I always find myself reaching for the perfect balance of salty and sweet during the holiday season, and nothing hits the spot quite like these Ritz Cracker Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Every Christmas, I make a huge batch of these treats to share with neighbors and friends because they are always the first thing to disappear from the dessert platter. I love how simple they are to assemble, especially when the kitchen is already busy with holiday meal prep.

Recipe Details

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 treats
Difficulty: Easy

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 185 kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 11g

Why You’ll Love This Treat

This treat is a holiday favorite because it requires absolutely no baking, which is a lifesaver when your oven is occupied by a Christmas turkey or trays of gingerbread. The combination of the buttery, flaky Ritz crackers with the creamy peanut butter center creates a texture that is far superior to store bought candies. You get that satisfying crunch followed by a smooth chocolate coating that feels incredibly indulgent. It is an approachable recipe that kids can help with, making it a wonderful way to involve the whole family in holiday preparations.

Ritz Cracker Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Ingredients & Substitutions

48 Ritz crackers
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
Festive red and green sprinkles for garnish

If you prefer a different texture, you can swap the creamy peanut butter for a crunchy variety to add extra bite. For the chocolate coating, milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips work just as well as semi-sweet depending on your sweetness preference. If Ritz crackers are unavailable, any round buttery snack cracker will provide the same salty base. You can also use almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you need a peanut alternative, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This Treat

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted butter, and alcohol-free vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and well combined. The filling should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to spread easily onto the crackers.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

Lay out 24 crackers on a piece of parchment paper with the flat side facing up. Place a small dollop, about a tablespoon, of the peanut butter mixture onto the center of each cracker. Top each one with a second cracker, pressing down gently to create a sandwich. Ensure the filling reaches the edges but does not spill over excessively.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Place the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each session, until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy. The coconut oil helps the chocolate stay fluid and gives it a nice shine once it sets.

Step 4: Dip and Decorate

Using a fork or a candy dipping tool, submerge each cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate. Tap the fork against the side of the bowl to let any excess chocolate drip off. Place the coated treats back onto the parchment paper and immediately top them with festive sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.

Step 5: Let the Treats Set

Allow the treats to sit at room temperature until the chocolate is firm. If you are in a hurry, you can place the tray in the refrigerator for about 15 to 20 minutes. Once the chocolate has hardened completely, they are ready to be served or packaged.

Tips for Success

To get the best results, make sure your peanut butter mixture is not too runny, as this will cause the crackers to slide apart. If the chocolate starts to thicken while you are dipping, simply pop it back in the microwave for ten seconds to loosen it up. I recommend using parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking, as this makes cleanup much easier. For a professional look, use a toothpick to swirl a little bit of white chocolate over the top after the base layer has set.

Variations of This Treat

You can easily customize these for different tastes. Try using white chocolate for the coating and topping them with crushed candy canes for a refreshing peppermint twist. Another great option is to add a small slice of banana inside the sandwich for a fruity surprise, though these should be eaten the same day. For a more intense salty-sweet experience, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it hardens. You can even use different cracker shapes, like stars or hearts, to match different holiday themes.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with This Treat

These treats are perfect when served alongside a warm mug of cocoa or a spiced cider during a cold December night. They make a fantastic addition to a Christmas dessert charcuterie board, paired with dried fruits, nuts, and orange slices. If you are hosting a holiday party, serve them on a tiered silver tray to add a touch of elegance to your buffet. They also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk for a classic snack that guests of all ages will enjoy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Store these chocolate-covered sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If your kitchen is particularly warm, keep them in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from softening, where they will stay fresh for up to two weeks. These treats do not require reheating and are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months, just let them thaw for a few minutes before eating.

Memories Made Around the Table

Some of my favorite Christmas memories involve sitting at the kitchen island with my siblings, each of us assigned a different task in the assembly line. I remember the laughter as we tried to dip the crackers without dropping them into the bowl of chocolate. We would always “accidentally” break a few just so we had an excuse to eat them right then and there. Now that I am older, I love continuing this tradition with my own family, filling the house with the scent of chocolate and the joy of the holidays.

FAQs

Can I make these treats in advance?

Yes, these are excellent for making ahead of time. You can prepare them up to three days before your event and store them in a cool, dry place. This makes them a perfect stress-free option for busy holiday schedules or cookie swaps.

Do I have to use coconut oil in the chocolate?

While you do not have to use coconut oil, it is highly recommended. It thins the chocolate just enough to make dipping much smoother and results in a cleaner finish once the treats have dried. Vegetable shortening is a great alternative if you do not have coconut oil.

How do I prevent the crackers from getting soggy?

The key to keeping the crackers crisp is to ensure they are fully coated in chocolate, which acts as a barrier. Additionally, storing them in a truly airtight container prevents moisture from the air from softening the crackers over time.

Can I use natural peanut butter for the filling?

Natural peanut butter that requires stirring can be used, but it might be a bit more oily. If you choose this route, you may need to add a little extra powdered sugar to achieve the right consistency so the filling does not leak out from between the crackers.

What is the best way to melt the chocolate without a microwave?

You can use a double boiler method by placing a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Stir the chocolate constantly until it is melted and smooth, taking care not to get any water into the chocolate as it will cause it to seize.

Final Thoughts

These Ritz Cracker Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are a testament to the idea that the best holiday treats do not have to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of festive spirit, you can create a dessert that everyone will be asking for year after year. Whether you are gifting them in a pretty tin or serving them at your own Christmas dinner, they are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Happy holidays and enjoy every salty, sweet bite!

Ritz Cracker Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Print Recipe

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

48 Ritz crackers
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
Festive red and green sprinkles for garnish

Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted butter, and alcohol-free vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and well combined. The filling should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to spread easily onto the crackers.
Lay out 24 crackers on a piece of parchment paper with the flat side facing up. Place a small dollop, about a tablespoon, of the peanut butter mixture onto the center of each cracker. Top each one with a second cracker, pressing down gently to create a sandwich. Ensure the filling reaches the edges but does not spill over excessively.
Place the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each session, until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy. The coconut oil helps the chocolate stay fluid and gives it a nice shine once it sets.
Using a fork or a candy dipping tool, submerge each cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate. Tap the fork against the side of the bowl to let any excess chocolate drip off. Place the coated treats back onto the parchment paper and immediately top them with festive sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.
Allow the treats to sit at room temperature until the chocolate is firm. If you are in a hurry, you can place the tray in the refrigerator for about 15 to 20 minutes. Once the chocolate has hardened completely, they are ready to be served or packaged.

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Diet: Vegetarian