Caramel Crackers Recipe
Introduction
Caramel Crackers are a simple, sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking or sharing. With a buttery caramel coating over crispy oyster crackers, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 package (9 ounces) oyster crackers
- 2 sticks (1 cup) butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the oyster crackers evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Step 4: Pour the caramel evenly over the crackers, tossing gently to coat them all. Sprinkle the salt on top.
- Step 5: Bake the coated crackers for 7 to 9 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Step 6: Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break into clusters and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, spread the crackers in a single layer without overlapping before baking.
- Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the caramel mixture for a nutty twist.
- Use light or dark brown sugar to slightly vary the flavor depth of the caramel.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper with the salt for a subtle spicy kick.
Storage
Store the cooled caramel crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To maintain crispness, avoid refrigerating. If softened, you can refresh them by warming briefly in the oven.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes, while oyster crackers work best due to their size and texture, small pretzels or mini rice crackers can be substituted for a different twist.
How do I prevent the caramel from burning?
Keep a close eye during the boiling and baking steps, and use medium heat when melting the butter and dissolving the sugar. Remove the crackers from the oven as soon as the caramel bubbles thickly and the crackers look glossy.
PrintCaramel Crackers Recipe
Caramel Crackers are a deliciously sweet and crunchy snack made by coating oyster crackers with a rich caramel sauce infused with vanilla and cinnamon, then baked to perfection until crisp and golden. This treat is perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet bite anytime.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: About 6 cups of caramel crackers 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (9 ounces) oyster crackers
- 2 sticks (1 cup) butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and spread the oyster crackers evenly in a single layer.
- Make Caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves. Allow the mixture to boil gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, forming a smooth caramel sauce.
- Coat Crackers: Pour the hot caramel sauce evenly over the oyster crackers on the baking sheet. Use a spatula or spoon to gently toss and coat all the crackers thoroughly. Sprinkle the salt evenly over the coated crackers to balance the sweetness.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the crackers for 7 to 9 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning; the caramel should bubble and set without scorching.
- Finish: Remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This will allow the caramel to harden. Once cooled, break the crackers into clusters and store them in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
Notes
- For even caramel coating, stir the crackers gently but thoroughly when pouring the caramel.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Watch the caramel closely while boiling and baking to avoid burning, which can make the snack bitter.
- The clusters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- To add a twist, consider sprinkling chopped nuts or a pinch of cayenne pepper before baking for extra flavor.
Keywords: Caramel crackers, oyster crackers, sweet snack, crispy caramel, cinnamon caramel crackers, baked snack
