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These Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies turn simple buttery crackers into festive no-bake holiday treats packed with sweet salty and crunchy flavors. Creamy peanut butter is sandwiched between crisp crackers then dipped in silky melted chocolate and finished with bright holiday sprinkles making them perfect for cookie exchanges holiday dessert trays or edible gifts.
I started making these a few years ago when I needed a fast holiday treat to bring to a party and now they’re my family’s favorite quick dessert request every season.
Ingredients
- Buttery round crackers: about 60 for flavor and crispy texture select a fresh sturdy brand like Ritz for best results
- Creamy peanut butter: or your favorite nut or seed butter which binds the sandwich and adds richness pick smooth varieties for easier spreading
- White chocolate chips or candy melts: provide a creamy coating choose quality chocolates to get a glossy finish
- Optional coconut oil: helps your chocolate melt smoothly and makes dipping easier especially if your chocolate is thick
- Festive red and green sprinkles: bring a cheerful holiday look use sprinkles without artificial dyes if preferred
- Flaky sea salt: optional adds a burst of savory contrast to balance the sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Cookies:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking and for easy cleanup. Arrange about 30 crackers rounded side up spaced evenly. Spread roughly one teaspoon of creamy peanut butter on each cracker then gently top with a second cracker making a sandwich. Press lightly to stick them together. If the peanut butter feels too soft or runny chill the sandwiches for 5 to 10 minutes to help them firm up and avoid oozing.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Place white chocolate chips and coconut oil if you are using it into a microwave safe bowl. Heat the mixture in short 20 second bursts stirring well between each until the chocolate is completely melted smooth and glossy. This gentle melting prevents burning or seizing which can ruin the texture.
- Dip and Decorate:
- Using a fork carefully dip each peanut butter cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate coating. Let the excess chocolate drip back into the bowl for a cleaner finish. Place the dipped cookie on the parchment lined sheet. While the chocolate is still wet immediately sprinkle festive red and green sprinkles along with a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired to add texture and flavor contrast.
- Set and Store:
- Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes or until the chocolate coating has fully set and hardened. Store the treats in an airtight container to maintain crispness. Serve them at room temperature or slightly chilled for the best texture and flavor.
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Storage Tips
Once coated and set keep the cookies in an airtight container layered with parchment paper so they don’t stick together. These cookies stay crisp in the fridge for up to a week. Let them warm to room temperature before serving for the best flavor or enjoy them slightly chilled for a more refreshing bite.
Ingredient Substitutions
Peanut butter can be swapped for almond butter sunflower seed butter or even a flavored nut butter to customize the taste or accommodate allergies. You can melt semisweet or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a richer slightly less sweet coating. Skip the coconut oil but be prepared for a thicker dip which may take longer to set.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies on a festive platter alongside hot cocoa or spiced cider to enhance the holiday experience. They make great edible gifts simply package them in decorative tins or cellophane bags. Add a small sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy on top for an extra seasonal touch.
Pro Tips
- Always use smooth creamy peanut butter for easier spreading and less mess especially with kids helping
- Do not skip chilling the sandwiches before dipping if your peanut butter is runny this keeps the chocolate coating neat
- Add sprinkles right after dipping while the chocolate is still wet so they stick well and look vibrant
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of crackers are best for this treat?
Buttery round crackers with a crisp texture work best as they hold the filling well without becoming soggy.
- → Can I use other nut butters besides peanut butter?
Yes, almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter can be used to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
- → How do I ensure the chocolate coating is smooth?
Adding a small amount of coconut oil when melting the chocolate helps achieve a glossy, smooth dip.
- → What is the best way to prevent filling from oozing out?
Chilling the sandwiched crackers for 5–10 minutes before dipping firms up the filling and makes dipping easier.
- → How long should these treats be chilled before serving?
Allow 10–15 minutes in the fridge to fully set the chocolate coating, ensuring a clean and crisp finish.