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

Description

Dandy-Do Cookies are a delightful, no-bake treat made with Ritz crackers topped with a rich, peanut-studded caramel layer. Combining sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and peanuts, these easy cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are great to serve at parties or as a fun snack.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

1 (14 oz) can 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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Cookie Sheet: Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and arrange Ritz crackers in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
Cook the Caramel Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat for 7-8 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning or sticking.
Add the Flavorings and Peanuts: Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the milk, vanilla extract, and chopped peanuts until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Continue to cook for 2 additional minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
Top the Crackers: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, carefully top each cracker with a generous scoop of the caramel-peanut mixture.
Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely at room temperature. Once fully cooled, transfer them to an airtight container for storage.

Notes

Use roasted, unsalted peanuts for better flavor and less added salt.
Make sure to stir the caramel mixture continuously to avoid burning.
If you prefer extra crunch, you can toast the peanuts briefly before adding them.
Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing, to prevent sticking.
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 130
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 105mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 8mg