Walnuts On Ritz
A light and crunchy walnut and Ritz cracker treat topped with Cool Whip, perfect for parties or as a sweet snack with a delightful nutty flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, vanilla, and baking powder to the egg whites, mixing well.
- Crush the Ritz crackers into small pieces and fold them into the egg white mixture.
- Fold in the walnuts as well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch dish and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 minutes.
- While hot, spread a thin layer of Cool Whip on top.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Spread a large amount of Cool Whip over the cooled mixture.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of walnuts on top for garnish.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them to stiff peaks. If you're looking for a nut alternative, try using chopped pecans instead of walnuts for a different flavor. Additionally, if you want a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by a quarter without affecting the overall structure. This dessert pairs beautifully with Old-Fashion Pecan Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful treat chilled for a refreshing dessert experience. It works well as a standalone dish, but you can also pair it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a unique twist, try drizzling it with chocolate sauce or caramel before serving. This is a great option for gatherings or potlucks, just as you would with Surprised Carrot Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat it, briefly warm individual portions in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat, as the Cool Whip can melt.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnuts On Ritz contains roughly 326 calories, with 11g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dessert a day in advance. Bake it, allow it to cool completely, and then refrigerate it. Just be sure to add the Cool Whip topping right before serving to keep it fresh and appealing.
What can I use if I don't have Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers on hand, you can substitute with other buttery crackers like Town House or even crushed graham crackers for a different texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly, so choose a substitute that complements the walnuts.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use gluten-free crackers like Rice Thins or a homemade gluten-free cracker recipe. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the baking powder and vanilla, are certified gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
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).