Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

Sweet caramel meets salty crunch in these irresistible Salted Caramel Cracker Bites. The recipe turns basic oyster crackers into addictive clusters of golden goodness with the help of simple pantry staples and just a little love. If you love that classic sweet and salty combo, this one is perfect for snack time or sharing at parties.

I made these for a spur of the moment movie night and was amazed at how fast the bowl disappeared. Ever since then, my family always asks for these when we want something quick and special.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Use good quality butter for rich caramel flavor high quality butter melts smoothly
• Oyster crackers: These are the star for the perfect crunch choose fresh crackers with no staleness
• Brown sugar: Packed tightly for the right caramel result fresh moist brown sugar gives the best depth
• Vanilla extract: Real vanilla gives the caramel an aromatic lift avoid imitation if possible
• Salt: Brings out sweet and savory notes flake salt finishes with a pop
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice make sure yours is aromatic and not expired

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Preheat:

Spread the oyster crackers in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet then heat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit After prepping the tray the crackers are ready to soak up the caramel

Make the Caramel:

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan on medium heat then stir in the brown sugar vanilla extract salt and cinnamon Whisk well and let it simmer for a couple minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and you see little bubbles forming The goal is to dissolve the sugar completely and bloom the spices for complexity

Coat the Crackers:

Immediately and carefully pour the hot caramel all over the crackers on the tray Use a spatula to toss or gently spread so every cracker is glossy and coated The caramel cools fast so work quickly but be gentle to avoid crushing the crackers

Bake:

Slide the tray into your hot oven and bake for about seven to nine minutes Keep an eye on it at the end so the caramel gets amber and bubbly but not too dark or burnt The aroma will tell you when it is just right

Cool and Break:

Remove from the oven and let the tray cool completely so the caramel sets and gets crisp This can take up to fifteen minutes Once totally cool break into chunky bite sized clusters Enjoy right away or stash in a sealed jar

Pin it

I especially love how the cinnamon makes the house smell warm and cozy My little niece once called these “cookie crackles” and she was right because nobody could have just one

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in a sealed airtight container at room temperature for up to a week Do not refrigerate or the caramel may get sticky For longer storage add a little parchment between layers to prevent clumping

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use mini pretzels or bagel chips in place of oyster crackers if you want a twist on texture If you like extra sweetness a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract works great

Pin it

Serving Suggestions

These make a perfect after school snack or late night treat I love packing them in little bags for road trips or setting them out with ice cream for a crunchy topping They are always a hit on a holiday dessert tray

Cultural Touch

Caramel covered crackers are a clever homemade riff on classic party mixes and even old school cracker jack The recipe is easy to personalize and always gives nostalgic comfort food vibes

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, mini saltines or similar bite-sized crackers work well in place of oyster crackers.

→ How do I keep them from sticking together?

Allow the caramel crackers to fully cool and break them apart gently before storing in an airtight container.

→ Can I add nuts or chocolate?

Absolutely! Mix in chopped pecans, almonds, or drizzle melted chocolate after baking for extra flavor.

→ How long do these stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for up to a week.

→ Is there a dairy-free substitute for the butter?

You can use dairy-free margarine or plant-based butter to achieve similar caramelization results.

→ What's the best way to serve these?

Serve as a snack, dessert topping, or package them for homemade gifts during the holidays.