Description
These Salted Caramel Bites are the perfect mix of sweet and salty in every crunchy, buttery bite. Made with crispy oyster crackers and a rich homemade caramel sauce, this quick and easy treat is baked to golden perfection and topped with a hint of kosher salt. Ideal for parties, snacks, or even edible gifts!
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
-
Busy parents looking for a fast and addictive snack.
-
Beginner bakers who want an easy caramel recipe.
-
Party hosts needing a unique finger food.
-
Anyone craving a sweet-and-salty treat that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
If you love toffee, caramel popcorn, or snack mixes, you’ll definitely fall in love with these caramel cracker bites!
Why It’s Great
-
Quick & Easy: Only 5 ingredients and under 30 minutes start to finish.
-
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for sharing at holidays, potlucks, or game nights.
-
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients.
-
Addictive Flavor: Sweet, salty, buttery, and crunchy all in one.
-
Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate drizzle, or crushed pretzels to make it your own.
Ingredients
-
4 cups oyster crackers
-
¾ cup unsalted butter
-
¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
-
2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
-
1 teaspoon kosher salt
How to Make Salted Caramel Bites
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly coat with non-stick cooking spray.
-
Spread the oyster crackers in an even layer across the pan.
-
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar and vanilla. Continue stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
-
Increase the heat slightly until the mixture starts to boil. Stir constantly for 3–4 minutes, or until the caramel turns light golden and bubbly.
-
Immediately pour the caramel over the crackers. Gently mix with a rubber spatula to evenly coat all crackers.
-
Sprinkle kosher salt over the top.
-
Bake for 8–10 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
-
Let cool completely before breaking into bite-sized chunks. Enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
-
Large baking sheet
-
Parchment paper or foil
-
Non-stick spray
-
Medium saucepan
-
Rubber spatula
-
Measuring cups and spoons
Storage
Store the cooled Salted Caramel Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They also freeze well—just seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.
FAQ
Can I use mini pretzels instead of oyster crackers?
Yes! Mini pretzels or even popcorn make great alternatives for a fun texture twist.
What if I don’t have kosher salt?
Sea salt flakes or regular table salt can work, but start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use two baking sheets and rotate them halfway through baking for even caramelization.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not with standard oyster crackers—but you can easily swap in a gluten-free cracker option.
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Bites are a must-try for anyone who loves easy snacks with big flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just want a sweet treat to munch on, this simple recipe delivers every time. With just five ingredients and a few minutes in the oven, you’ll have a crunchy, buttery snack that disappears fast!
