Before we dive into this merry little cookie recipe, let me just say how much I appreciate YOU. Whether you’re here looking for a fun holiday baking project or a no-stress treat to share at your next cookie swap, I’m so glad you stopped by. There’s something so special about baking during the holidays—and recipes like this make it simple, sweet, and full of joy. 💫
Let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorite holiday treats: Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies. They’re the perfect mix of salty, sweet, crunchy, and creamy, with a chocolate coating that makes them look as festive as they taste. And the best part? You don’t even have to turn on the oven!
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What Are Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies?
These are no-bake sandwich cookies made with buttery Ritz crackers, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a smooth chocolate coating. Each bite is a celebration of textures and flavors – sweet, salty, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
- ✅ No baking required
- ✅ Only 6 ingredients
- ✅ Festive and customizable
- ✅ Perfect for cookie swaps, potlucks, and gifting
- ✅ Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly!
What Do They Taste Like?
Think of a Reese’s cup meets chocolate-covered pretzel, but with a buttery, crispy twist. The peanut butter filling is creamy and sweet, sandwiched between two crispy crackers, and then drenched in melted chocolate. Finish with festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes, and you’ve got a holiday treat that’s impossible to resist.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Quick and easy – perfect for last-minute holiday prep
- No oven means it’s great for getting kids involved
- Incredibly budget-friendly
- Make-ahead friendly – they store beautifully!
- Customizable with endless topping options
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 box Ritz crackers (about 48 crackers)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or nut butter of choice)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Sprinkles or crushed candy canes, for decoration (optional)
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Fork or dipping tool
Optional Ingredient Swaps & Additions
- Swap peanut butter for almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or Nutella
- Use white chocolate, dark chocolate, or candy melts for dipping
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt to the peanut butter mix
- Top with mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, or crushed nuts for fun textures
How to Make Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Stir until smooth and combined into a thick, creamy filling.
Step 2: Assemble the Cookie Sandwiches
Take one Ritz cracker, spread a generous scoop of the peanut butter mixture on the flat side, then top with another cracker to make a sandwich. Repeat until all the filling is used.
Step 3: Chill
Place the filled cracker sandwiches on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps them firm up for dipping.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, add:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.
Step 5: Dip the Cookies
Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled sandwich into the melted chocolate. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing it back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Decorate
While the chocolate is still wet, add:
- Holiday sprinkles
- Crushed candy canes
- Or leave them plain and classic!
Step 7: Let Them Set
Let cookies sit at room temperature or place in the fridge until the chocolate is completely set and firm.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Arrange your Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies on a festive plate and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
What to Serve with These Cookies
- A cozy cup of hot cocoa or peppermint mocha
- On a holiday dessert platter alongside sugar cookies and fudge
- With a glass of cold milk – Santa approved!
- In holiday treat bags or cookie tins for gifting
Tips for Success
- Use parchment paper – it makes cleanup so much easier and prevents sticking.
- Don’t skip chilling before dipping – it helps the cookies stay together.
- Use a fork or dipping tool for smooth, even chocolate coverage.
- Want perfectly smooth tops? Tap the dipped cookie gently on the bowl edge to remove excess chocolate.
How to Store Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies
At room temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
In the refrigerator:
They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
In the freezer:
Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use white chocolate instead?
Absolutely! White chocolate adds a sweeter, creamy twist and looks especially festive with red and green sprinkles.
Can I make these nut-free?
Yes – swap the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or cookie butter for a safe and delicious alternative.
Do I have to use Ritz crackers?
Nope! Any buttery, round cracker will work. Just make sure they’re not too thick.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Definitely! These are perfect for making a few days before a party or gifting event.
Final Thoughts
These Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are the kind of recipe that becomes a holiday tradition. They’re easy enough for busy days, festive enough for parties, and delicious enough that they’ll disappear in minutes!
Give them a try this season and spread a little joy (and chocolate!) wherever you go. 🎁✨
Want more festive favorites and easy sweets? Try:
- Peppermint Chocolate Bark
- No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
- White Chocolate Dipped Oreos
Share Your Holiday Creations! 🎄
Made these Ritz Cracker Cookies? I’d love to see how yours turned out!
📸 Tag your photos on Pinterest
💬 Leave a review and let me know what you thought!
💌 And don’t forget to [subscribe here] for more easy, festive recipes straight to your inbox.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie – Approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 15g
- Sugar: 9g
- Protein: 2g
(Nutrition may vary based on toppings and specific ingredients used.)
Happy baking, and may your season be sweet and sprinkled with joy! ❤️
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