Peppermint Chocolate Ritz Delights
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and refreshing with these Peppermint Chocolate Ritz Delights! Inspired by a popular Girl Scout cookie flavor, this delightful dessert features crunchy Ritz crackers dipped in rich melting chocolate, enhanced with a hint of peppermint extract. Ideal for holiday gatherings or as a fun treat year-round, these cookies are not only easy to make but also bring a festive spirit to any occasion. The combination of salty and sweet will have you reaching for another long after they've chilled and set.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Melting Chocolate
1/2 lb (Chopped or in chips)
Peppermint Extract
2-3 drops (For flavoring)
Ritz Crackers
1 package (Whole)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing your workspace with a clean surface. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2
In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate over low heat. Stir continuously to ensure it doesn't burn.
3
Once the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, remove it from heat. Carefully add 2 to 3 drops of peppermint extract, stirring well to combine. Be cautious not to add too much, as the peppermint flavor can quickly overpower the chocolate.
4
Using a fork or a dipper, gently dip each Ritz cracker into the melted chocolate, making sure it's fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
5
Place the dipped crackers on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart and do not touch each other to prevent sticking.
6
Refrigerate the cookie sheet for 30-40 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened completely.
7
Once firm, transfer the cookies to a serving platter and enjoy your homemade Peppermint Chocolate Ritz Delights!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peppermint Chocolate Ritz Delights?
They are a sweet and salty no-bake treat featuring Ritz crackers dipped in peppermint-flavored melting chocolate, similar to a popular Girl Scout cookie.
What ingredients are required for this recipe?
You will need 1/2 lb of melting chocolate, 2 to 3 drops of peppermint extract, and one package of Ritz crackers.
How should I melt the chocolate?
Melt the chocolate in a small saucepan over low heat while stirring continuously to prevent it from burning.
When do I add the peppermint extract?
Add the peppermint extract after the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, and once it has been removed from the heat.
How many drops of peppermint extract should I use?
The recipe recommends using 2 to 3 drops to ensure the flavor does not overpower the chocolate.
How do I coat the Ritz crackers?
Use a fork or a dipper to gently dip each whole Ritz cracker into the melted chocolate until it is fully coated.
How do I remove excess chocolate from the crackers?
After dipping the cracker, allow any excess chocolate to drip off back into the pan before placing it on the baking sheet.
What should I use to line my baking sheet?
You should line the baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
How long do the cookies need to refrigerate?
Refrigerate the cookies for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened completely.
Is this a bake or no-bake recipe?
This is a no-bake recipe as the treats are set in the refrigerator rather than cooked in the oven.
Can I use chocolate chips for this recipe?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1/2 lb of melting chocolate which can be in the form of chips or chopped pieces.
How should I space the crackers on the baking sheet?
Ensure the crackers are spaced apart and do not touch each other so they do not stick together while hardening.
What is the flavor profile of these delights?
They offer a combination of salty crackers, rich sweet chocolate, and refreshing peppermint.
Are these cookies good for holidays?
Yes, they are described as ideal for holiday gatherings and bring a festive spirit to any occasion.
Can I use a microwave to melt the chocolate?
While the recipe specifies a saucepan, you can use a microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
How many crackers are in a package?
The recipe calls for one standard package of Ritz crackers.
What should I do if the peppermint flavor is too strong?
To avoid this, be very cautious and stick to the recommended 2-3 drops as extract is highly concentrated.
What tool is best for dipping?
A standard kitchen fork or a specialized chocolate dipping tool is recommended for coating the crackers.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
No, you should use foil or parchment paper instead of grease to ensure the chocolate sets properly.
Can children help make these?
Yes, this is an easy and fun recipe that is suitable for involving family members, though adults should handle the stovetop melting.
What is the preparation for the melting chocolate?
The chocolate should be chopped or in chip form before melting.
How should I store the finished cookies?
Once firm, transfer them to a serving platter or an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.
What is the best way to ensure the chocolate stays smooth?
Stir the chocolate continuously over low heat and do not let any water come into contact with it.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
While melting chocolate is specified, you can choose dark, milk, or white chocolate based on your preference.
How do I know when the cookies are ready to eat?
They are ready once the chocolate coating is completely firm and no longer tacky to the touch.
Should I use peppermint oil or extract?
The recipe specifically calls for peppermint extract for flavoring the chocolate.
Can I add toppings like sprinkles?
Yes, you can add festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint to the top before the chocolate hardens in the fridge.
What makes these like Thin Mints?
The combination of crunchy texture, chocolate coating, and peppermint flavor mimics the classic Girl Scout cookie.
Is the peppermint extract added while the pan is on the heat?
No, you should remove the chocolate from the heat before stirring in the peppermint extract.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe uses one package of Ritz crackers, so it will yield as many cookies as there are crackers in the package.