If you love sweet-salty snacks and crave the nostalgic taste of churros with none of the fuss, Ritz Bits Churros are about to make your snack dreams come true. Imagine crisp, peanut-buttery Ritz Bits, tossed in melted butter, then showered in a golden cinnamon-sugar coating and toasted to crunchy, caramelized perfection. This recipe transforms an already irresistible snack into something so craveable, you’ll want to share it at every party—or maybe just keep a batch all to yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the magic of Ritz Bits Churros is how straightforward the ingredient list is—classic pantry staples come together to create big flavor with fun texture. Each element has a special job: peanut butter for richness, cinnamon for warmth, sugar for sparkle, and butter for that luscious churro vibe.
- Ritz Bits peanut butter sandwiches: The star—these mini crackers add both crunch and a creamy peanutty center that makes every bite addicting.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Tossing the crackers in melted butter helps that cinnamon-sugar stick and gives everything a churro-like richness.
- Granulated sugar: For sparkle, sweetness, and that classic churro feel as it caramelizes just a bit while baking.
- Ground cinnamon: A must—this warming spice brings true churro flavor to the party.
- Optional pinch of salt: If you want to amp up contrast and balance, a little saltiness makes the sweet notes sing.
How to Make Ritz Bits Churros
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to ensure none of that tasty cinnamon sugar sticks to the pan instead of your Ritz Bits Churros.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, stir together your granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and an optional pinch of salt. This simple mixture is what gives these Ritz Bits Churros their signature sweet, fragrant coating—it’s worth pausing to inhale that cozy scent!
Step 3: Coat the Crackers in Butter
Spread your Ritz Bits peanut butter sandwiches out in an even layer on the lined baking sheet. Drizzle the melted butter over top and gently toss to coat. The butter not only helps the flavor stick, but also gives each bite that traditional churro mouthfeel.
Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Sugar
Sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttery crackers. Give everything another good (but gentle) toss—using your hands or a spatula—to make sure each bit is beautifully coated and ready to caramelize in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring once halfway through. You’re looking for the Ritz Bits Churros to turn a lovely golden color and for the cinnamon sugar to get a little toasty and fragrant. Let the snack cool for a few minutes; the flavor and texture get even better as it sets.
How to Serve Ritz Bits Churros
Garnishes
For the ultimate finishing touch, give your Ritz Bits Churros a quick extra dusting of cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm. You could even grate a little dark chocolate or shake on some powdered sugar if you’re feeling festive!
Side Dishes
These beauties pair perfectly with something creamy and cool: think vanilla ice cream, a simple Greek yogurt dip, or even a spicy hot chocolate for that true churro-shop experience. They also shine on a dessert platter next to fresh fruit or salty-sweet party mix.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Ritz Bits Churros into a show-stopper by piling them high in a tumbler, serving them in tiny snack cups for parties, or even layering them in parfait glasses with pudding and whipped cream. For a dipping treat, offer caramel or chocolate sauce on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Ritz Bits Churros will stay crisp and tasty for up to five days, making them perfect for lunch snacks, quick desserts, or midnight munchies.
Freezing
If you want to stash away some for later, allow them to cool completely before freezing in a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep for about a month, though the texture is best if enjoyed fresh. Thaw at room temperature before eating or refreshing in a low oven.
Reheating
To bring back the just-baked magic, spread the Ritz Bits Churros in a single layer on a baking sheet and heat in a 325°F oven for about 5 minutes. They’ll crisp up and taste like they’ve just come out of the oven!
FAQs
Can I use the cheese-filled Ritz Bits instead?
Absolutely! If you want a more pronounced sweet-and-salty twist, the cheese-filled Ritz Bits are delicious—the sugar and cinnamon give them a churro makeover that’s surprisingly addictive.
Are Ritz Bits Churros gluten-free?
Unfortunately, traditional Ritz Bits contain wheat, so this version isn’t naturally gluten-free. If you find a gluten-free sandwich cracker that you love, the method will work just as well!
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated?
You can! Brown sugar adds a richer, deeper flavor and will make your Ritz Bits Churros a bit more caramel-like. The result is extra cozy, though the coating may be slightly stickier.
Do I have to use peanut butter Ritz Bits?
Pepanut butter is classic for richness, but you could try other filled crackers or plain mini crackers with your favorite nut or cookie butter drizzled into the mix before baking.
Is there a way to make these dairy-free?
Definitely! Simply swap the unsalted butter for your favorite dairy-free margarine or coconut oil; the cinnamon-sugar magic works just the same on Ritz Bits Churros.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Ritz Bits Churros, you’ll see how little effort can turn simple ingredients into something wildly craveable and moreish. Grab a box, gather loved ones, and let this sweet, crispy treat become your newest snack tradition!
Print
Ritz Bits Churros Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these easy-to-make Ritz Bits Churros. A sweet and crunchy snack that’s perfect for parties or as a treat any time of the day.
Ingredients
Ritz Bits Churros:
- 1 (8.8-ounce) box Ritz Bits peanut butter sandwiches
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Optional pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar mixture: In a small bowl, mix the sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt if using.
- Coat Ritz Bits: Spread the Ritz Bits on the baking sheet, drizzle with melted butter, toss gently to coat, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture, and toss again to coat.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant.
- Cool and serve: Let cool briefly before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Try using cheese-filled Ritz Bits for a sweet-salty variation.
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