Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, delightful treat that’s guaranteed to wow your friends and family, I absolutely love this Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. This little gem combines the salty crunch of Ritz crackers with creamy peanut butter and a luscious white chocolate coating – it’s like a party in every bite! Plus, it’s so simple that you can whip them up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or just a cozy night in.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem simple, but together they create something truly special. When shopping, I recommend using quality white chocolate wafers and fresh Ritz crackers for that unbeatable texture and flavor.

• Ritz Crackers: The salty, buttery flavor is the perfect base, so try not to substitute with something too different.
• White Chocolate Melting Wafers: These melt easily and coat your cookies smoothly — I’ve found Ghirardelli is a go-to for creamy results.
• Coconut Oil (optional): Adding a bit helps the chocolate melt more evenly and gives a nice shine.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: Choose your favorite brand; creamy peanut butter spreads easily and balances the salty crackers.
• Festive Holiday Sprinkles: These add a pop of color and fun texture—totally optional but highly recommended for presentation.
• Flaky Sea Salt: Just a touch sprinkled on top helps elevate all the flavors wonderfully.

Variations

I love to switch things up now and then with this Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe—it keeps it interesting and lets you adapt to whatever you’ve got on hand or your mood that day. Plus, it’s always fun to experiment and make the recipe truly your own.

• Chocolate Swap: I once tried dark chocolate melting wafers instead of white for a richer, slightly bitter edge that my family enjoyed a lot.
• Nut Butter Variation: Almond or cashew butter works beautifully if you want something a little milder or different from peanut butter.
• Sprinkle Fun: Swap festive sprinkles for crushed nuts or shredded coconut to change up the texture and look.
• Diet-Friendly Twist: Use sugar-free or keto-friendly chocolate wafers and natural nut butter to make a low-sugar version.

How to Make Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Base

Start by lining a cookie sheet with parchment paper—it’ll save you a sticky mess later, trust me! Lay out one sleeve of Ritz crackers flat side up. I like to make sure they’re evenly spaced because you’ll be building the sandwich cookies right here.

Step 2: Peanut Butter Time

Spoon about 2 teaspoons of creamy peanut butter onto each cracker. I usually eyeball it to get a generously thick layer—you want enough peanut butter to complement the saltiness but not so much it oozes out when you sandwich them. Spread with the back of the spoon for even coverage.

Step 3: Sandwich ‘Em Up

Carefully place another Ritz cracker on top, rounded side up, creating that perfect peanut butter sandwich. This little combo always reminds me of childhood snacks, but with a gourmet twist coming next!

Step 4: Melt the Magic

Place your white chocolate melting wafers into a microwave-safe bowl. I heat them for one minute, then stir—beauty is in the gentle, even melting! Heat again for another minute and stir until smooth. If you want, add a tablespoon or two of coconut oil to help smooth out the texture and add a glossy finish, but it’s not absolutely necessary if your wafers melt easily.

Step 5: Dunk and Decorate

Now for the fun part: carefully dunk each sandwich into the melted white chocolate so it’s completely coated. I like using a fork to lower and lift the cookie, then tap off excess chocolate to avoid puddles. Place them back on your parchment paper. Once dipped, drizzle any leftover chocolate on top for that extra “wow” factor.

Step 6: Finish with Flair

Sprinkle on your holiday sprinkles and a pinch of flaky sea salt right away before the chocolate sets. This little final touch adds festivity and just the right balance to the sweet coating. Let the cookies sit until the chocolate hardens completely—then you’re ready to indulge!

How to Serve Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I swear by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top—it cuts through the sweetness so beautifully. During holidays, I add festive sprinkles to make them feel special and inviting. Sometimes a dusting of crushed nuts adds a lovely texture too!

Side Dishes

These cookies are perfect paired with a simple glass of cold milk or your favorite hot cocoa, especially in cooler months. I’ve even served them alongside fruit platters or with coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up that always gets compliments.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I love arranging these cookies on a festive platter lined with parchment paper and edible gold leaf or placing them inside a clear box tied with a ribbon for gifting. They’re also wonderful stacked inside mini mason jars for a charming homemade gift look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store mine in an airtight container at room temperature—it keeps them fresh and crunchy for about a week. To avoid the chocolate sweating, I make sure they’re completely set and the container is sealed well.

Freezing

If I want to save some for later, I freeze these cookies in a single layer inside a freezer-safe container with parchment in between layers. They hold up for up to three months and thaw quickly—perfect for unexpected cravings or gifts.

Reheating

Since they’re best enjoyed crisp, I usually just bring them to room temperature from the freezer. If you want, a quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave can soften the chocolate slightly—just watch it so it doesn’t get melty!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe has become a holiday staple in my family and honestly, I find myself making it all year round! The way the flavors come together is magic—simple ingredients turning into a crowd-pleaser every time. I’m so happy to share it with you because I know you’ll enjoy it as much as we do. Give it a try, and soon you’ll have your own go-to cookie that’s quick, tasty, and just a little bit fancy.

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