Instructions
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it liquefies and turns a deep amber color.
- Carefully add the cubed butter, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously (the mixture will bubble vigorously).
- Bring to a gentle boil for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in sea salt and vanilla extract.
3. Arrange Crackers on Baking Sheet
Lay the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are touching each other to form a solid base.
4. Pour Caramel Over Crackers
Pour the hot caramel sauce evenly over the crackers. Tilt the pan or use a spatula to spread the caramel, ensuring all crackers are coated.
5. Bake the Caramel-Coated Crackers
Bake in the preheated oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling vigorously and the edges of the crackers turn golden brown.
6. Add Chocolate
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let the residual heat melt the chocolate for 2–3 minutes.
7. Spread Chocolate and Add Sea Salt
Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt on top for a perfect sweet-salty balance.
8. Cool and Break Into Pieces
Allow the cracker toffee to cool completely at room temperature or chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate and caramel are firm. Once set, break into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Chef’s Tips
- Even Layer: Line crackers edge to edge for a consistent caramel coverage.
- Prevent Burning: Keep a close eye on the caramel—sugar can go from amber to burnt very quickly.
- Chocolate Options: For variation, try milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or a drizzle of white chocolate.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
These Salted Caramel Cracker Bites are irresistibly crunchy, buttery, and sweet with just the right hint of salt. They’re perfect for gifting, holiday parties, or an indulgent treat anytime.