Prep Your Station: Begin by lining a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Arrange your Ritz crackers on it in a single layer, setting the stage for the caramel magic to come.
Caramel Creation: In a small saucepan, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Set this over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent any burning and encourage a smooth blend.
Final Touches: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add in the milk, vanilla extract, and peanuts. Stir this concoction until it's beautifully smooth, letting it cook for another minute before removing it from the heat.
Assemble the Cookies: With a cookie scoop or a spoon, dollop each cracker with a generous portion of the caramel-peanut mixture. This is where your cookies really start to take shape.
Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool completely. This not only helps them set but also makes the caramel firm up to the perfect chewy texture.
Storage: Once cooled, store your Dandy-Do Cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.
There you have it, a straightforward, no-bake recipe that satisfies your sweet tooth without the hassle of preheating, baking, and cooling. Dandy-Do Cookies are the perfect treat for impromptu guests, a quick dessert, or when you need a little pick-me-up. Enjoy the delightful interplay of salty crackers, sweet caramel, and the crunch of peanuts in every bite.
