Crispy, creamy, and coated in silky chocolate — these no-bake cookies are the easiest sweet treat you’ll ever make! Perfect for holidays, parties, or quick homemade gifts.
Recipe Card
Servings: 24 sandwich cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Dietary Tags: No-bake, vegetarian, contains peanuts and dairy
Ingredients
- 48 Ritz crackers (or any buttery round crackers)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or melting chocolate)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)
Optional Toppings: Sea salt flakes, crushed peanuts, or sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet: Line with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Assemble the cookies: Spread about 1 teaspoon of peanut butter on a Ritz cracker, then top with another cracker to make a sandwich. Repeat until all sandwiches are assembled.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
- Dip the sandwiches: Using a fork or dipping tool, submerge each sandwich in the melted chocolate, coating completely. Tap off excess and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes, or until chocolate is fully set.
- Serve or store: Enjoy immediately or store for later.
Quick Tip: If the peanut butter is too runny, chill the sandwiches before dipping to prevent slipping.
Brief Introduction
These chocolate-covered peanut butter Ritz cookies are a perfect storm of sweet, salty, and crunchy. Originating as a simple holiday snack, they’ve become a year-round favorite because they’re quick, no-bake, and require just a handful of ingredients. Every bite combines creamy peanut butter and buttery crackers coated in rich chocolate — an addictive treat everyone loves.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Make the Sandwiches
Spread a layer of peanut butter on one cracker, then press another cracker on top. The key is a smooth layer — not too thick — to prevent oozing during dipping.
Tip: Chill the assembled sandwiches for 5 minutes to firm them up before dipping.
2. Melt the Chocolate
Microwave the chocolate chips with coconut oil in short bursts, stirring frequently. You can also melt chocolate over a double boiler for extra control.
Tip: Stir until glossy and lump-free — avoid overheating, as chocolate can seize.
3. Dip the Sandwiches
Drop one sandwich at a time into the melted chocolate. Use a fork to flip and lift, letting excess drip off. Place each dipped cookie on a parchment-lined tray.
Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt or crushed peanuts before the chocolate sets.
4. Chill and Set
Refrigerate until chocolate is firm, about 20 minutes. Once set, transfer cookies to an airtight container.
Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips
Ritz Crackers: The buttery, salty flavor complements peanut butter perfectly. Substitute with any round buttery or gluten-free crackers if needed.
Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy). Natural or oily peanut butters may cause separation.
Substitutions: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter for peanut-free versions.
Chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are standard, but milk or dark chocolate work beautifully too.
Substitutions: Candy melts for a glossy, easy-dipping finish.
Coconut Oil: Helps smooth melted chocolate and gives a shiny finish. Optional but recommended.
Equipment Alternatives:
- No microwave? Melt chocolate using a double boiler.
- No dipping fork? Use two regular forks or tongs to coat evenly.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Flavor Variations:
- Minty Chocolate: Stir ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract into the melted chocolate.
- Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts between the peanut butter layers.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: After setting, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for contrast.
Dietary Variations:
- Peanut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter or soy butter.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free dark chocolate chips and vegan buttery crackers.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with certified gluten-free round crackers.
Serving Ideas:
Serve as part of a dessert tray, holiday cookie platter, or with coffee or milk.
They also make excellent edible gifts — just pack in mini foil tins or treat boxes.
Pairing Suggestion:
Perfect with hot cocoa, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk.
Storage & Make-Ahead Information
Storage:
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing:
Freeze in single layers separated by wax paper for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Make-Ahead:
Assemble and freeze uncoated sandwiches for up to 1 month. Dip in chocolate just before serving for best texture.
Shelf Life Note:
Chocolate may develop a light “bloom” (white film) over time — this is harmless and just a sign of cocoa butter separation.
Nutrition Facts (per cookie)
Calories: 150 kcal | Carbs: 13g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Sodium: 90mg
Dietary Highlights: No-bake, vegetarian
Allergens: Contains peanuts, soy, and dairy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: Not recommended — it may cause the layers to slide apart.
Q: How do I make them glossy like store-bought cookies?
A: Add a teaspoon of coconut oil to the melted chocolate and chill them quickly.
Q: Can I make these without peanut butter?
A: Yes — try marshmallow fluff or Nutella as a filling alternative.
Q: Do they need to be refrigerated?
A: Not required unless your kitchen is warm. Refrigeration helps the chocolate stay firm.
Q: How can I prevent chocolate from pooling underneath?
A: Tap off excess chocolate before placing cookies on the tray, or set on a wire rack to drip cleanly.
Optional Personal Story
This recipe started as a childhood Christmas favorite — my family used to make dozens at a time for cookie tins. Over the years, I’ve realized they’re too good to save for just the holidays. They’re now my go-to last-minute dessert whenever guests drop by. The sweet-salty combo never fails to impress.
Call-to-Action
If you make these Chocolate-Covered Ritz Peanut Butter Cookies, let me know how they turn out! Share your results or tag your creation online — your twist might inspire someone else’s next batch.
