Recipe

Pecan Dandy Do’s

Written by Bader Daifi

 

🥜 Pecan Dandy Do’s

Sweet, Salty, No-Bake Caramel Pecan Treats

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s a little different from your everyday cookie,
Pecan Dandy Do’s are the perfect choice. These bite-sized treats feature a buttery
Ritz cracker base topped with rich homemade caramel and crunchy pecans.

With no rolling, chilling, or baking required, this recipe comes together quickly
on the stovetop. The result is a dessert that balances sweet, salty, and nutty flavors
in every bite—ideal for holidays, fall gatherings, or last-minute sweet cravings.

Why You’ll Love Pecan Dandy Do’s

  • No baking required
  • Perfect balance of sweet and salty
  • Rich caramel flavor with crunchy pecans
  • Quick and easy stovetop method
  • Great for parties, holidays, and gift trays

Ingredients

  • 2–3 sleeves Ritz crackers
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • ⅓ cup butter
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped

Instructions & Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Crackers

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Arrange Ritz crackers in a single layer.
  3. Set aside while preparing the topping.

2. Make the Caramel Base

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar.
  2. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Mixture should thicken and become glossy.

3. Add Flavor and Pecans

  1. Reduce heat to low.
  2. Whisk in milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Fold in chopped pecans.
  4. Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
  5. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble

  1. Spoon a small amount of pecan caramel onto each cracker.
  2. Use a lightly greased spoon or cookie scoop for easy portioning.

5. Cool and Set

  1. Allow treats to cool completely.
  2. Once set, transfer to an airtight container.

History & Inspiration

Pecan-based desserts have long been a staple in American cooking, especially in the South,
where pecans are abundant. Caramel-and-cracker treats became popular as quick, economical
desserts that required no oven—perfect for busy home cooks.

Pecan Dandy Do’s are inspired by this tradition, blending classic caramel techniques
with modern convenience and nostalgic flavors.

Benefits of This Dessert

  • No-bake recipe saves time and energy
  • Pecans provide healthy fats and nutrients
  • Easy to scale up for crowds
  • Perfect make-ahead dessert
  • Uses simple, affordable ingredients

Tips, Variations & Methods

  • Toast pecans lightly for deeper flavor
  • Sprinkle sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast
  • Drizzle with melted chocolate after cooling
  • Swap Ritz crackers for Club crackers or saltines
  • Add coconut or chopped almonds for variation

Who Loves Pecan Dandy Do’s?

These treats are loved by caramel fans, nut lovers, and anyone who enjoys
quick, homemade desserts. They’re especially popular on holiday cookie trays
and at family gatherings.

Storage

  • Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Refrigerate for up to 1 week for a firmer texture

Conclusion

Pecan Dandy Do’s prove that the simplest desserts can be the most unforgettable.
With their buttery cracker base and rich pecan caramel topping, these no-bake
treats are easy to make and impossible to resist.

Whether you’re preparing a holiday platter, a party snack, or a quick sweet treat,
Pecan Dandy Do’s are guaranteed to disappear fast and earn rave reviews.