Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 48 Ritz crackers; ¾ cup creamy peanut butter; 8 ounces chocolate almond bark; 8 ounces good quality semisweet chocolate chips; optional sea salt flakes

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When I think of indulgence, nothing quite matches the experience of savoring Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies. These delightful treats bring back fond memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations, where laughter filled the air and sweet aromas danced in the kitchen. The first bite is a blissful explosion of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, perfectly balanced between the salty crunch of Ritz crackers. It’s a nostalgic recipe from my childhood, one that I’ve cherished and adapted over the years. Whenever I prepare these cookies, I can’t help but smile, thinking about the joy they bring to everyone who tries them. They’re not just cookies; they’re a love letter to comfort food, a reminder that the simplest ingredients can create the most delightful experiences.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Frying Pan, Large Pot

Why We Love This Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies

Easy to Make

One of the standout features of Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies is how easy they are to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that looks and tastes gourmet. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe welcomes you with open arms.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookies are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or just a cozy night in. The combination of flavors makes them ideal for sharing with friends and family, making every occasion a bit sweeter.

Kid-Friendly Fun

If you have kids, they’ll love helping you make these cookies. The process of assembling the sandwiches, dipping them in chocolate, and decorating them with sprinkles can turn into a fun family activity. It’s a great way to make memories while enjoying deliciousness together.

A Treat for All Ages

The combination of sweet and salty in Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies appeals to both young and old. It’s a nostalgic treat for adults and a new favorite for the little ones. No matter your age, these cookies are bound to become a cherished favorite.

Freezer-Friendly

One of the best parts about these cookies is how well they freeze. If you want to enjoy them later or save some for a special occasion, just store them in a freezer-safe container. You can have a batch ready to go whenever the craving strikes!

Customizable

While the classic version is irresistible, you can always customize Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies with different toppings or fillings. Add some crushed nuts, or try using different types of chocolate to mix things up. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies

The ingredients for these cookies are simple yet magical, coming together to create a delightful treat. The key players, including Ritz crackers, creamy peanut butter, and chocolate almond bark, harmonize beautifully to create a satisfying crunch and a luscious filling.

48 Ritz crackers – These provide the perfect salty base that complements the sweetness of the filling.
¾ cup creamy peanut butter – A rich and creamy spread that adds a delightful nuttiness.
8 ounces chocolate almond bark – Melts beautifully for dipping, offering a smooth chocolate coating.
8 ounces good quality semisweet chocolate chips – Enhance the chocolate experience with their rich flavor.
sea salt flakes, optional – A sprinkle of salt on top elevates the flavors and adds a gourmet touch.

The Process for Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies

Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies is a delightful experience that comes together in just a few steps. Let’s dive into the process and see how easy it is to create these scrumptious treats!

Start by taking a medium heat-proof bowl and melt the chocolate almond bark and semisweet chocolate chips together in the microwave. Set the microwave to a low setting, stirring regularly to prevent scorching. Alternatively, you can create a homemade double boiler by placing the bowl over simmering water, allowing the chocolate to melt gently. You want a smooth consistency that’s perfect for dipping.
While the chocolates are melting, prepare your workspace. Line a 15” x 10” rimmed pan with wax paper. This will be where you place the assembled cookies after dipping them in chocolate. Take 24 Ritz crackers and arrange them on the wax paper, leaving space between each cracker.
Now it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Take a generous tablespoon of creamy peanut butter and scoop it onto the center of each Ritz cracker. You don’t need to spread it; the peanut butter will naturally spread out when you add the next cracker.
Top each peanut butter-topped cracker with another Ritz cracker and gently press it down in the center. This step ensures that the peanut butter spreads evenly between the two crackers, creating a delightful sandwich. Continue this process until you’ve made all 24 sandwiches.
Once your sandwiches are ready, check the melting chocolate. If it’s smooth and glossy, you’re ready to dip! Carefully drop one sandwich cookie into the bowl of melted chocolate. Using two forks, turn the cookie to ensure it gets completely coated in chocolate.
Lift the cookie out with one of the forks, allowing any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. A gentle tap against the bowl’s edge can help remove surplus chocolate. Be careful not to lose any of that delicious chocolate!
Transfer the dipped cookie onto the prepared wax paper. To help slide it off the fork, you can use a toothpick. Repeat this process until all the cookies are dipped in chocolate and placed on the wax paper.
If you desire to add a finishing touch, now’s the time. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle some sea salt flakes or colorful sprinkles on top of the cookies. This little extra step makes a big difference!
Let the chocolate-covered cookies sit at room temperature until they’re fully set, which usually takes about 30 minutes. You can also speed up the process by placing them in the fridge for about 10 minutes.

Things Worth Knowing

Tip 1: Melt chocolate on low heat to prevent burning. Keep stirring regularly to achieve a smooth consistency.
Tip 2: Use wax paper instead of parchment for easier cleanup and to prevent cookies from sticking.
Tip 3: Feel free to experiment with different nut butters for a unique flavor twist.
Tip 4: If chocolate hardens, gently reheat it to bring it back to a dipping consistency.

Making Adjustments

Adjusting a recipe can be fun and rewarding. Here are some tips to help you make Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies your own!

Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They taste best fresh but can last a little longer.
Freezing: These cookies freeze excellently. Use layers of wax paper between stacks in a freezer-safe container to maintain their shape.
Pairing: Serve with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for the perfect pairing.
Variations: Consider adding toppings like crushed nuts, or try different flavored chocolates for a unique twist.
Serving Size: These cookies are perfect for sharing, so consider making a double batch for gatherings!
Decoration: Get creative! Use colored sprinkles or edible glitter to give them a festive look for special occasions.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies, think about how to celebrate the flavors while making the experience enjoyable. Here are some wonderful ideas:

Party Platters: Arrange cookies on a decorative platter for parties. Their beautiful chocolate coating and sprinkle options make them visually appealing.
Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers, these cookies can elevate any event.
Seasonal Treats: Consider making themed versions around holidays, such as using red and green sprinkles for Christmas or heart shapes for Valentine’s Day.
Gift Giving: Package these cookies in a clear bag tied with a ribbon for thoughtful gifts. They make a charming gesture for friends, family, or coworkers.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their freshness.
Drinks Pairing: Serve alongside milk, coffee, or hot chocolate to complement the rich flavors.

FAQ

Absolutely! Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them a few days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to separate the layers with wax paper to prevent sticking.

While Ritz crackers are a classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with different types of crackers. Look for similar-sized crackers that provide a nice crunch and balance the sweetness of the chocolate and peanut butter. Some options include buttery crackers or even graham crackers for a different flavor profile!

To store leftover Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’d like to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can freeze them. Just remember to separate the cookies with layers of wax paper to avoid them sticking together. They’ll stay delicious for weeks!

Definitely! Adding toppings can enhance the flavors and elevate the presentation of your Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies. Consider using toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even drizzling more melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch!

Conclusion

Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz Cookies are a delightful treat that combines creamy, sweet, and salty flavors in each bite. Their simple preparation and nostalgic taste make them a must-try for anyone looking to indulge. I encourage you to whip up a batch and share them with friends and family or enjoy them during a quiet evening at home. No matter how you enjoy them, I promise they will bring smiles and satisfaction!