Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, festive treat that’s super easy to whip up yet seriously impressive, then I can’t recommend this Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe enough. These cookies combine salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy all in one bite — perfect for holiday parties or an everyday snack when you want a little indulgence without a ton of fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients because here’s the secret: each one plays a crucial role. The Ritz crackers bring that buttery crunch, peanut butter adds creamy richness, and the white chocolate melts on top for that gorgeous finishing touch. I like using Ghirardelli white chocolate melting wafers because they melt smoothly without seizing. Ready for some quick tips on the stars of this show?

• Ritz Crackers: Choose the classic buttery kind for the best flavor and crunch that pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
• White Chocolate Melting Wafers: Using melting wafers makes your chocolate coating perfectly silky and easy to work with.
• Coconut Oil (Optional): I sometimes add a tablespoon to the chocolate to smooth it out further and make dipping easier.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: I prefer creamy for easy spreading and that luscious texture, but nut butter alternatives work, too.
• Festive Holiday Sprinkles: Adds a pop of color and festive cheer—don’t skip them, especially if you’re making these for parties.
• Flaky Sea Salt: Just a pinch on top really amps up the flavor and balances the sweetness.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Whether you want to swap chocolate types or try different nuts, there’s plenty of room to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs.

• Chocolate Swap: I’ve made these with dark chocolate melting wafers too — it’s less sweet and just as luscious if you want a deeper flavor.
• Nut Butter Alternatives: Don’t like peanut butter? Almond or cashew butter both work beautifully, just make sure they’re creamy for easy spreading.
• Sprinkle Styling: Beyond holiday sprinkles, try cocoa nibs or crushed nuts for a more grown-up finish.

How to Make Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Base Layers

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper—trust me, it makes cleanup a breeze. Arrange one sleeve of Ritz crackers flat side up on the sheet. Then, using a teaspoon or your finger, spread about 2 teaspoons of creamy peanut butter on each cracker. Eyeballing it works fine, but I like a nice thick layer, so each bite is rich and satisfying.

Step 2: Make the Sandwiches

Once the peanut butter is spread, top each cracker with another Ritz cracker, rounded side up, to create a little sandwich. This is the fun part because you’re building that perfect salty and creamy combo. Set these aside on the parchment paper while you melt the chocolate.

Step 3: Melt the White Chocolate

Pop your white chocolate wafers into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute increments, stirring after each one. When it’s smooth and glossy, it’s ready. If you want, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to thin the chocolate out a bit, especially if it looks too thick for dipping.

Step 4: Dip and Decorate

Here’s a tip: use a fork to dunk each cookie into the melted chocolate so it’s fully coated. Then lift it out and gently tap the fork on the side of the bowl to knock off the excess chocolate. Place the cookie back on the parchment paper. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle on festive sprinkles and a pinch of flaky sea salt for an irresistible finish. Repeat with every cookie.

Step 5: Let Them Set

Allow your cookies to sit at room temperature so the chocolate can firm up. If you’re impatient like me, popping them in the fridge for 10-15 minutes speeds things along—just don’t leave them in too long or the crackers can get a little soft.

How to Serve Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Honestly, I always go all out with the garnishes here. Festive holiday sprinkles add that cheerful pop of color, making these cookies ideal for celebrations or gift boxes. The flaky sea salt on top isn’t just for looks—it perfectly balances out the sweetness and adds a little crunch that I absolutely adore.

Side Dishes

I like serving these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa—such a cozy combo! They also make a great complement to a simple fruit platter if you want to mix sweet and fresh flavors at your holiday gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gift-giving, try arranging the cookies on a pretty platter lined with festive napkins or wrapping small stacks in clear cellophane tied with ribbon. I’ve even used mini wooden crates as cookie “baskets” to add rustic charm. A little thought in presentation goes a long way to impress friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your cookies have set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. I learned the hard way that refrigeration can make the crackers lose their crunch, so keeping them in a cool, dry place is best. They stay fresh for about a week—if they last that long!

Freezing

If you’re making these ahead for a party, these cookies freeze wonderfully. Place them in a freezer-safe container separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to eat, thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes—it’s almost like freshly made!

Reheating

You actually don’t need to reheat these cookies—because of the peanut butter and chocolate coating, they’re delicious cold or at room temp. But if you want to soften the chocolate slightly, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds, just enough to melt the top but not the whole cookie.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Ritz Cracker Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe has a special spot in my heart—not just because it tastes amazing but because it’s so effortless and festive. Whenever I make these, friends and family are instantly hooked, and it’s such a joy to share something homemade that doesn’t take hours or complicated steps. I hope you give this recipe a try and find as much happiness in it as I do. Happy baking (or should I say dipping)!

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