Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies

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Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies – Sweet, Salty & Holiday-Ready

Creamy peanut butter sandwiched between buttery crackers, dipped in rich chocolate, and topped with festive sprinkles—these no-bake cookies are a holiday favorite for a reason.

Introduction: The Easiest Holiday Cookie You’ll Ever Make

When the holiday season gets busy (and let’s be honest—it always does), having a quick, crowd-pleasing treat in your back pocket is a lifesaver. These Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are just that. They’re no-bake, no-fuss, and absolutely irresistible. The combination of salty crackers, sweet peanut butter filling, and smooth chocolate coating hits every note.

Whether you’re making them for a cookie exchange, a holiday party, or just a cozy night in with hot cocoa, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles. And with endless decorating options, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so magical:

Base & Filling:

  • Ritz crackers (1 box)
    Buttery, crisp, and perfectly salty—ideal for sandwiching.
  • Creamy peanut butter (1 cup)
    Smooth and rich—use your favorite brand or swap for almond, cashew, or sunflower butter.
  • Powdered sugar (1 cup)
    Sweetens and thickens the filling for a creamy, pipeable texture.

Chocolate Coating:

  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup)
    Melts into a smooth, rich coating—dark or milk chocolate also work.
  • Vegetable oil (1 tbsp)
    Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it a glossy finish.

Decorations (Optional):

  • Festive sprinkles
    Adds color and crunch.
  • Crushed candy canes
    Adds peppermint flair and sparkle.

Optional: Drizzle with white chocolate or top with sea salt for a gourmet touch.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Fork or dipping tool
  • Refrigerator

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl:

  • Combine 1 cup peanut butter and 1 cup powdered sugar.

Mix until smooth and well blended.

Tip: Chill the filling for 10 minutes if it’s too soft to spread.

Step 2: Assemble the Cookies

Lay out Ritz crackers in pairs.

Spread a generous spoonful of peanut butter filling on one cracker.

Top with another cracker to form a sandwich.

Repeat until all filling is used.

Step 3: Chill the Sandwiches

Place the filled cracker sandwiches on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

Tip: This helps the sandwiches hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl:

  • Combine 1 cup chocolate chips and 1 tbsp vegetable oil.

Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.

Step 5: Dip the Cookies

Remove sandwiches from the fridge.

Dip each one into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat completely.

Let excess chocolate drip off.

Place back on the parchment-lined sheet.

Step 6: Decorate

While the chocolate is still wet:

  • Sprinkle with festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes.

Optional: Add a drizzle of white chocolate or a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Step 7: Set the Chocolate

Let cookies sit at room temperature or refrigerate until chocolate is fully set.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Arrange on a festive platter and serve.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Yields:

  • 24–30 cookies, depending on cracker count and filling amount.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday cookie trays
  • Gift boxes
  • School parties
  • Movie nights

Pair with:

  • Hot cocoa or peppermint mocha
  • Eggnog or spiced cider
  • A glass of cold milk

Presentation Tip: Wrap in cellophane bags with ribbon for easy gifting.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these festive twists:

PB&J Cookies

Add a dab of jam to the filling for a nostalgic twist.

Coconut Joy

Mix shredded coconut into the filling and top with toasted coconut flakes.

Sweet & Salty

Top with flaky sea salt or use pretzel crisps instead of crackers.

Nut-Free Version

Use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter for allergy-friendly treats.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble and dip up to 3 days in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freeze: Freeze in layers with parchment between for up to 1 month.

Tip: Let frozen cookies thaw at room temp for 15–20 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 24)

  • Calories: ~180
  • Protein: ~3g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18g
  • Fat: ~11g
  • Sugar: ~12g
  • Sodium: ~120mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

These cookies are:

  • Sweet and salty
  • Creamy and crunchy
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a holiday tradition in the making. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a party, or just craving something festive and fun, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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