4. Finish the Topping
- Remove the pan from the heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, or remove the pan completely from the burner, and quickly whisk in the milk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
- Fold in the toasted pecans. Stir until the nuts are evenly distributed and the topping is thick and scoopable.
- Return to low heat for 1–2 minutes if the mixture seems too runny after adding the milk.
5. Assemble the Dandy Do’s
- Using a small spoon or a cookie scoop (about 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons), drop a generous spoonful of the caramel-pecan mixture onto the center of each Ritz cracker.
- Use the back of the spoon to gently spread the topping to the edges.
6. Cool and Serve
- Allow the Pecan Dandy Do’s to cool completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until the topping has set firm and is no longer sticky.
- For faster setting, you can place the tray in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
Storage and Tips
- Storage: Store Dandy Do’s in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- Nut Swaps: If you don't have pecans, this recipe works beautifully with other nuts! Try walnuts or classic peanuts (the "Dandy-Do" term often refers to the peanut version).
- Spice It Up: For a festive, holiday twist, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg to the caramel mixture before adding the pecans.
- Salty Caramel Finish: For an extra gourmet touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel immediately after scooping it onto the cracker.
Why These Are an Old-School Classic
Pecan Dandy Do's are a quintessential example of depression-era or mid-century resourceful baking. They utilize simple, inexpensive pantry staples—a can of condensed milk, some butter, sugar, crackers, and nuts—to create a surprisingly sophisticated and incredibly satisfying treat. The magic is in the contrast: the salty, buttery crunch of the Ritz cracker against the rich, sweet, and chewy homemade caramel-pecan fudge. They're quick, they're easy, and they disappear fast!
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