Craving something uniquely sweet, crunchy, and utterly irresistible? Look no further than the delightful Dandy-Do Cookies! These cookies are a masterpiece of culinary simplicity and charm, blending the rich, creamy textures of caramel and sweetened condensed milk with the satisfying crunch of peanuts and Ritz crackers. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a special treat for gatherings, or even a fun baking project with the kids, Dandy-Do Cookies promise to steal the show.
Recipe Snapshot:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
Every holiday season, Grandma would gather the grandchildren around, a tin of Ritz crackers in hand, and together we’d make her special treat—what she called “Dandy-Do Cookies.” It was more than just a cookie; it was a moment of laughter, the warmth of family, and the sweetness of shared memories. Today, every bite takes me back to those precious times.
Shopping List
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can)
- Butter (1/3 cup)
- Brown sugar (1/3 cup)
- Milk (3 tablespoons)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- Peanuts, roughly chopped (1 cup)
- Ritz crackers (1-2 sleeves)
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1-2 sleeves Ritz crackers
Preparation Steps:
- Prepare Your Pan: Begin by lining a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer, covering the base of the sheet. This will form the crunchy foundation of our cookies.
- Cook the Caramel Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Stirring often, cook this mixture over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes. The goal is to meld the ingredients into a smooth, rich caramel.
- Add the Final Touches: Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the milk and vanilla extract, followed by the chopped peanuts. Continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the mixture thickens substantially. This is your cookie topping, rich with flavors and textures.
- Assemble the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop, carefully top each cracker with a generous amount of the caramel-peanut mixture. The warmth of the caramel will slightly soften the crackers, infusing them with its gooey goodness.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool completely at room temperature. Once set, they can be stored in an airtight container to maintain their crispness and flavor.
Why Dandy-Do Cookies?
- Simple Ingredients, Gourmet Taste: With everyday ingredients transformed into something extraordinary, these cookies offer a gourmet taste that belies their simplicity.
- Versatile Delight: Serve them at parties, during holiday seasons, or as a special treat during family movie nights. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion.
- No-Bake Wonder: Minimal baking time makes this recipe an excellent choice for those who want to keep their kitchens cool or involve their little ones in the cooking process without worry.
Conclusion
By following this guide, you’ll whip up a batch of Dandy-Do Cookies that are not only mouthwatering but also instilled with the nostalgia of homemade treats. Each bite is a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and crunchy—ensuring that these cookies will be a hit at any event. Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious creations!
