Chocolate Caramel Critters Recipe

Name: Chocolate Caramel Critters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup Land O Lakes Heavy Whipping Cream; 1/4 cup Land O Lakes Butter, cut into chunks; 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar; 1/4 cup light corn syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla; 36 flat pretzel-shaped crisps; String licorice, cut into 2-inch pieces, if desired; 1/2 cup real semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon shortening; Mini candy-covered chocolate pieces; Slivered almonds

Servings: persons

1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup Land O Lakes Heavy Whipping Cream
1/4 cup Land O Lakes Butter, cut into chunks
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
36 flat pretzel-shaped crisps
String licorice, cut into 2-inch pieces, if desired
1/2 cup real semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon shortening
Mini candy-covered chocolate pieces
Slivered almonds

1
Combine all caramel ingredients except vanilla in heavy, non-stick 1-quart saucepan.
2
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 11-15 minutes or until butter is melted and mixture comes to a boil.
3
Continue cooking until candy thermometer reaches 240F to 244F.
4
Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.
5
Pour hot caramel mixture into small heat resistant measuring cup or bowl.
6
Let cool 5-10 minutes or until firm enough to spoon.
7
Line 2 baking sheets with parchment or waxed paper.
8
Lay 18 pretzel crisps on each baking sheet.
9
Spoon about 1 teaspoon caramel on top of each pretzel crisp.
10
Immediately insert licorice pieces into caramel for legs.
11
Let stand 10 minutes or until caramel is cool and almost firm.
12
Combine chocolate chips and shortening in bowl.
13
Microwave 1 minute; stir until chocolate is melted and smooth.
14
Spread 1/4 teaspoon chocolate near top of each caramel critter.
15
Top with 2 chocolate pieces for eyes and 2 almond halves for teeth.
16
Make edible spider web by printing PDF template.
17
Place under layer of wax paper; trace outline of spider web using your favorite white frosting.
18
Set Chocolate Caramel Critters on top.

484

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.
Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup Land O Lakes Heavy Whipping Cream, 1/4 cup Land O Lakes Butter, cut into chunks, 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar, and more.

Yes, Chocolate Caramel Critters falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Chocolate Caramel Critters

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions