No-Bake Salted Caramel Cracker Bark is a delightful treat that combines sweet caramel with a touch of sea salt for a perfect balance. This easy-to-make dessert features crispy saltine crackers layered with buttery caramel, a luscious chocolate topping, and optional crunchy nuts. It’s an irresistible snack that’s perfect for any occasion, and the recipe requires no baking, making it a quick and convenient option for when you’re in a hurry!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 box (16 oz) saltine crackers
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet (approximately 15×10 inches) with parchment paper, letting it extend over the edges for easy lifting later.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and brown sugar. Heat in 30-second increments in the microwave, stirring after each, until smooth (1-2 minutes total).
- Stir in vanilla extract and salt to the mixture and set aside to cool slightly.
- Arrange saltine crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring no gaps.
- Pour the cooled caramel mixture over the crackers and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel. Let them soften and then spread evenly over the caramel layer.
- Optionally, sprinkle chopped nuts over the chocolate layer, then sprinkle sea salt on top.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Lift the bark out using the parchment edges and place on a cutting board. Cut into pieces with a sharp knife.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Variation
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture and slight tartness.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different flavor.
- Incorporate chopped dried fruit for additional flavor ideas.
Cooking Notes
- The caramel can be prepared on the stovetop if preferred by melting the butter and sugar together.
- After spreading the chocolate, you can run a fork over it to create a decorative pattern.
- Make sure the caramel mixture isn’t too hot when spreading over crackers to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert.
- Include in holiday gift baskets or party trays for additional variety.
Tips
- Use a sharp knife for clean edges when cutting the bark.
- Ensure crackers are evenly placed without gaps for better structure.
- Let the bark sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting if too hard to slice after refrigeration.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150 per serving
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use graham crackers instead of saltines?
Yes, although it will alter the taste slightly. - How long does this bark last?
It can keep in the fridge for up to a week. - Can I melt the caramel on the stovetop instead?
Yes, stovetop melting is an alternative to using the microwave. - Should I freeze the bark for longer storage?
Freezing may affect the texture, so it’s not recommended.
Conclusion
No-Bake Salted Caramel Cracker Bark is a scrumptious fusion of buttery caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy saltines, elevated with a sprinkle of sea salt for that oh-so-addictive sweet and salty flavor combo. This fuss-free dessert is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings quickly and easily, and it’s guaranteed to impress guests without the need for an oven. Whether serving at a party or enjoying as a snack, this bark is a decadent delight that’s ready to enjoy at any time.
Print
No-Bake Salted Caramel Cracker Bark
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No-Bake Salted Caramel Cracker Bark is a delightful treat that combines sweet caramel with a touch of sea salt for a perfect balance. This easy-to-make dessert features crispy saltine crackers layered with buttery caramel, a luscious chocolate topping, and optional crunchy nuts. It’s an irresistible snack that’s perfect for any occasion, and the recipe requires no baking, making it a quick and convenient option for when you’re in a hurry!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 box (16 oz) saltine crackers
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet (approximately 15×10 inches) with parchment paper, letting it extend over the edges for easy lifting later.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and brown sugar. Heat in 30-second increments in the microwave, stirring after each, until smooth (1-2 minutes total).
- Stir in vanilla extract and salt to the mixture and set aside to cool slightly.
- Arrange saltine crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring no gaps.
- Pour the cooled caramel mixture over the crackers and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel. Let them soften and then spread evenly over the caramel layer.
- Optionally, sprinkle chopped nuts over the chocolate layer, then sprinkle sea salt on top.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Lift the bark out using the parchment edges and place on a cutting board. Cut into pieces with a sharp knife.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Notes
- Ensure to use microwave-safe bowls when melting ingredients.
- The bark can be stored in the refrigerator for extended freshness.
- Sea salt enhances the flavor but should be added to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150 per serving
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: No-Bake, Salted Caramel, Cracker Bark, Easy Dessert, Sweet and Salty
