Indulge in Homemade Dandy-Do Cookies: A Decadent Delight
Step into the world of homemade treats with our irresistible Dandy-Do Cookies, a delightful combination of sweet caramel, crunchy peanuts, and buttery Ritz crackers. These homemade cookies offer a unique and satisfying flavor experience that’s sure to leave you craving more. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as we guide you through the process of creating these delectable treats from scratch!
Ingredients:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (14 ounces)
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup
- Milk: 2 tablespoons
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Peanuts: 1 cup, chopped
- Ritz Crackers: 1 sleeve
Instructions:
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Adjust Consistency: Add the milk to the caramel mixture to achieve the desired consistency. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the caramel sauce from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Assemble the Cookies: Arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon a dollop of caramel sauce onto each cracker, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle with Peanuts: Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the caramel-covered crackers, pressing them gently into the sauce to adhere.
- Chill and Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes, or until the caramel sauce has set and the cookies are firm to the touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once set, remove the Dandy-Do Cookies from the refrigerator and serve them as a delicious treat for any occasion. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the chilled cookies before serving.
- Nut Variations: Feel free to use your favorite nuts in place of peanuts. Almonds, pecans, or cashews would all work well in this recipe.
- Cracker Alternatives: If you don’t have Ritz crackers on hand, you can use any buttery, flaky crackers as a substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making it from scratch? A: Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce if you’re short on time. Simply heat it gently in a saucepan before spooning it onto the crackers.
Q: Are Dandy-Do Cookies suitable for a keto diet? A: Unfortunately, this recipe is not suitable for a strict keto diet due to the use of sweetened condensed milk and brown sugar. However, you can make a keto-friendly version by using a sugar-free caramel sauce and low-carb crackers.
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the caramel sauce and assemble the cookies ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve, then allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Q: Can I omit the nuts for a nut-free version? A: Absolutely! If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer not to use nuts, you can omit them from the recipe without compromising the overall flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly version of Dandy-Do Cookies, use a sugar-free caramel sauce made with keto-friendly sweeteners such as erythritol or stevia. Substitute almond flour crackers for the Ritz crackers to reduce the carb content. Additionally, you can use chopped almonds or macadamia nuts instead of peanuts for a lower-carb option.
In conclusion, Homemade Dandy-Do Cookies are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With their sweet caramel sauce, crunchy peanuts, and buttery crackers, they’re the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed as a snack or served as a dessert at your next gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and indulge in the irresistible goodness of Dandy-Do Cookies today
