Name: Crunchy Caramel Oyster Crackers Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (9 oz) package oyster crackers; 1 cup brown sugar; ½ tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup butter (2 sticks); 2 tsp vanilla extract

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Introduction

This sweet and crunchy treat comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick snack or party favor. Coated in a buttery caramel glaze with a hint of cinnamon, these oyster crackers are irresistibly delicious and easy to make.

A close-up view of many small, square-shaped crackers coated with a sticky, shiny caramel glaze, piled together on a textured white marbled surface. Each cracker is golden brown with crinkled edges, and the caramel coating forms a glossy layer over them. Some crackers have a small hole in the center, while others are solid, all sprinkled with large grains of white salt that add texture and contrast. A few drops of caramel glaze can be seen pooled around the crackers. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (9 oz) package oyster crackers
1 cup butter (2 sticks)
1 cup brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon
1 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Spread the oyster crackers evenly across the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
Step 5: Pour the caramel mixture over the crackers and toss gently to coat them evenly.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring the crackers halfway through to ensure even coating.
Step 7: Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break apart any clusters and serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper to the caramel mixture.
Use salted butter for a slightly different taste that balances the sweetness.
Try mixing in chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips after baking for added texture.

Storage

Store the cooled caramel crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If they soften, re-crisp by warming in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

A pile of square-shaped snack crackers is shown on a white marbled surface. Each cracker is covered in a thick, shiny caramel coating that gives them a rich amber color with a sticky texture. The crackers have small holes in the center and scalloped edges, while large flakes of sea salt are sprinkled unevenly over the caramel, adding white contrast and texture. The light reflects softly off the caramel, highlighting its glossy finish and the rough salt crystals scattered across the snacks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of crackers instead of oyster crackers?

Yes, small, sturdy crackers like pretzel sticks or cheese crackers can work, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe without an oven?

While baking helps set the caramel coating, you can skip the oven step and let the coated crackers cool at room temperature, though they may be less crunchy.