Easter Ritz Peanut Butter Patties

Sweet, salty, crunchy, and absolutely adorable, Easter Ritz Peanut Butter Patties are the perfect no-bake treat to celebrate the spring season. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these delightful little bites combine creamy peanut butter, crisp buttery crackers, and smooth chocolate coating — then get a festive makeover with pastel sprinkles and Easter-themed decorations. These easy-to-make confections are ideal for kids’ activities, dessert platters, Easter baskets, or sweet homemade gifts that bring a touch of holiday cheer.

A playful spin on the classic peanut butter sandwich cookie, these Ritz patties offer the ultimate blend of textures and flavors. The saltiness of the crackers perfectly balances the rich sweetness of the chocolate and peanut butter, creating a satisfying snack that’s hard to stop at just one. Whether you’re planning an Easter brunch, prepping for a spring party, or simply looking for a creative kitchen project, these treats are fun, festive, and sure to bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required — quick, easy, and beginner-friendly
• The perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors
• Great for Easter baskets, dessert tables, and gifting
• Ideal for kids to help with decorating
• Customizable with toppings, fillings, and chocolate coatings
• Uses minimal ingredients and pantry staples
• Easy to make in large batches for parties or events
• A nostalgic treat with a fun, seasonal twist

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 24 patties
• Serving Size: 1 patty

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 9g

Ingredients

For the Patties:

• 48 Ritz crackers (or similar buttery round crackers)
• 150g creamy peanut butter (or almond/sunflower butter)
• 300g chocolate chips or chocolate melts (milk, dark, or white)

Optional Toppings and Decorations:

• 50g pastel sprinkles or candy pearls
• Crushed nuts or mini chocolate chips
• Shredded coconut (plain or colored)
• White chocolate drizzle
• Candy-coated chocolate eggs
• Edible Easter decorations (bunnies, flowers, mini chicks)
• Food coloring (if tinting white chocolate for decoration)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Assemble the peanut butter patties

• Lay out half of the Ritz crackers flat side up on a tray.
• Spoon about 1–1½ tsp of peanut butter onto each cracker and spread gently.
• Top with another cracker to form a sandwich, pressing lightly to secure.
• Place patties in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up.

2. Melt the chocolate

• In a heatproof bowl, melt chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
• If desired, add 1 tsp oil (coconut or sunflower) to thin the chocolate for easier coating.

3. Coat the patties

• Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each patty into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
• Let excess chocolate drip off, then place on a parchment-lined tray.
• Repeat until all patties are coated.

4. Decorate while wet

• Immediately decorate with sprinkles, candy eggs, or Easter-themed toppings before the chocolate sets.
• If desired, drizzle with tinted white chocolate for added color and design.

5. Chill to set

• Refrigerate patties for 15–30 minutes or until chocolate is fully hardened.
• Once set, transfer to an airtight container or serve directly.

Ingredient Background

• Ritz crackers bring a light, buttery crispness with a hint of salt that complements sweet fillings and coatings.
• Peanut butter provides creamy richness and protein while binding the sandwich together.
• Chocolate coating creates a luscious outer shell that contrasts beautifully with the salty crunch inside.
• Sprinkles and decorations add festive charm, making each patty look like a bite-sized Easter delight.
• Optional toppings enhance texture and create a custom flavor experience for each patty.

Technique Tips

• Chill peanut butter-filled patties before dipping to make handling easier.
• Use a fork or dipping tool to evenly coat patties and allow excess chocolate to drip off.
• Stir chocolate frequently while melting to avoid scorching.
• Work in small batches if chocolate starts to thicken — reheat gently as needed.
• Decorate quickly after dipping to ensure toppings stick before chocolate sets.
• For uniform appearance, place patties on a wire rack over parchment to allow clean drips.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Arrange patties in mini cupcake liners for a gift box presentation.
• Stack in a glass jar with a ribbon for Easter gift jars.
• Place on pastel platters or decorative Easter trays for party display.
• Layer on a dessert board alongside other spring-themed treats.
• Serve with fruit skewers and tea sandwiches for Easter brunch.
• Display in an egg carton lined with tissue paper for a rustic, themed look.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use creamy peanut butter for easier spreading — avoid chunky varieties for smooth patties.
• Freeze filled patties briefly if peanut butter is too soft.
• If making ahead, store in a cool place to prevent chocolate from melting.
• Try a blend of dark and white chocolate for flavor contrast.
• Color white chocolate in pastel tones for a more Easter-themed look.
• For extra crunch, add crushed graham crackers or cereal to the peanut butter filling.
• Double the batch — these treats disappear quickly at parties.

Recipe Variations

• Use flavored nut butters like almond, cashew, or hazelnut spread.
• Add a thin layer of jam inside each patty for a fruity surprise.
• Try white chocolate coating with lemon zest or coconut topping.
• Add crushed pretzels inside the sandwich for extra crunch.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch.
• Replace peanut butter with cookie butter or a dairy-free spread.
• Dip only half of each patty in chocolate for a two-tone design.

Freezing and Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the fridge if room is warm or humid, especially in warmer climates.
• Freeze for up to 2 months — place patties in layers with parchment in between.
• Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
• Avoid stacking decorated patties without a layer between to preserve decorations.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use whole grain crackers or gluten-free options.
• Choose natural peanut butter with no added sugar or salt.
• Coat with dark chocolate for richer antioxidants and less sugar.
• Add flaxseed or chia seeds to the peanut butter for extra nutrition.
• Skip the sprinkles and top with chopped nuts or toasted coconut.
• Use a banana-sweetened filling for a naturally sweet option.
• Try sugar-free chocolate chips or stevia-sweetened alternatives.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Add to Easter dessert buffets alongside cupcakes and cookies.
• Include in treat bags for party favors or gift baskets.
• Display on a spring-themed dessert table with floral decor.
• Serve as a sweet snack option during egg hunts and games.
• Pair with milk, tea, or fruit punch for a fun kids’ party snack.
• Use as edible place cards — personalize with icing or candy letters.
• Stack in a pastel cake stand for a stunning centerpiece.

Special Equipment

• Mixing bowls and spoon
• Heatproof bowl for melting chocolate
• Fork or dipping tool
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Small offset spatula (optional for neat spreading)
• Cooling rack or tray for drying
• Airtight containers for storage

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these peanut-free?

• Yes, use sunflower seed butter or other nut-free spreads as an alternative. It provides a similar creamy texture and pairs just as well with chocolate and crackers while being safe for those with peanut allergies.

2. Can I use white chocolate instead of dark or milk?

• Absolutely — white chocolate works beautifully and also allows for coloring with pastel shades, giving a festive Easter appearance. Just be cautious while melting, as white chocolate can scorch more easily.

3. Do I need to refrigerate these patties?

• Only if your kitchen is warm or humid. Otherwise, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. Refrigeration helps keep the chocolate firm and the decorations intact, especially in warmer climates.

4. How long do these last?

• These patties stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored at room temperature, and up to 2 weeks if refrigerated. They also freeze well for up to 2 months, making them great for make-ahead treats.

5. Can I prepare them ahead for a party?

• Yes, they’re an excellent make-ahead option. You can assemble and decorate them a day or two in advance and store them in a cool place until you’re ready to serve or gift them.

6. What’s the best way to decorate them for Easter?

• Use pastel sprinkles, mini candy-coated eggs, colored shredded coconut, or drizzle with tinted white chocolate. Edible Easter decorations like bunnies, chicks, or flowers make them extra festive.

7. Can kids help with this recipe?

• Absolutely! This is a fantastic recipe for kids to get involved. They can help spread the peanut butter, dip the patties, and most of all — have fun decorating with their favorite toppings and colors.

8. Can I make mini versions?

• Yes, mini patties are a great variation. You can use smaller crackers or cut larger ones in half to make bite-sized treats that are perfect for party platters or individual servings.

9. Can I use flavored peanut butter for these patties?

• Yes, flavored nut butters like chocolate peanut butter, cinnamon almond butter, or honey peanut butter work well and can enhance the overall taste of the patties. Just ensure the consistency is not too runny, as thicker spreads help the patties hold better.

10. Can I package these patties for gifting?

• Definitely! These make excellent edible gifts. Once the chocolate is set, place patties in mini cupcake liners and arrange them in gift boxes, treat bags, or pastel tins. Add a ribbon and a tag for a personalized Easter gift that’s homemade, thoughtful, and delicious.

Conclusion

Easter Ritz Peanut Butter Patties are the perfect sweet-and-salty treat that brings seasonal charm and delicious flavor to your Easter celebrations. With buttery crackers, creamy peanut butter, and smooth chocolate coating, these no-bake delights offer the ideal blend of simplicity, creativity, and crowd-pleasing appeal.

Whether you’re crafting Easter baskets, setting up a dessert table, or just sharing a fun kitchen moment with loved ones, this recipe is a festive favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Fun, customizable, and endlessly adorable, these patties are a must-try addition to your springtime dessert lineup.

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