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No-Bake Caramel Bites

These no-bake caramel bites combine rich, gooey caramel with crunchy nuts and a hint of sea salt, all shaped into small, satisfying treats. Made with simple pantry ingredients, they come together quickly without any cooking, resulting in sticky, chewy bites with a glossy chocolate finish. Perfect for a quick indulgence that’s both rustic and refined.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk full fat for best richness
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon caramel extract optional, enhances caramel flavor
  • 1.5 cups crushed graham crackers or biscuits for texture and structure
  • 1/2 cup chopped toasted nuts pecans or almonds work well
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt flakes for sprinkling on top
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips for optional coating
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract brightens flavor

Equipment

  • Small mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment
  • Refrigerator-safe dish
  • Microwave
  • Cookie scoop or spoon

Method
 

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and melted butter. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth and just bubbling around the edges, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add caramel extract and a pinch of sea salt to the warm mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. The mixture should smell warm and inviting with a caramel aroma.
  4. Pour in the crushed graham crackers and fold with a spatula until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture is thick but scoopable. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a few more crumbs.
  5. Fold in the chopped toasted nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
  6. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the mixture and roll into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place each on the prepared parchment-lined sheet, working quickly to prevent sticking.
  7. Gently press each ball down slightly to flatten just a bit, helping them set evenly.
  8. Refrigerate the tray for at least 30 minutes until the bites are firm and chilled.
  9. Meanwhile, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy.
  10. Dip each chilled caramel bite into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat completely. Place back on the parchment and refrigerate for an additional 10 minutes to set the chocolate.
  11. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate-coated bites before they fully set, for an added flavor burst and crunch. Serve straight from the fridge for the best chewy, gooey texture.

Notes

Keep the bites refrigerated for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage. For a softer bite, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.