The aroma of caramelized sugar swirling through a warm kitchen is a scent that sticks to your soul. It carries with it the memory of cozy winter afternoons and festive family gatherings, where joy bubbles just as sweetly as the sugar in the pan. These Extra Salted Caramel Bites are more than a treat—they’re a love letter to simple pleasures, a celebration of contrast and comfort, and a secret weapon for making anyone’s day just a little brighter.
This recipe has been passed around like a precious gift during the holiday season in my family. My aunt first made them for our New Year’s get-together, piling the golden squares onto a wooden tray alongside mugs of hot cocoa and slices of cinnamon loaf. They vanished within minutes. Every bite is a layered wonder—crisp, buttery crackers hold up molten brown sugar caramel, topped with velvety chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt that makes your taste buds sing.
It’s a humble dessert, but one that feels like magic. The best part? You don’t need to be a pastry chef to pull it off. Whether you’re preparing for a bake sale, creating homemade gifts, or simply craving a sweet‑salty bite with your afternoon tea, these Extra Salted Caramel Bites promise a bit of decadence with every crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A Sweet-Salty Masterpiece – The blend of buttery crackers, rich caramel, and salted chocolate satisfies every craving in one bite.
- Quick & Foolproof – No candy thermometer needed. This is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
- Minimal Ingredients – You likely have everything in your pantry already.
- Great for Gifting – Wrap them in parchment and ribbon, and they make the most delightful homemade gift.
- Customizable – Add your own twist with chopped nuts, dark chocolate, or even crushed candy canes.
Extra Salted Caramel Bites
Description
The aroma of caramelized sugar swirling through a warm kitchen is a scent that sticks to your soul. It carries with it the memory of cozy winter afternoons and festive family gatherings, where joy bubbles just as sweetly as the sugar in the pan. These Extra Salted Caramel Bites are more than a treat—they’re a love letter to simple pleasures, a celebration of contrast and comfort, and a secret weapon for making anyone’s day just a little brighter.
This recipe has been passed around like a precious gift during the holiday season in my family. My aunt first made them for our New Year’s get-together, piling the golden squares onto a wooden tray alongside mugs of hot cocoa and slices of cinnamon loaf. They vanished within minutes. Every bite is a layered wonder—crisp, buttery crackers hold up molten brown sugar caramel, topped with velvety chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt that makes your taste buds sing.
It’s a humble dessert, but one that feels like magic. The best part? You don’t need to be a pastry chef to pull it off. Whether you’re preparing for a bake sale, creating homemade gifts, or simply craving a sweet‑salty bite with your afternoon tea, these Extra Salted Caramel Bites promise a bit of decadence with every crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve (about 40) buttery round crackers (like Ritz)
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp flaky sea salt (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat—this step is essential to ensure your caramel bites lift off easily.
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Lay out the crackers. Arrange them edge-to-edge in a single layer across your baking sheet. Try not to leave any gaps—this helps the caramel coat evenly.
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Make the caramel. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until fully combined. Once the mixture begins to bubble, continue to stir constantly for 3 minutes. The color will deepen and it will smell nutty and rich. This is where the magic begins.
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Add vanilla and pour. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract (careful—it might sizzle). Immediately pour the hot caramel evenly over the crackers. Use a spatula or offset knife to gently spread it, covering all the edges.
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Bake. Pop the tray into the oven for 8–10 minutes. Watch closely as the caramel bubbles and thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to darken slightly and the caramel looks set.
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Top with chocolate. Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let them sit for 1–2 minutes so they melt, then spread the chocolate into an even layer using the back of a spoon.
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Salt and cool. While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt. Let the tray cool at room temperature for about 30–40 minutes, or chill it in the fridge for faster setting.
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Break and enjoy. Once the chocolate is set and the caramel has firmed, break the sheet into rustic bite-sized pieces. Try not to eat them all at once!
Notes
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You can swap buttery crackers for saltines if needed, though the flavor will be slightly different.
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These bites are perfect for potlucks and cookie exchanges—easy to transport and universally loved.
-
The flaky sea salt really enhances the flavors, so don’t skip it!
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 1 sleeve (about 40) buttery round crackers (like Ritz)
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp flaky sea salt (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
HOW TO MAKE EXTRA SALTED CARAMEL BITES
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat—this step is essential to ensure your caramel bites lift off easily.
- Lay out the crackers. Arrange them edge-to-edge in a single layer across your baking sheet. Try not to leave any gaps—this helps the caramel coat evenly.
- Make the caramel. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until fully combined. Once the mixture begins to bubble, continue to stir constantly for 3 minutes. The color will deepen and it will smell nutty and rich. This is where the magic begins.
- Add vanilla and pour. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract (careful—it might sizzle). Immediately pour the hot caramel evenly over the crackers. Use a spatula or offset knife to gently spread it, covering all the edges.
- Bake. Pop the tray into the oven for 8–10 minutes. Watch closely as the caramel bubbles and thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to darken slightly and the caramel looks set.
- Top with chocolate. Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let them sit for 1–2 minutes so they melt, then spread the chocolate into an even layer using the back of a spoon.
- Salt and cool. While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt. Let the tray cool at room temperature for about 30–40 minutes, or chill it in the fridge for faster setting.
- Break and enjoy. Once the chocolate is set and the caramel has firmed, break the sheet into rustic bite-sized pieces. Try not to eat them all at once!
HELPFUL TIPS
- Use parchment paper to avoid sticky clean-ups and ensure perfect pieces every time.
- Don’t walk away from the stove while making the caramel. Stirring constantly prevents burning.
- Want a richer chocolate flavor? Use dark or semi-sweet chips instead of milk.
- Add toppings! Crushed pistachios, pecans, or even a light drizzle of white chocolate add variety and elegance.
DETAILS
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including cooling)
- Yield: About 24 pieces
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
NOTES
- You can swap buttery crackers for saltines if needed, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- These bites are perfect for potlucks and cookie exchanges—easy to transport and universally loved.
- The flaky sea salt really enhances the flavors, so don’t skip it!
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (Per Piece Approx.)
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 100mg
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make these Extra Salted Caramel Bites ahead of time?
Yes, they keep beautifully. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Do I need to refrigerate them to set the chocolate?
No, but it helps speed things up. If you’re in a rush, 20–30 minutes in the fridge will do.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
Why is my caramel grainy?
It’s important to stir constantly and melt the sugar completely. Avoid high heat and stick to medium for best results.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
Once cooled and broken into pieces, store your Extra Salted Caramel Bites in an airtight container. They’ll keep at room temperature for 4–5 days or refrigerated for up to two weeks. For long-term storage, freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper.
Related Recipes
If you liked these Extra Salted Caramel Bites, you’ll definitely enjoy:
- Salted Caramel Macarons – A French Classic with a Sweet-Salty Twist
- Choco Cheesecake Cookie Bites
- Salted Caramel Truffles
Conclusion
These Extra Salted Caramel Bites aren’t just a sweet snack—they’re a moment of joy, a memory in the making, and a reminder that the best things often come in small, simple packages. They’re the kind of treat you bring to a gathering and never leave with leftovers. Once you make them, they’re bound to become a family favorite—just like they did in mine.