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy works beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Let them cool and pile into jars for edible gifts. Serve alongside ice cream sundaes for an irresistible topping, or mix with roasted nuts or chocolate chips for a special snack mix. My family loves to snack on them while playing board games for an out-of-the-ordinary treat.

Creative Twists

Swap oyster crackers for mini pretzels or plain popcorn for a nut-free batch, or mix maple syrup with brown sugar for a twist on the classic flavor. In spring or summer, try a light dusting of lemon zest once the bites are cooled. If allergies are a concern, you can replace the butter with a good plant-based margarine.

Homemade caramel cracker bites always bring smiles and requests for more. Store in jars or freeze for whenever you need a sweet and salty pick-me-up.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use other crackers besides oyster crackers?

Yes, mini pretzels or saltine crackers work well and add a slightly different texture to the finished bites.

→ How do I store caramel cracker bites?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they stay crisp.

→ Can you make these in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare them a day or two ahead for events—they maintain their crunch and flavor well.

→ Is it possible to add nuts or spices?

Chopped nuts like pecans or a pinch of cinnamon can be stirred into the caramel for extra depth.

→ Why did my caramel turn grainy?

Graininess usually occurs if the sugar isn't dissolved fully. Stir constantly and use medium heat for smooth caramel.