Are you craving a sweet treat that's ridiculously easy to make and utterly delicious? Look no further! This recipe for Ritz Crackers and Reese's Thin Mints Dream Bars combines the salty crunch of Ritz crackers with the rich, chocolatey goodness of Reese's Thin Mints for a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. This no-bake recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous dessert cravings. Let's dive into this simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups Ritz crackers, finely crushed
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (12 ounce) package Reese's Thin Mints, finely chopped
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift out the finished bars later. This simple step ensures easy removal and clean-up.
Prepare the crust:
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In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Mix until everything is evenly moistened. Don't overmix; you want some texture in your crust.
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Press the cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to create an even layer.
Layer the deliciousness:
- Evenly sprinkle the chopped Reese's Thin Mints over the cracker crust.
Make the chocolate ganache:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. This is a quick way to create a luscious chocolate ganache.
Assemble and chill:
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Pour the melted chocolate ganache over the Reese's Thin Mints layer, spreading evenly to cover the entire surface.
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely set. This allows the flavors to meld and the bars to firm up.
Serve and enjoy:
- Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
Tips for Success:
- For extra-fine crumbs, pulse the Ritz crackers in a food processor. A finer crumb will create a smoother crust.
- Don't be shy with the Reese's Thin Mints! The more, the merrier.
- If the ganache is too thick, add a teaspoon of heavy cream at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations:
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the cracker crust for extra crunch and flavor.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Extravaganza: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the ganache for added chocolatey goodness.
- Dark Chocolate Lover: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 20g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 12g
- Sugar: Approximately 25g
This Ritz Crackers and Reese's Thin Mints Dream Bars recipe offers a delightful blend of salty and sweet, making it a fantastic treat for any occasion. Enjoy the simplicity and the amazing taste! This easy recipe is perfect for quick dinner ideas or a satisfying after-dinner treat. It's a delicious dish that's sure to impress. These are among the best recipes for satisfying your sweet cravings.