Save
Take plain oyster crackers to the next level with these Salted Caramel Cracker Bites. This mouthwatering snack pairs a rich buttery caramel with crunchy crackers, creating an addictive mix of flavors and textures that'll have you coming back for more.
When I first whipped these up, the amazing smell of caramel filled my home. Everyone in the family hung around the kitchen waiting for them to cool down. Even my caramel-skeptic husband couldn't stop grabbing handfuls.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Oyster crackers: Go for ones that snap nicely since their compact size and firmness make them perfect little bites
- Unsalted butter: Don't skimp here - good butter means better caramel flavor and smoothness
- Brown sugar: The darker kind gives you more of that deep, almost molasses-like taste
- Pure vanilla extract: Worth using the real stuff to add that extra layer of flavor
- Ground cinnamon: A pinch adds warmth and makes the whole thing smell amazing
- Sea salt: Those little flaky bits make all the difference as a topper
Foolproof Caramel Bite Steps
- Set Things Up:
- Heat your oven to 350°F and cover your baking sheet with parchment, then spread crackers out evenly.
- Mix Up Magic:
- Get butter melting in a pan over medium heat, then stir in brown sugar and vanilla until it's all smooth.
- Build Flavor:
- Let everything bubble for about 2-3 minutes while you keep stirring until it thickens up nicely.
- Cover Everything:
- Pour your caramel mixture all over those crackers and mix gently so they're all coated.
- Add Sparkle:
- Scatter sea salt on top before popping the tray in the oven for 7-9 minutes until they turn golden.
- Wind Down:
- Let everything cool completely as the caramel sets up and forms clusters.
Save
I can't get enough of that brown sugar coating. It reminds me of the homemade caramel popcorn my grandma would make, but it feels a bit fancier and grown-up.
Tasty Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these treats with your morning coffee or afternoon tea when friends drop by. They also taste amazing sprinkled over ice cream, adding both crunch and caramel goodness to your bowl.
Fun Ways To Mix It Up
Try tossing in some chopped pecans, adding a chocolate drizzle, or playing with different spices. During holidays, throw on some colorful sprinkles or crumble them over the top of brownies for extra texture.
Staying Fresh And Crispy
Keep your caramel bites in a sealed container at room temp for up to a week. Want to make them last longer? Stick them in the freezer in zip-top bags for three months and just let them sit out before you eat them.
I've made these so many times now and realized they're more than just a snack. They create little happy moments when people gather around. Everyone smiles when they grab a handful, whether at parties or just during quiet evenings at home.
Save
Recipe FAQs
- → How long can I keep these caramel bites fresh?
- Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, and they'll stay tasty.
- → Can I swap out the crackers?
- Sure thing! Try saltines or similar plain crackers, but adjust the recipe to coat them properly.
- → What went wrong with my caramel? It turned grainy.
- Too much stirring while it boils may be the culprit. Stir less once it starts bubbling to get smooth caramel.
- → Is freezing an option for these snacks?
- Yep! Seal them in an airtight container, freeze for 3 months, and bring them to room temp before enjoying.
- → How do I know the caramel is done?
- It’s ready when it’s thicker and turns a deep golden hue after 2-3 minutes of boiling.