Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a snack that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors, look no further than these Salted Caramel Cracker Bites. This delightful treat is simple to make and incredibly addictive, featuring a mouthwatering combination of buttery caramel, crispy oyster crackers, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for any occasion, these bites are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
227 grams unsalted butter (2 sticks)
255 grams oyster crackers
10 ml vanilla extract
220 grams packed brown sugar
5 grams salt
1 gram cinnamon
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 19 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Follow this simple recipe to bring these savory-sweet Salted Caramel Cracker Bites to life in your kitchen! Enjoy them as an afternoon snack or a delightful dessert. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and irresistible for days.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Evenly spread the oyster crackers across the baking sheet, making sure they cover the surface without overlapping.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 227 grams of unsalted butter. Stir in the 220 grams of packed brown sugar, 10 ml of vanilla extract, and 1 gram of cinnamon. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and releases a warm, sweet aroma.
Step 3: Coat the Crackers
Pour the buttery caramel mixture evenly over the prepared oyster crackers. Use a spatula or spoon to ensure that every cracker is well-coated with the luscious mixture. Then, sprinkle 5 grams of salt over the top, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the sweetness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 7-9 minutes, or until the crackers are a beautiful golden brown. Watch them closely during this stage to prevent burning, as the sugary caramel can quickly turn from golden to burnt.
Step 5: Cool and Break Apart
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the caramel cracker bites cool completely on the sheet. As they cool, they will harden into delightful little bites. When cool, break them into pieces of your desired size and shape. Store in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crunch.
Notes
Storage Tips
Once your Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them crispy and delicious for several days.
Serving Suggestions
These treats make for an excellent snack on their own, but pairing them with a cup of coffee or tea elevates the experience. They also serve as a wonderful topping for ice cream or can be used in desserts like parfaits.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to customize the recipe with additional ingredients! Consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for added texture and flavor.
Cook Techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to ensure an even baking temperature, helping the crackers to toast uniformly.
Melt the Butter Properly
Melt the butter over medium heat to avoid burning. Stir constantly to achieve a smooth consistency before adding other ingredients.
Simmering the Caramel
Allow the caramel mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken, which enhances its flavor and texture.
Coating the Crackers
Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the crackers, using a spatula to ensure that each cracker is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Baking with Care
Keep a close eye on the crackers while they bake, as they can go from golden to burnt quickly in the oven.
Cooling Completely
Let the mixture cool completely on the baking sheet to ensure it firms up properly before breaking it into pieces.
FAQ
Can I use other types of crackers?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of crackers, but oyster crackers give a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
How should I store the Salted Caramel Cracker Bites?
Store the bites in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and provide extra texture.
How long do these treats stay fresh?
When stored properly, they can remain fresh for up to a week, but they may lose some crunch over time.
Is it possible to make a smaller batch?
Yes, you can easily halve the ingredients to make a smaller batch to suit your needs.
Conclusion
The Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are an incredibly simple yet decadent treat that brings together the harmonious flavors of sweet and salty. With their buttery richness and crunchy texture, these bites are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a delightful snack anytime you desire a quick indulgence. Their easy preparation means you can enjoy these delicious morsels in no time, making them a must-try for any dessert lover.
Chocolate Drizzle Variation
Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled cracker bites for an extra layer of sweetness and a rich chocolaty flavor.
Nutty Crunch Addition
Mix in chopped nuts such as pecans, almonds, or peanuts before baking to introduce a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the bites.
Spiced Pumpkin Variation
Incorporate pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers for a fall-inspired treat that reflects seasonal flavors.
Coconut Bliss Version
Fold in shredded coconut along with the butter mixture before pouring it over the crackers to create a tropical twist with a hint of sweetness.
Mini Cheesecake Bites
Top the baked cracker bites with a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a cheesecake mixture for a delicious mini dessert option that’s rich and creamy.
