Salted Caramel Bites

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Spread the Crackers

Evenly spread oyster crackers over the prepared baking sheet. They’ll be your crisp, buttery canvas for the caramel magic.

Step 3: Make the Caramel

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely.
Add brown sugar and vanilla, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to combine smoothly.

Increase the heat slightly until the caramel begins to bubble and boil. Keep stirring for 3–4 minutes, watching as it turns glossy and lighter in color.
(And yes — it will smell incredible at this stage!)

Step 4: Coat the Crackers

Remove the caramel from the heat and quickly pour it over the crackers on the baking sheet.
Using a rubber spatula, gently toss until every cracker is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add Salt & Bake

Sprinkle kosher salt evenly over the caramel-coated crackers.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning — caramel can go from perfect to overdone quickly.

When ready, the crackers should look golden, crisp, and beautifully glazed.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely. The caramel will harden as it cools, giving you that irresistible crunchy texture.

Once cooled, break apart gently and store (if you can resist eating them all right away!).

Serving Suggestions

Snack attack: Enjoy straight from the jar for a sweet-and-salty afternoon treat.
Dessert topper: Sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt for caramel crunch.
Gift idea: Package in mason jars or clear treat bags — perfect for holidays or thank-you gifts.
Party favorite: Serve in small bowls alongside nuts and candies for a crowd-pleasing mix.

Tips for Success

💡 Keep stirring the caramel: This prevents burning and keeps the texture smooth.
💡 Watch closely while baking: Oven temperatures vary — once it turns golden, it’s done!
💡 Cool completely: The bites will firm up as they cool for that perfect crunch.
💡 Add-ins: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips, toffee bits, or chopped pecans before baking for a gourmet twist.

Variations

Spiced Caramel Bites: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for cozy flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate on top.
Nutty Mix: Stir in almonds or pecans before baking for extra texture.

Storage

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Refrigerate: Keeps for up to 2 weeks (if you like a firmer crunch).
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze in airtight bags for up to 3 months — thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cracker?
Absolutely! Mini pretzels, saltines, or even Chex cereal work well.

Do I need a candy thermometer?
Nope! This caramel is foolproof — just boil until bubbly and light in color.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use two baking sheets so everything bakes evenly.

Final Thoughts

These Salted Caramel Bites are the kind of treat you don’t just eat — you crave. Buttery, toasty, and kissed with just the right touch of salt, they’re a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create pure magic.

Whether you serve them at a holiday party, gift them to a friend, or snack on them during movie night, one thing’s certain — they won’t last long!

Anything this easy shouldn’t be this good… but we’re not complaining. 😉