Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies – Easy No-Bake Holiday Treats

Published: November 10, 2024

Updated: May 13, 2025

Delightfully sweet and salty, these Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies are the perfect no-bake holiday treat. With creamy peanut butter sandwiched between buttery Ritz crackers, all coated in a rich chocolate shell and sprinkled with festive decorations, these cookies are quick, easy, and sure to impress during the holiday season.

Ingredients

1 box Ritz crackers
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups melting chocolate (milk or dark chocolate)
1/4 cup white chocolate (optional for drizzling)
Holiday sprinkles or nonpareils for decoration

Instructions

Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on one Ritz cracker and top with another cracker to form a sandwich. Repeat until all crackers are used.
Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring in between until fully smooth.

Dip each peanut butter sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Drizzle white chocolate over the cookies (optional) and decorate with holiday sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.

Allow the cookies to set at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate hardens.
Serve and enjoy the holiday cheer!

Helpful Tips

Ensure Full Coverage: When dipping the crackers in melted chocolate, use a fork or a dipping tool to ensure even coating and help excess chocolate drip off smoothly.

Work Quickly: Have your sprinkles and decorations ready before you start dipping to ensure they stick while the chocolate is still wet.
Avoid Overheating: When melting the chocolate, use short bursts in the microwave and stir between each round to prevent it from seizing.

Substitutions and Variations

Nut Butter Alternatives: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor or to accommodate allergies.

Chocolate Coating Options: Use white chocolate, dark chocolate, or a combination for a fun marbled look.
Add a Crunch: Mix a bit of crushed candy canes or toffee bits into the peanut butter filling for an extra festive touch.
Flavor Enhancers: Add a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the peanut butter for a unique twist.

Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based butter alternative for a vegan-friendly treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes! These cookies can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for optimal freshness.

Q: What type of chocolate works best for dipping?
A: Melting wafers or high-quality baking chocolate work best as they melt smoothly and set nicely. Chocolate chips can also work if a bit of coconut oil or shortening is added to improve consistency.

Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when it sets?
A: Allow the dipped cookies to set at room temperature rather than in the fridge if you’re concerned about cracking, as rapid cooling can cause the chocolate to crack.

Q: Can I add other fillings to the cookies?
A: Yes! You can add a thin layer of marshmallow fluff or Nutella for a different flavor profile.

Q: How do I store these cookies?
A: Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

More Relevant Recipes

Ritz Cracker Cookies by Kroll’s Korner: For a variation of this no-bake treat, check out this detailed recipe that adds another twist to your holiday baking lineup.