Putting On The Ritz
A delicious sweet treat featuring crisp pecans and chewy diced dates, coated in rich caramel-like milk, and baked to perfection. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special snack, these Ritz cracker bites combine crunch and sweetness for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the pecans, diced dates, and Eagle Brand milk in a saucepan.
- Stir and cook until the mixture boils and thickens.
- Remove from heat and beat the mixture by hand a few strokes.
- Spread onto Ritz crackers.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 8 minutes.
- Cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the pecans lightly before adding them to the saucepan. If you don't have Eagle Brand milk, sweetened condensed milk can be a great substitute. You can also experiment with different nuts or dried fruits for variety, such as using walnuts or figs. This recipe is a great addition to your Saturday Brunch menu.
Serving Suggestions
These treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a light dessert after dinner. Serve them alongside a refreshing salad or a warm beverage. They pair beautifully with Broccoli Delight(Even George Bush Would Try This Dish!) for a well-rounded meal. For an extra touch, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place the Ritz crackers with the topping in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, just until warmed through. This will help maintain the crispiness of the crackers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Putting On The Ritz contains roughly 1059 calories, with 14g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 13g 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 make this recipe vegan?
While this recipe uses Eagle Brand milk, you can substitute it with a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative to make a vegan version. Additionally, ensure that the Ritz crackers you use are vegan, as some varieties may contain dairy.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're looking for a different flavor, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes for pecans. You can also consider using sunflower seeds for a nut-free option, especially if you're serving guests with nut allergies.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and spread it onto the Ritz crackers just before baking. This allows you to serve them warm and fresh, making them an excellent choice for parties or gatherings.
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).