Creamy Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies
These dangerously easy holiday cookies feature creamy caramel sandwiched between buttery Ritz crackers, all dipped in smooth chocolate and finished with festive toppings. Perfect for potlucks, gifting, or cozy family gatherings, they deliver nostalgic comfort in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 48 Ritz crackers (classic, round, buttery)
- 24 caramel candies (such as Kraft or Werther’s chewy caramels)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 12 ounces semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
- Sprinkles or crushed candy canes (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with wax or parchment paper and gather all ingredients.
- Unwrap 24 caramel candies and place in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Microwave on 50% power for 30 seconds, stir, then continue in 15-second bursts until smooth (1–2 minutes total). Alternatively, melt gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Lay out 24 Ritz crackers, flat side up. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel onto each cracker. Top with another Ritz cracker, pressing gently to create a sandwich.
- Place assembled sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
- In a clean microwave-safe bowl, combine 12 ounces chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy. Alternatively, melt using a double boiler over simmering water.
- Using two forks, dip each cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate, turning to coat. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing back on the baking sheet.
- Immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt, festive sprinkles, or crushed candy canes before chocolate sets.
- Refrigerate dipped cookies for 20–30 minutes, until chocolate is firm. For faster setting, freeze for 10 minutes.
- Once set, transfer cookies to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Notes
For gluten-free, use gluten-free buttery round crackers and certified gluten-free caramel candies. Dairy-free options include coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate chips. Chill sandwiches before dipping to keep crackers crisp. Decorate quickly before chocolate sets. Cookies keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months. Let cookies sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for a softer caramel center.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 1
Keywords: Christmas cookies, caramel, Ritz cracker cookies, holiday treats, easy dessert, chocolate dipped cookies, potluck, festive cookies, edible gifts