Easy Homemade Dandy-Do Cookies Recipe

Oh boy, are you ready for a trip down memory lane? These Easy Homemade Dandy-Do Cookies are a blast from the past, and let me tell you, they’re just as delicious as I remember!

Imagine a buttery Ritz cracker topped with a gooey, homemade caramel sauce that’s studded with crunchy peanuts. It’s the perfect combination of salty, sweet, and crunchy, and it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. These little treats are so easy to make, you’ll want to keep them on hand for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nostalgia in Every Bite: These cookies taste like childhood! They’re the perfect way to relive happy memories or introduce a new generation to a classic treat.
• Simplicity at its Finest: With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, these cookies are a breeze to make.
• Perfect for Sharing: They’re great for potlucks, bake sales, or just a cozy night in with friends and family.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the peanuts for other nuts or add a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch of flavor.

Ingredients in Easy Homemade Dandy-Do Cookies

These cookies are proof that sometimes the simplest things in life are the best. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the base of our luscious caramel sauce. It adds sweetness and creaminess that’s simply irresistible.
• Butter: Because everything is better with butter! It adds richness and helps create that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of molasses flavor and helps the caramel thicken beautifully.
• Milk: Just a splash to thin out the caramel sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Vanilla: A touch of vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors and adds a warm, comforting note.
• Peanuts: We’re using roughly chopped peanuts for a satisfying crunch, but feel free to use your favorite kind of nut.
• Ritz Crackers: The classic, buttery cracker provides the perfect base for our caramel topping.

How to Make Easy Homemade Dandy-Do Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Crackers

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange those Ritz crackers in a single layer. They’re about to get a serious upgrade!

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Cook this mixture over medium heat for 7-8 minutes, stirring often, until it starts to thicken.

Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches

Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the milk, vanilla, and those crunchy peanuts. Cook for another 2 minutes, or until the mixture is nice and thick. Then, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

Now for the fun part! Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to top each cracker with a generous dollop of that warm caramel mixture. Spread it out a bit to cover the cracker completely.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy!

Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows the caramel to set and become wonderfully gooey. Once they’re cool, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Stir, Stir, Stir: Be sure to stir the caramel sauce frequently to prevent it from burning.
• Cooling Time: Resist the urge to eat these cookies right away! Letting them cool completely is crucial for that perfect texture.
• Storage: Store the cookies in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together.

How to Serve

These cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas to make them extra special:

• A La Mode: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Coffee Break: They’re the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea.
• Party Time: Arrange them on a platter for a simple yet impressive dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cracker?

While Ritz crackers are classic, you can experiment with other buttery crackers like graham crackers or even shortbread cookies.

2. Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the caramel sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before assembling the cookies.

3. How can I make these cookies vegan?

You can use vegan butter and condensed milk to make these cookies vegan-friendly.

4. Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate.

There you have it! A simple, nostalgic treat that’s sure to bring back fond memories. Enjoy your Easy Homemade Dandy-Do Cookies, and happy baking!

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