Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking to delight your holiday guests with something truly special, these Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are exactly what you need. Imagine a crunchy buttery cracker hugged by silky dulce de leche, all wrapped in a luscious dark chocolate blanket with just a hint of flaky sea salt to make your taste buds sing. These little bites are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a stunning presentation that screams festive fun. Whether you’re gifting them or devouring them at your holiday party, these cookies will quickly become a beloved seasonal tradition you’ll want to make year after year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that festive feel. Every component brings something special to these irresistible treats.

• 60 round buttery crackers (such as Ritz®): The crisp, flaky base that offers the perfect buttery crunch to contrast the creamy filling and chocolate exterior.
• 1 cup canned dulce de leche: A rich, caramelized milk spread that adds indulgent sweetness and gooey texture at the heart of the cookie.
• 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips: These create a deep, complex chocolate flavor to coat the cookies beautifully.
• 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate melting wafers: Used alongside the chips for a smooth, shiny finish that’s easy to dip and sets perfectly.
• Flaky sea salt (optional): A sprinkle of this elevates the sweetness with a delicate salty crunch, balancing the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Crackers

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things tidy and prevent sticking. Arrange half of your buttery Ritz crackers on the sheet, placing each one bottom side up so the flat side will hold your dulce de leche filling perfectly.

Step 2: Add the Dulce de Leche Filling

Using a spoon, take a rounded teaspoon of dulce de leche and dollop it onto the center of each cracker on the baking sheet. This gooey caramel center is what makes these Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies so mouthwatering and satisfying.

Step 3: Sandwich and Chill

Gently top each dulce de leche-covered cracker with one of the remaining crackers, this time placing them top side up for a perfect sandwich look. Place the whole baking sheet in the refrigerator and let the sandwiches chill for at least 30 minutes—this helps the dulce de leche set so the treats stay neat when you dip them.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

Set up a double boiler on medium heat and melt together the dark chocolate chips and melting wafers, stirring occasionally until you have a smooth, glossy chocolate mixture. The combination ensures the chocolate is rich and fluid but will set nicely around the sandwiches.

Step 5: Dip and Decorate

Using a fork, carefully dip each cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Transfer them back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. If you want to add an extra festive touch, sprinkle each one lightly with flaky sea salt while the chocolate is still wet.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Pop the dipped cookies back into the refrigerator for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate has fully hardened. You’re left with beautifully coated cookie sandwiches that look as good as they taste — the perfect treat for any holiday occasion.

How to Serve Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Garnishes

While the cookies look stunning as is, you can add an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a snow-kissed effect. Crushed peppermint candy sprinkled lightly on top can introduce a fresh, minty crunch that enhances the festive spirit.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside warm beverages like rich hot chocolate, spiced chai, or freshly brewed coffee to create a cozy, inviting holiday snack spread. They also pair beautifully with creamy eggnog or a crisp glass of sparkling apple cider for a pop of celebratory flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies on a beautiful cake stand surrounded by fresh pine branches and red berries for a classic holiday centerpiece. You can also wrap a few in cellophane tied with festive ribbons to give as thoughtful, homemade gifts your friends and family will cherish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cookies keep best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to one week. The cool temperature helps maintain the chocolate’s crisp coating and keep the dulce de leche from becoming too soft.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, freeze the fully assembled and dipped cookies on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator to preserve their perfect texture.

Reheating

These cookies are best eaten chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating as the chocolate coating can melt and the crackers may lose their crunch. Instead, let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes if you prefer a softer bite.

FAQs

Can I use other types of crackers?

Absolutely! While Ritz crackers are classic for their buttery flavor and perfect size, you can experiment with other round buttery crackers. Just be sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking.

Is dulce de leche necessary, or can I substitute it?

Dulce de leche is key for that luscious caramel flavor, but if you can’t find it, caramel sauce or even thickened sweetened condensed milk might work. Just keep in mind that the texture and sweetness might vary slightly.

What kind of chocolate is best for dipping?

Dark chocolate chips combined with melting wafers create a smooth, glossy coating that hardens nicely. You could try semi-sweet chocolate, but dark chocolate offers a richer flavor that balances the sweet filling wonderfully.

Can I make these cookies nut-free and allergy-friendly?

This recipe is naturally nut-free, but always double-check your ingredients to ensure no cross-contamination. Using allergy-friendly chocolate and crackers will help keep these treats safe for everyone.

How long do the cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, they should maintain their best flavor and texture for up to one week, perfect for making ahead of holiday gatherings.

Final Thoughts

These Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are the kind of treat that instantly become a holiday staple. The combination of buttery, caramel, chocolate, and a hint of salt is pure magic that your family and friends will rave about. Give this recipe a try and watch these simple ingredients transform into unforgettable festive delights you’ll want to make again and again!

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