Sweet, salty, buttery, and delightfully simple—these Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are everything you want in a holiday treat. They come together in just minutes, no oven required, and deliver that nostalgic homemade taste that makes them perfect for cookie exchanges, dessert trays, or edible gifts.

Think of them as the grown-up cousin of peanut butter Ritz sandwiches, dressed in a holiday caramel coat and finished with a velvety chocolate drizzle. They’re impossibly addictive and dangerously easy to make in bulk. Once you take a bite, you’ll see why they vanish almost instantly from any festive spread.

What Kind of Caramel Should I Use?

For the smoothest, most luscious caramel center, use soft caramel candies like Kraft or Werther’s Soft Caramels. Melt them down with a splash of heavy cream for a pourable, velvety texture that sets beautifully between your crackers. You can also opt for homemade caramel if you’re feeling ambitious, but pre-wrapped caramels keep this recipe quick and stress-free.

Ingredients for the Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

60 Ritz crackers (30 sandwich pairs)
1 bag (11 oz) soft caramels (such as Kraft or Werther’s)
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter
Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)

Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies (1)

How To Make the Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Make the Caramel Filling

Unwrap the soft caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with the heavy cream. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

Lay half the Ritz crackers flat on a parchment-lined tray. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel onto each cracker, then top with another cracker to form a sandwich. Let them cool slightly to set.

Step 3: Dip in Chocolate

In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil in 20-second increments until smooth and glossy. Dip each caramel-filled sandwich halfway or fully into the chocolate. Place back on the tray.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt if desired. Chill the tray in the fridge for 10-15 minutes until firm.

How to Serve and Store These Cookies

These cookies are a showstopper on any dessert tray and make fantastic edible gifts during the holidays. Serve them chilled or at room temperature—either way, the combination of crispy cracker, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate is irresistible.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for a slightly firmer bite that lasts up to 10 days. You can even freeze them for up to a month—just separate layers with parchment to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to melt caramels?

Microwaving with a bit of heavy cream works best. It keeps the caramel smooth and prevents scorching.

Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Choose whichever chocolate flavor you prefer or mix them for a swirled effect.

Do these travel well for gifting?

Yes! Once set, they hold up beautifully in treat bags or tins.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Opt for dairy-free caramels if available.

How do I keep the caramel from oozing out?

Let the sandwiches rest before dipping, and make sure your caramel is thick, not runny.

Can I use other crackers?

You can, but Ritz crackers give that perfect buttery, flaky bite that pairs beautifully with caramel and chocolate.

If you love these Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other festive favorites:

Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich, fruity indulgence.
Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars with cinnamon sugar crust and creamy filling.
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies that melt in your mouth.
3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies when you want something simple but sweet.
Healthy Cookies Recipe for a guilt-free treat that still satisfies.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it anytime: Nina Dishes on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go all-in with chocolate or keep it half-dipped? Add crushed peppermint or sprinkles? I’d love to hear your festive twists!

Baking and sharing is what makes the season magical, so spread some sweetness and tag me when you try them!

Irresistible Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 30 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These no-bake Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are the ultimate sweet and salty holiday treat. Featuring buttery Ritz crackers filled with soft caramel and dipped in smooth chocolate, they’re perfect for gifting, dessert trays, or snacking by the fire. Easy to make, festive, and wildly addictive!

Ingredients

60 Ritz crackers

1 bag (11 oz) soft caramels

2 tablespoons heavy cream

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter

Flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Unwrap the soft caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with the heavy cream. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.

2. Lay half the Ritz crackers flat on a parchment-lined tray. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel onto each cracker, then top with another cracker to form a sandwich. Let them cool slightly to set.

3. In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil in 20-second increments until smooth and glossy.

4. Dip each caramel-filled sandwich halfway or fully into the chocolate. Place back on the tray.

5. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt if desired. Chill the tray in the fridge for 10-15 minutes until firm.