Marion'S Sittin' On A Ritz
Delightful sweet Ritz cracker treats topped with date and pecan mixture, finished with a creamy icing—perfect for parties, holidays, or a special snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy saucepan, mix together chopped dates, chopped pecans, and Eagle Brand milk over low heat and stir constantly until dates have melted.
- Remove from heat and spoon the date mixture onto each Ritz cracker.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 6 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, transfer to a cooling rack, and let cool.
- In a bowl, cream together powdered sugar, softened butter, and enough cream to make a smooth icing.
- Top each cooled Ritz cracker with a dollop of the icing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the mixture. If you want a lighter version, substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use graham crackers instead of Ritz for a different texture. Make sure to stir the date mixture continuously to prevent it from sticking to the pan, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful treats make a fantastic addition to a dessert platter or holiday gathering, pairing beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside other sweet bites like Sand Tarts(Christmas Cookies) for a festive touch. They also work well as a snack or dessert after a light meal, offering a satisfying crunch and sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. These treats are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marion'S Sittin' On A Ritz contains roughly 1242 calories, with 13g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh dates instead of chopped dates?
Yes, you can use fresh dates, but you will need to chop and possibly pit them first. Fresh dates will give a slightly different texture compared to dried chopped dates, and you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they melt properly.
What can I substitute for Eagle Brand milk?
If you don't have Eagle Brand milk on hand, you can make a homemade version by combining 1 cup of regular evaporated milk with 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar. Heat them together until the sugar dissolves, creating a sweetened condensed milk substitute.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the date mixture and icing a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the Ritz crackers just before serving to maintain their crispness and freshness, ensuring the best texture when enjoyed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).