Ritz Churro Bites Recipe

Crispy Ritz Churro Bites Recipe: Sweet Twist on a Classic Snack

Crispy, golden churro bites meet the irresistible crunch of Ritz crackers in a delightful fusion that’ll make your taste buds dance.

This Ritz churro bites recipe combines the classic sweetness of churros with a surprising salty twist.

Buttery crackers coated in cinnamon sugar create an addictive snack that disappears faster than you can sprinkle the last bit of sugar.

The magic happens when simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of crisp and sweet, guaranteed to impress at any gathering.

Who can resist a treat that’s this easy to make and impossible to put down?

Prepare to become the snack hero everyone will be talking about.

FAQs

  • Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit additional salt in the recipe to prevent the dish from becoming too salty.

  • How do I know when the crackers are perfectly coated?

The crackers should be evenly covered with the butter and brown sugar mixture, looking glossy and slightly wet before baking.

  • What if I don't have parchment paper?

You can use a silicone baking mat or lightly grease a baking sheet to prevent the crackers from sticking during baking.

  • How long can these Ritz Churro Bites stay fresh?

They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, maintaining their crispy texture and sweet flavor.

Ritz Churro Bites Fun Features

  • These Ritz Churro Bites come together in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for spontaneous snack cravings or last-minute dessert needs.
  • The combination of buttery Ritz crackers, sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, and crispy texture creates a universally loved snack that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Using basic pantry staples like Ritz crackers, butter, sugar, and cinnamon, you can transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary sweet treat without complex shopping lists.
  • These bite-sized delights are ideal for gatherings, movie nights, potlucks, or casual celebrations, offering a fun twist on traditional churros that's easy to share and enjoy.

Ritz Churro Bites Ingredient List

Base Ingredients:
  • Ritz Crackers: Classic buttery crackers that form the crispy foundation of these sweet bites.
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a caramel-like coating for the crackers.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds deep, sweet caramel notes to the cracker coating.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, sweet depth to the butter and brown sugar mixture.
  • Granulated Sugar, Cinnamon: Create a classic churro-inspired sweet and spicy topping that complements the buttery base.
Optional Finishing Touch:
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking during baking.

Equipment for Ritz Churro Bites

  • Baking sheet: Flat metal pan for even baking.
  • Parchment paper: Non-stick liner for easy cleanup.
  • Saucepan: Medium-sized pot for melting butter mixture.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient quantities.
  • Spatula: To spread butter mixture and handle crackers.
  • Mixing bowl: For combining sugar and cinnamon topping.
  • Oven mitts: Protect hands when handling hot baking sheet.

Making Ritz Churro Bites

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Get your oven warming up to 350F.

Grab a baking sheet and cover it with parchment paper.

Spread out the Ritz crackers in a single, neat layer so they’re not overlapping.

Step 2: Create Caramel Drizzle

In a saucepan, combine:
  • Butter
  • Brown sugar
  • Vanilla

Melt these ingredients together over medium heat, stirring until smooth and well blended.

Pour the warm mixture evenly across the crackers, making sure each cracker gets a delicious coating.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven.

Bake for 10 minutes, but don’t forget to flip the crackers halfway through cooking to ensure even caramelization and crunch.

Step 4: Sprinkle Cinnamon Magic

In a small bowl, mix together:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Ground cinnamon

Right after pulling the crackers out of the oven, while they’re still piping hot, generously dust the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the churro bites to cool completely.

Once cooled, break them apart into bite-sized pieces.

These sweet, crispy treats are now ready to be devoured and enjoyed by everyone.

Pro Tips for Ritz Churro Bites

  • Watch crackers closely during baking to avoid overcooking, as they can quickly turn from golden to burnt.
  • Use a pastry brush to spread the butter mixture evenly, guaranteeing each cracker gets a consistent flavor.
  • Adjust sugar quantity based on preference, reducing for a less sweet treat or adding more for intense caramelization.
  • Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to create unique taste profiles beyond traditional cinnamon.
  • Keep bites in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.

Ritz Churro Bites Creative Twists

  • Gluten-Free Churro Bites: Replace Ritz crackers with gluten-free rice crackers or almond flour-based crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Cinnamon Crunch: Swap butter with coconut oil and use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar to create a plant-based alternative.
  • Chocolate Churro Nibbles: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the baked crackers after adding cinnamon sugar for a rich chocolate variation.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of granulated sugar to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining sweet flavor profile.

Serving Ritz Churro Bites

  • Churro Crunch Party Platter: Arrange bites on a rustic wooden board with small dipping sauces like chocolate, caramel, or dulce de leche for a festive gathering.
  • Sweet Dessert Companion: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to elevate the crispy, sugary texture and create a delightful contrast.
  • Snack Time Surprise: Pack these bites in cute mason jars or small containers for school lunches, picnics, or movie night treats that everyone will love.
  • Breakfast Twist: Crumble over yogurt parfaits or morning oatmeal to add a crunchy, cinnamon-sugar element that transforms ordinary breakfast into something special.

Ritz Churro Bites Storage Tips

  • Store cooled Ritz Churro Bites in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bag. Keeps quality for 2-3 weeks. Label with date for easy tracking.
  • Warm at 300F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Spread on baking sheet in single layer for even heating.
  • Bring frozen or refrigerated bites to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance texture and flavor.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ritz Churro Bites Recipe

Ritz Churro Bites Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Ritz churro bites blend classic Mexican churro sweetness with crispy Ritz cracker magic, creating an irresistible snack. Cinnamon sugar coating and easy preparation make these treats perfect for quick dessert cravings you can enjoy anytime.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 box (8.8 ounces / 249 grams) peanut butter Ritz bits
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick / 113 grams) butter
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar

Coating Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon (2 grams) cinnamon

Flavoring Ingredient:

  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper, carefully laying out the crackers in a uniform single layer.
  2. Create a rich coating by gently melting butter, brown sugar, and vanilla together in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Drizzle the warm, glossy mixture evenly across the crackers, ensuring complete and consistent coverage.
  4. Transfer the coated crackers to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, rotating the pan midway through to guarantee even caramelization.
  5. While baking, quickly combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl for the final topping.
  6. Immediately after removing from the oven, generously dust the hot crackers with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, allowing the residual heat to help the topping adhere.
  7. Allow the churro bites to cool completely at room temperature, which will help them crisp up and become easier to break into individual pieces.
  8. Once cooled, gently separate the crackers into bite-sized segments, creating a delightful sweet treat perfect for sharing.

Notes

  • Swap out regular Ritz crackers for gluten-free alternatives to make this recipe celiac-friendly and inclusive for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Control sweetness levels by adjusting sugar quantities in the coating and topping to suit different taste preferences or dietary needs.
  • Experiment with alternative spices like cardamom or nutmeg to create unique flavor variations while maintaining the classic churro-inspired essence.
  • Store these bites in an airtight container for maximum crispness, ensuring they remain crunchy and delectable for several days after preparation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 170
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 140 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star