Sweet, salty, crunchy, and addictive—Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are a snack-time treasure that disappears faster than you can say “just one more.” They’re simple, satisfying, and dangerously delicious.
Perfect for holiday gifting, movie nights, or anytime cravings, these caramel-coated oyster crackers hit the mark with a buttery glaze and the perfect sprinkle of sea salt.
What You’ll Need for These Irresistible Salted Caramel Cracker Bites
- Oyster crackers – These little bites provide the ideal crunchy canvas, absorbing just enough caramel for maximum flavor in every nibble.
- Butter – The rich, creamy base of the caramel that brings smooth texture and indulgence.
- Brown sugar – Adds deep, molasses-rich sweetness and helps create that sticky, glossy caramel finish.
- Vanilla extract – Lends warmth and aromatic depth, rounding out the sugar and spice.
- Cinnamon – A hint of spice that enhances the sweetness and gives each bite a cozy, familiar note.
- Salt – Not just for balance—this final sprinkle heightens flavor and turns sweetness into pure magic.
Easy, Addictive, and Oh-So-Worth It: How to Make Salted Caramel Cracker Bites
Start by spreading the oyster crackers in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. While your oven preheats, melt the butter and brown sugar in a saucepan, then stir in vanilla and cinnamon.
Once the mixture comes to a bubbling boil, let it simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens and lightens. Pour the caramel over the crackers and toss to coat them evenly.
Sprinkle with salt, then bake for 7–9 minutes—just enough to set the caramel without burning. Let them cool, break into clusters, and enjoy the sweet crunch.
Snack Smarter: Tips & Twists for Better Bites
The key to nailing these bites is timing. Keep your eye on the caramel while it simmers—it should thicken and become silky, but not burn. When baking, use your nose: once it smells nutty and toasty, it’s ready.
Want to shake things up? Swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice during fall, or add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy twist. A drizzle of melted dark chocolate post-bake is a decadent upgrade.
Sweet Storage Solutions: Keeping Your Cracker Bites Fresh
These bites store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—if they last that long. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag and thaw at room temp.
To re-crisp, pop them in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This revives the crunch without compromising flavor.
Salted Caramel Cracker Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 9 oz package oyster crackers
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Spread the oyster crackers evenly across the lined sheet. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully blended and begins to bubble. Let it boil gently for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and takes on a lighter hue. Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately pour the hot caramel mixture over the crackers. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula to ensure every cracker is well coated. Sprinkle the salt over the top. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 7 to 9 minutes, carefully monitoring to avoid burning the caramel. Once baked, let the crackers cool completely before breaking them into clusters. Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
