Name: Savory-Sweet Salted Caramel Cracker Bites Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups oyster crackers; 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks); 1 cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (high-quality preferred); 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon sea salt (for finishing sprinkle); nuts or chocolate chips (optional); pretzel crisps (for a twist)

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Introduction

These savory-sweet salted caramel cracker bites are a quick and delicious treat that combines crunchy oyster crackers with rich caramel and a touch of sea salt. Perfect for snacking or sharing, they come together in just a few simple steps.

A small white bowl filled with shiny caramel-coated crackers stacked in layers, showing a golden-brown color and a smooth glossy texture. Some crackers are placed neatly around the bowl on a blue and white checkered cloth. The background is a white marbled surface, with a soft blurred effect that keeps the focus on the bowl and crackers. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups oyster crackers
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
1 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (high-quality preferred)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon sea salt (for finishing sprinkle)
Nuts or chocolate chips (optional add-ins)
Pretzel crisps (for a twist)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Evenly spread the oyster crackers across the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and then add the brown sugar, stirring until combined.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 5: Remove from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon.
Step 6: Pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over the crackers, gently stirring to coat.
Step 7: Optionally, sprinkle nuts or chocolate chips over the top for added texture and flavor.
Step 8: Bake the coated crackers in the oven for 7-9 minutes, or until caramel is bubbling and crackers are toasted.
Step 9: Remove from oven, sprinkle with sea salt, and let cool completely before breaking into bite-sized pieces.

Tips & Variations

Try substituting pretzel crisps for oyster crackers for a salty twist and crunchier texture.
Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the caramel for a subtle heat.
Use dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.
Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for added crunch.
For chocolate lovers, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the caramel right after baking.

Storage

Store the cooled salted caramel cracker bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them dry to maintain crunch. Reheating is not necessary, but if you prefer them slightly warm, briefly microwave for 10 seconds.

How to Serve

The image shows many small golden brown pretzel crisps spread out on white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each pretzel piece is round with a rough crunchy texture and a shiny coating that looks like caramel or a sweet glaze, giving them a glossy appearance. The pieces are closely arranged but some overlap slightly, showing their uneven edges and sugary coating. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, pretzel crisps or other sturdy crackers work well and add a unique salty flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Keep a close eye on the caramel while it boils, stir constantly, and remove from heat as soon as it reaches a boil for 2-3 minutes. Using medium heat helps avoid scorching.