These delightful Dandy-Do Cookies are a perfect balance of sweet and salty, combining caramelized condensed milk, buttery Ritz crackers, and crunchy peanuts. They’re easy to make and a unique treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1-2 sleeves Ritz crackers
Directions
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and arrange Ritz crackers in a single layer.
2. Make the Caramel Mixture:
In a small saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat for 7-8 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.
3. Add Milk and Vanilla:
Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the milk, vanilla, and chopped peanuts until smooth. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, or until the mixture thickens, then remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Cookies:
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, top each Ritz cracker with the caramel peanut mixture.
5. Cool and Store:
Allow the cookies to fully cool on the parchment paper. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.
Serving
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
- Alternate Nuts: Swap the peanuts for chopped pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.
- Sprinkle of Sea Salt: For a sweet and salty contrast, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the caramel before it cools.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cookies for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cracker?
A: Yes, you can try using a similar buttery cracker, but Ritz crackers provide the perfect balance of salty and sweet in this recipe.
Q: How can I make the caramel smoother?
A: Be sure to cook the caramel mixture over medium heat, stirring often, and reduce the heat to low when adding the milk and vanilla for a smooth, lump-free texture.
Conclusion
Dandy-Do Cookies are a fun and easy treat that combines a satisfying crunch with a rich caramel flavor. They’re quick to prepare and perfect for parties or afternoon snacks. Enjoy this delicious blend of flavors with family and friends!