Salted Caramel Cracker Bites

Sweet, Salty, Buttery Bliss in Every Crunchy Cluster

Description:

If you’re looking for a quick and addictive treat that’s perfect for parties, holiday gifting, or an easy sweet snack, these Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are it. Made with buttery oyster crackers, a luscious homemade caramel sauce, and a hint of cinnamon, this snack is sweet, salty, crunchy, and completely irresistible. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples.

Quick Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 29 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories: ~280 kcal per serving

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 bag (9 oz) oyster crackers

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Spread the oyster crackers out in a single, even layer.

Time: 5 minutes

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Stir in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon.
Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, for about 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened and bubbling.

Time: 5 minutes

Tip: Don’t walk away — caramel can burn quickly!

Step 3: Coat the Crackers

Pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over the oyster crackers.
Use a spatula or spoon to gently toss or spread the caramel, ensuring every cracker is well-coated.

Time: 2 minutes

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 7 to 9 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling and the crackers are golden.
Keep a close eye in the last minute or two to avoid burning.

Time: 9 minutes

Step 5: Cool and Break into Clusters

Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
Once fully cooled and set, break into bite-sized clusters.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Cooling Time: 15 minutes

Tips & Variations

Add-ins: Sprinkle in chopped pecans, mini chocolate chips, or a pinch of sea salt flakes after baking.
Spicy twist: Add a dash of cayenne or chili powder to the caramel for sweet heat.
Holiday version: Use pumpkin pie spice or drizzle with white chocolate for a festive flair.
Kid-friendly: Leave out the salt and use cinnamon sugar for a sweeter flavor profile.

Storage

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. These bites also make excellent holiday gifts — just pack them into cellophane bags or tins!