Easy Caramel Peanut Ritz Cracker Bars
Ingredients
Caramel Layer
1 can sweetened condensed milk
¼ cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
¼ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Other Layers
2–3 sleeves Ritz crackers
1 cup roasted peanuts (salted or unsalted, your choice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Make the Caramel
- In a saucepan, add:
Sweetened condensed milk
Butter
Brown sugar
Milk
- Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously.
- When it begins to bubble, keep stirring and cook for 5–7 minutes until thick and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using.
- Layer the Bars
- Place a layer of Ritz crackers on the bottom of the pan.
- Pour half of the caramel over the crackers and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the peanuts on top.
- Add another layer of Ritz crackers.
- Pour the rest of the caramel on top and spread.
- Finish with the remaining peanuts.
- Chill
Let the dessert cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 2–3 hours until firm.
- Serve
Cut into squares or bars.
Enjoy the perfect mix of salty crackers, crunchy peanuts, and buttery caramel! 🥜🍯💛
Optional Add-Ons
Drizzle melted chocolate on top for a Snickers-style bar.
Add a pinch of sea salt or flaky salt on top.
Use pecans or cashews instead of peanuts.