Description
These Maple Caramel Crack Bites are a delightful sweet treat combining buttery crackers with a rich caramel sauce infused with pure maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these bites offer a perfect balance of crunchy and gooey textures with an optional touch of flaky sea salt to enhance flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Crack Bites
- 1 package (about 35–40) buttery rectangular crackers (like Club crackers)
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: flaky sea salt, for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Crackers: Lay the buttery rectangular crackers in a single layer across the entire foil-lined tray, covering the surface evenly to create a base for the caramel.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the packed light brown sugar and pure maple syrup, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and allow it to bubble for 3–4 minutes to thicken.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon thoroughly to infuse the caramel with warm flavors.
- Coat Crackers with Caramel: Pour the hot caramel sauce evenly over the crackers in the baking sheet. Use a spatula or spoon to spread the sauce to cover all edges and crackers uniformly.
- Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the crackers appear set and slightly glossy.
- Cool and Finish: Remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top while still warm for a salty contrast. Allow the caramel crackers to cool completely until firm.
- Cut and Store: Once cooled and set, break or cut the caramel cracker sheet into bite-sized pieces. Store these Maple Caramel Crack Bites in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use buttery crackers like Club crackers for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure the caramel sauce bubbles gently to properly thicken without burning.
- Allow the bites to cool fully before breaking to achieve clean pieces.
- Flaky sea salt is optional but highly recommended to balance the sweetness.
- Store leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week.