Mini Cinnamon French Toast Bites

 These irresistible bites transform simple oyster crackers into a sweet, crunchy, and buttery treat. Coated in a caramel-like glaze of brown sugar, maple, and cinnamon and studded with toasted pecans, they bake into perfect, snackable clusters. An easy, crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion.

Recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Pecan Crackle Bites

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Cooling Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: About 6 cups

Ingredients

• 1 (9 oz) bag oyster crackers (about 6 cups)

• 1 cup (2 sticks / 226g) unsalted butter

• 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)

• ⅓ cup (80ml) pure maple syrup

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• ¾ teaspoon fine salt

• 1 cup (100g) pecans, roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the oyster crackers in a large heat-proof mixing bowl.

2. Make the Caramel Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and stir constantly until the mixture comes to a full boil. Let it boil for exactly 2 minutes without stirring.

3. Finish the Glaze: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and fully combined. The mixture will bubble vigorously when you add the syrup.

4. Coat the Crackers: Immediately pour the hot glaze over the oyster crackers. Using a heat-proof spatula, gently fold and stir until every cracker is evenly coated. Fold in the chopped pecans.

5. Bake: Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the glaze is bubbly and the crackers appear lightly caramelized.

6. Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and let the baked crackers cool completely on the baking sheet—at least 30 minutes. As they cool, the glaze will harden, creating crisp clusters.

7. Serve: Once completely cool, break into bite-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Tips for Success

• Work Quickly: Have all ingredients measured and ready before starting, as the glaze sets fast once poured.

• Prevent Burning: Stick to the 2-minute boil time for the butter and sugar. Boiling longer can lead to a bitter, burnt taste.

• Even Coating: Gently fold the glaze with the crackers to avoid breaking them. A silicone spatula works best.

• Customize It: Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans. Add ½ cup of toffee bits or white chocolate chips after baking for extra indulgence.

• For Gifting: These store beautifully and make a delightful homemade gift packaged in a cellophane bag or jar.

Enjoy these sweet, crunchy bites as a snack, dessert topping, or party treat!