Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

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There’s something truly magical about a holiday treat that brings both nostalgia and surprise to the table. These Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are everything a festive cookie should be: a balance of sweet and salty, crispy and gooey, simple yet indulgent. With a creamy caramel center tucked between buttery Ritz crackers and coated in silky white chocolate, every bite is a moment of cozy holiday joy.

Perfect for cookie exchanges, last-minute dessert trays, or just cozy nights by the fireplace, these cookies are incredibly easy to make and even easier to devour. Their festive sprinkles add a charming holiday flair, making them not only delicious but absolutely delightful to look at. They’re a no-bake treat that looks bakery-level and tastes like holiday cheer in every bite.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this addictive recipe, it’s helpful to gather your kitchen tools to make the process smooth and stress-free:

• Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler: This is essential for melting white chocolate evenly without burning. If you’re using a microwave, go low and slow.
• Fork or Dipping Tool: Helps you dip the cookies into melted chocolate while letting the excess drip off easily.
• Wax or Parchment Paper: Vital for letting your coated cookies set without sticking. It also makes clean-up a breeze.
• Small Spoon or Piping Bag: For adding the caramel filling with control and precision, minimizing mess.
• Baking Sheet: Use this as a flat, moveable surface to lay out your cookies while they chill or set.

Having everything prepped and within reach will make assembly a fun and festive part of your cookie-making tradition.

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Ingredients for the Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating that unforgettable sweet-salty crunch and creamy center. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ritz Crackers: The buttery, flaky base that sandwiches the gooey caramel. Their slight saltiness makes the sweetness pop.
• Soft Caramels: These melt down into that luscious center. Choose a quality brand for best texture and taste.
• Heavy Cream: Helps the caramels melt into a smooth, spreadable filling that holds its place between the crackers.
• White Chocolate or Almond Bark: This creates the outer coating that locks in the caramel goodness and adds a smooth sweetness.
• Holiday Sprinkles: Not just decorative—they add a light crunch and festive flair perfect for Christmas trays.

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How To Make the Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Create the Caramel Filling

Unwrap your soft caramels and place them in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl with a splash of heavy cream. Heat gently, stirring often, until the mixture becomes smooth and pourable.

Step 2: Assemble the Cookie Sandwiches

Lay out half of your Ritz crackers on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon or pipe a dollop of warm caramel onto each. Quickly top with another Ritz cracker and gently press to sandwich them together.

Step 3: Dip in White Chocolate

Melt your white chocolate or almond bark until smooth. Using a fork, dip each cookie sandwich into the chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Tap off any excess and return to the parchment.

Step 4: Decorate and Set

While the coating is still wet, immediately add holiday sprinkles on top. Let the cookies set at room temperature or chill briefly in the fridge until firm.

Step 5: Ready to Enjoy

Once set, transfer the cookies to a festive tin or tray. Serve immediately or store for gifting later!

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How to Serve and Store Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

These cookies are just as perfect for gifting as they are for snacking straight from the tray. To serve them at holiday gatherings, arrange them on a festive platter with a variety of textures—think chocolate-dipped pretzels, peppermint bark, and gingerbread. They’ll stand out with their white coating and colorful sprinkles.

To store, place the cookies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. You can stack them by layering parchment between each level. Keep them at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months—just be sure to bring them to room temp before serving so the caramel softens again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of caramels work best for this recipe?

Soft, chewy caramels like Kraft or Werther’s are great choices. Avoid hard or brittle caramel candies—they won’t melt smoothly.

Can I use milk or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk or dark chocolate adds a deeper flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramel. Go with your taste preference.

How do I keep the caramel from oozing out?

Let the caramel cool just slightly before sandwiching—this thickens it slightly and prevents drips. Also, avoid overfilling.

Do I need a candy thermometer for the caramel?

Nope! Since we’re melting store-bought caramels, a gentle microwave or stovetop heat is all you need. No candy science involved.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! These cookies actually taste even better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld. Make them 1–2 days ahead for parties or gifts.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Ritz crackers do contain gluten, but you can substitute with a gluten-free round buttery cracker to make them celiac-friendly.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If these Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies made your holiday sweeter, you’ll love these other fun treats from Life With Olivia:

• Whipped Shortbread Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe when you want a dessert that feels like a hug.
• No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies for creamy, simple indulgence.
• Brownie Mix Cookies Recipe for rich, chocolatey goodness with minimal effort.
• Easy Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting for a cozy spice-and-sweet combo.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try dipping them in dark chocolate? Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter and sweeter this holiday season.

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