If you have a sweet tooth that craves a crunchy, buttery delight, you are going to fall head over heels for this Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites with Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers Recipe. Imagine the perfect marriage between the rich peanut butter cream sandwiched inside crispy Ritz Bits crackers and a luscious cinnamon-sugar glaze that tastes just like your favorite churros from the fair. These little bites are irresistible, easy to make, and pack a punch of nostalgic flavor that will have you reaching for more with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing this recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays a crucial role, from the buttery base to that signature cinnamon-spiced sugar, highlighting the textures and flavors elegantly.
- Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers: The star of the show, providing a crispy, peanut-buttery foundation that’s both salty and sweet.
- Unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy element that helps bind the flavors and creates a glossy coating.
- Light brown sugar: Brings caramel undertones and moisture for a chewy, irresistible texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness with a floral hint to balance the cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic churro flavor, divided between buttery glaze and sugar coating.
- Granulated sugar: Mixed with cinnamon to form the crunchy, sweet topping that gives churros their iconic finish.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites with Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lining a rimmed baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil. This step ensures your churro bites cook evenly and cleanup is a breeze, so you can enjoy your treat without any extra hassle.
Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture
In a saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Heat over medium-high until the mixture boils, then reduce to a simmer for a couple of minutes. Once it’s thick and glossy, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This luscious butter syrup will coat the crackers and infuse every bite with that warm cinnamon sweetness.
Step 3: Coat the Crackers
Pour your warm butter mixture over the Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers and gently toss them until every cracker is beautifully coated. This is where the magic happens – each cracker transforms from simple snack to an irresistible churro-inspired treat.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Golden
Spread the coated crackers out evenly on your foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through so all the crackers caramelize evenly. You’re looking for a bubbly, golden-brown finish that signals those rich, sweet flavors are locked in.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the crackers bake, mix together the granulated sugar and remaining cinnamon in a medium bowl. This aromatic mixture will give you that signature churro crunch and flavor boost.
Step 6: Toss and Cool Your Churro Bites
Once the crackers are out of the oven, transfer them to a large bowl and immediately sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar blend. Stir well to coat, then spread the bites out on parchment paper and let them cool completely. This cooling step lets the sugar harden slightly, sealing in the delightful textures.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites with Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to jazz things up, try sprinkling a little powdered sugar on top or drizzle with melted chocolate. A light dusting of additional cinnamon adds extra warmth and color, turning these bites into miniature works of art.
Side Dishes
These churro bites are fantastic on their own but pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of rich hot chocolate for dipping. The pairing elevates the experience, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or as a fun dessert option.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these bites in a festive bowl or mini paper cones for a carnival-inspired presentation. You can also layer them in a clear glass jar with alternating layers of cinnamon sugar to create a visually enticing treat jar that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites with Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crisp and flavorful for up to 3 days – perfect for enjoying over a few snack sessions.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooled churro bites in a sealed container or freezer bag. They maintain their crunch for up to a month, giving you quick access to a sweet fix anytime the craving hits.
Reheating
To refresh the crunch, simply warm the bites in a preheated oven at 300ºF for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy – a gentle oven heat is the best way to bring back that delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use other peanut butter crackers instead of Ritz Bits?
Absolutely! Any peanut butter sandwich crackers will work as a base. Just keep in mind that different brands may vary slightly in sweetness and texture, which can affect the final result.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Since Ritz Bits contain wheat, this exact recipe isn’t gluten-free as is. However, gluten-free sandwich crackers would be a suitable substitute for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I make these churro bites without baking?
Baking helps caramelize the sugar and butter mixture, giving the churritos their signature crunch and flavor. Skipping the oven will result in a softer texture and less depth of flavor.
How spicy is the cinnamon flavor?
The cinnamon adds a warm, sweet spice rather than heat. It perfectly complements the buttery and peanut butter notes without overpowering the palate.
What is the best way to toss the crackers with the cinnamon sugar topping?
Use a large bowl and a gentle folding motion with a spatula or your hands to evenly coat the crackers without breaking them. Doing it while they are warm ensures the sugar sticks beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites with Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers Recipe that hits all the right notes between fun, sweet, and nostalgic. Whether you’re making them for a party or just a treat for yourself, these bites are sure to become a beloved favorite. Give this recipe a try and watch everyone swoon over each crunchy, buttery morsel!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites with Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Churro Bites are a delightful, crunchy snack combining buttery coated Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers baked to a golden brown and then tossed in a cinnamon-sugar blend. Inspired by the classic churro flavor, this easy-to-make treat offers a sweet, cinnamon-spiced twist perfect for sharing or enjoying as a bite-sized indulgence.
Ingredients
Cracker Mixture
- 2 (8.8-oz) boxes Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2½ tsp ground cinnamon, divided
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 6 Tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a rimmed baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil to prevent sticking and facilitate cleanup.
- Make Cinnamon Butter Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and light brown sugar. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until it slightly thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse flavor.
- Coat Crackers: Pour the warm butter mixture over the Ritz Bits Peanut Butter Crackers in a large bowl. Toss the crackers thoroughly ensuring every piece is well-coated with the buttery cinnamon sugar sauce.
- Bake Crackers: Spread the coated crackers evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even cooking, until the crackers are bubbly and golden brown.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mix: While the crackers bake, combine the granulated sugar and 1½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a medium bowl, mixing well to create the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Toss and Cool: Once the crackers come out of the oven, transfer them to a large bowl. Immediately pour the cinnamon sugar mixture over the hot crackers and stir to coat each piece evenly. Spread the finished churro bites onto parchment paper to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can increase the cinnamon quantity slightly in the coating step.
- Use parchment paper or foil on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain crispness for several days.
- These bites are perfect for parties, snacks, or a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea.
