Can I use a different type of cracker for the base?

Absolutely! Graham crackers, saltines, or even buttery shortbread cookies work wonderfully as alternatives. Each will bring a slightly different flavor profile to the finished cookie, but the sweet-salty balance will still shine through.

My caramel mixture seems too thick to spread easily. What should I do?

If your mixture becomes too thick to work with, simply return it to low heat and add a tablespoon of milk, stirring until it reaches a spreadable consistency. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the caramel to become grainy.

How do I know when the caramel is cooked perfectly?

The caramel is ready when it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon and leaves a clear path when you run your finger through it (be careful, it's hot!). It should be smooth and pourable but not runny, similar to the consistency of warm honey.

Dandy-Do Cookies Recipe

This quick and irresistible Dandy-Do Cookies recipe transforms simple Ritz crackers into delectable caramel-topped treats that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The sweet caramel mixture paired with crunchy peanuts creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors in each bite. Best of all, these cookies come together in just minutes with minimal ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Baking Required: These cookies don’t need any oven time – just cook the caramel mixture on the stovetop and you’re good to go.
Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand, making this perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
Kid-Friendly: Both making and eating these cookies is fun for the whole family – kids especially love helping to top the crackers.
Perfect Balance: The salty crackers perfectly complement the sweet caramel topping, creating that irresistible sweet-salty combination everyone loves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sweetened Condensed Milk: The base of our caramel mixture that provides that rich, creamy sweetness. Don’t substitute with evaporated milk – they’re completely different!
Butter: Adds richness to the caramel and helps create that smooth, velvety texture. I recommend unsalted so you can control the salt balance.
Brown Sugar: Deepens the caramel flavor with its molasses notes. Dark brown sugar works even better if you want a more intense flavor.
Milk: Thins the mixture slightly while maintaining creaminess. Whole milk produces the best results.
Vanilla: Enhances all the other flavors and adds that warm, aromatic note that makes these cookies extra special.
Peanuts: Provides wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramel. Roughly chopping them ensures good texture without overwhelming the cookies.
Ritz Crackers: The perfect base with their buttery flavor and light, flaky texture. Their slight saltiness creates that magical sweet-salty balance.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

These cookies are wonderfully versatile! Here are some delicious ways to customize them:

Nut Variations: Swap peanuts for pecans, walnuts, almonds, or a mix of your favorites – each brings a different flavor profile.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once set, drizzle with melted dark, milk, or white chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tiny bit of cayenne to the caramel mixture for a warming kick.
Coconut Twist: Mix in 1/2 cup of toasted coconut flakes with the peanuts for tropical flavor.
Holiday Special: Add crushed peppermint pieces during the winter holidays or colored sprinkles for birthdays.

How to Make Dandy-Do Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and arrange your Ritz crackers in a single layer. Make sure they’re not touching each other to prevent sticking later.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Mixture

In a small saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat for 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. The mixture will gradually thicken and turn a beautiful caramel color.

Step 3: Add Final Ingredients

Reduce heat to low and whisk in the milk, vanilla, and chopped peanuts until everything is well incorporated and smooth. Continue cooking for about 2 more minutes until the mixture reaches a thick, spoonable consistency.

Step 4: Top the Crackers

Remove the caramel mixture from heat and quickly scoop a dollop onto each cracker using a cookie scoop or spoon. Work relatively quickly as the mixture will start to set as it cools.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Allow the cookies to cool completely at room temperature. The caramel will set and create a chewy, delicious topping. Once cooled, store in an airtight container.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Watch the Caramel: Never walk away from the caramel mixture while it’s cooking – it can go from perfect to burnt very quickly.
Preparation is Key: Have everything measured and ready before you start cooking, including the crackers laid out on the baking sheet.
Cookie Scoop: A small cookie scoop creates uniform cookies and makes the process much cleaner and faster.
Cooling Completely: Be patient and let the cookies cool completely before storing them, otherwise they’ll stick together.
Parchment Paper: Don’t skip the parchment paper! It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

How to Serve

These versatile cookies can be served in multiple ways:

As a Dessert:

Serve on a pretty platter for after-dinner treats or afternoon tea. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.

Gift Packaging:

Stack them in decorative tins or boxes lined with parchment paper for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress.

Ice Cream Topping:

Crumble these cookies over vanilla ice cream for an extraordinary sundae – the combination of warm caramel notes with cold ice cream is divine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container at room temperature, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing

These cookies freeze surprisingly well! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the caramel mixture a day ahead and reheat it gently before assembling the cookies. Just add a splash of milk while reheating if it’s too thick.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker for the base?

Absolutely! Graham crackers, saltines, or even buttery shortbread cookies work wonderfully as alternatives. Each will bring a slightly different flavor profile to the finished cookie, but the sweet-salty balance will still shine through.
My caramel mixture seems too thick to spread easily. What should I do?

If your mixture becomes too thick to work with, simply return it to low heat and add a tablespoon of milk, stirring until it reaches a spreadable consistency. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the caramel to become grainy.
How do I know when the caramel is cooked perfectly?

The caramel is ready when it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon and leaves a clear path when you run your finger through it (be careful, it’s hot!). It should be smooth and pourable but not runny, similar to the consistency of warm honey.

Final Thoughts

These Dandy-Do Cookies are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes create the most memorable treats. With their perfect balance of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy, they’re bound to become a regular in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just because it’s Tuesday, these no-fuss cookies deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Give them a try – your taste buds will thank you!