This simple mint-chocolate snack has been a holiday staple in my kitchen ever since I first experimented with melting peppermint chips one December afternoon. I was looking for a last-minute treat to bring to a neighborhood cookie swap and wanted something that was fast, portable, and fun to decorate. The pairing of flaky, buttery Ritz crackers with a glossy mint-chocolate coating delivered exactly that—an irresistible contrast of salty crunch and cool, sweet mint that disappeared within minutes wherever I served them.

I discovered how flexible and forgiving this combination is: swap toppings and you instantly have different flavor profiles, make a double batch for parties, or keep a tray in the fridge for an easy after-dinner nibble. What makes these particularly special is the texture contrast—the light snap of the cracker against the melt-in-your-mouth mint coating—and the nostalgic nod to classic mint-chocolate candies. Over the years these have become my go-to when I need something impressive with almost no work, and guests always ask for the recipe.

Ingredients

• 10-ounce package Andes Creme de Menthe baking chips: These mint-flavored baking chips melt smoothly and give a bright mint flavor; if unavailable, use chopped Thin Mint chocolates or compatible mint chips. Look for the baking chips labeled for melting for best gloss.
• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers (about 60–64 crackers): Choose the original buttery Ritz for the classic sweet-and-salty contrast; avoid stale or broken crackers—fresh, crisp ones make all the difference.
• Optional toppings: Keep a small assortment on hand—sprinkles, crushed candy cane, decorative sugar, crushed peanuts, flaky sea salt. Use about 1/4 cup total per topping as needed for decoration.
• Parchment paper: Not an ingredient to eat, but essential for letting the cookies set without sticking and for neat storage and transfer.

Instructions

Prepare your workspace: Line a large cutting board or several baking sheets with parchment paper and set them within easy reach. Arrange the crackers in a single layer near your melting station so you can dunk and set without the chocolate cooling too much. Melt the mint chocolate: Place the 10-ounce package of mint baking chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on medium-high in 20-second increments, stirring thoroughly after each interval. Expect roughly 60–90 seconds total depending on your microwave; stop when most chips are melted and stir until perfectly smooth. Avoid overheating—if the chocolate is grainy, let it rest to finish melting off the residual heat. Dunk the crackers: Working one at a time, use a fork to gently submerge a single Ritz into the melted chips, pressing slightly so the chocolate coats evenly. Lift the cracker and tap the fork on the bowl edge to let extra chocolate drip off—this prevents huge globs and ensures thin, even coverage. Place the coated crackers onto the prepared parchment. Decorate while wet: If you plan to add sprinkles, crushed candy, or flaky salt, sprinkle them immediately while the coating is still wet so they adhere. For a contrasting chocolate drizzle, wait until the coating sets, then drizzle with a small amount of melted dark or white chocolate. Set and store: Let the chocolate harden at room temperature for at least 40 minutes. To speed things up, transfer the parchment-lined board to the refrigerator for 10–20 minutes until firm. Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to five days or in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Storage Tips

Store finished pieces in a single layer or with parchment sheets between layers in an airtight container. For short-term storage (up to five days) keep the container at a cool room temperature away from direct sunlight—this preserves the cracker’s crispness. For longer storage up to two weeks, place them in the refrigerator; allow refrigerated cookies to come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving to remove any chill from the chocolate. To freeze, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature, avoiding condensation by keeping them in a sealed container while warming.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find Andes baking chips, chop a bag of thin mint-style chocolates or high-quality mint chocolate bars and melt gently, adding a teaspoon of neutral oil for smoother gloss if needed. For a dairy-free option, seek out vegan mint chips made with plant-based cocoa butter and choose gluten-free crackers—keep in mind texture and flavor will shift slightly. Swap Ritz for other round buttery crackers, water crackers, or even graham crackers for a sweeter base; adjust the chocolate quantity if using larger or thicker crackers. When substituting toppings, use similar textures: crushed pretzels for extra saltiness or toasted coconut for chew and aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these on a simple porcelain platter lined with parchment for parties, or package them in cellophane bags with ribbon as gifts. Pair with hot coffee, peppermint tea, or a dark roast to cut through the sweetness. For holiday gatherings, arrange them around a bowl of fresh cranberries or rosemary sprigs for color contrast. Cut the baking time in half by pairing with bite-sized cheeses and fruit—these crackers make an unconventional but fun addition to dessert charcuterie boards.

Cultural Background

The idea of pairing salted crackers with chocolate is rooted in the broader tradition of sweet-and-salty combinations beloved in many Western sweet shops. Using mint chocolates echoes the popularity of peppermint candies and Thin Mint cookies in North America during winter holidays. This humble creation borrows from classic chocolate-dipped pretzel and cookie recipes, celebrating contrasts in texture and flavor while keeping production streamlined and accessible for home cooks.

Seasonal Adaptations

For winter holidays, add crushed candy cane or red-and-white sprinkles and use green mint chips for festive color. In spring, swap mint for white chocolate and top with pastel sprinkles. For summer gatherings, sprinkle with toasted coconut and a pinch of sea salt for a tropical twist. Small adjustments—like using orange-flavored chips for autumn or adding cinnamon sugar—can tailor the treat to any season without changing the core technique.

Meal Prep Tips

Prepare multiple batches and keep the extras in airtight containers for quick dessert servings throughout the week. Portion into small bags of 6–8 pieces for easy grab-and-go snacks or pack into glass jars layered with parchment for longer storage. If using different toppings, label the containers so guests know what to expect. When prepping ahead, set aside a chilled spot in the fridge to speed up setting between batches if you’re making several trays.

These mint-chocolate dipped crackers are proof that a few quality ingredients and simple technique can produce something festive and memorable. Whether you make them for a party, gift-giving, or a quiet evening at home, they’re an easy way to add a little homemade charm to any occasion. Give the recipe your own twist and enjoy sharing the crunch.