Certainly! To adjust the Dandy-Do Cookies recipe for Weight Watchers, I’ll provide an updated version with Weight Watchers points and a breakdown of the nutrition information.
Dandy-Do Cookies (Weight Watchers Version)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can of light sweetened condensed milk (or fat-free, if available)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (or light butter substitute)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3 tablespoons of low-fat milk
- 24 whole wheat crackers (or reduced-fat crackers, if available)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional, use sparingly)
Instructions:
- Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and arrange the crackers in a single layer.
- In a small saucepan, combine the light sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Heat over medium flame for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Lower the heat and stir in the low-fat milk, vanilla extract, and peanuts (if using), whisking until smooth. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to place a small amount of the caramel mixture atop each cracker.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information (per cookie, assuming 24 cookies total):
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugars: 9 g
- Protein: 1 g
Weight Watchers Points:
- SmartPoints (current): 4 points per cookie
- Freestyle Points: 4 points per cookie
Dandy-Do Cookies: A Delightful Treat for Every Occasion
Introduction
Welcome to a delightful treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household: Dandy-Do Cookies. These sweet, caramel-topped crackers are an irresistible blend of buttery, sugary goodness on a crispy cracker base. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies offer a simple yet indulgent snack that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is not only quick and easy to make but also includes adjustments to fit into a Weight Watchers-friendly diet. Read on to learn all about how to create these delectable treats and their nutritional information.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients
To make these scrumptious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can of light sweetened condensed milk
Light sweetened condensed milk is a lower-calorie version of regular sweetened condensed milk. It helps to reduce the overall fat and calorie content of the recipe while still providing the creamy texture and sweetness essential for the caramel topping. - 1/3 cup unsalted butter
Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe. For a lighter option, you can substitute this with a light butter substitute or margarine. - 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
Brown sugar adds a rich, molasses-like flavor to the caramel mixture, giving it depth and warmth. - 3 tablespoons low-fat milk
Low-fat milk is used to thin out the caramel mixture slightly and make it easier to spread over the crackers. - 24 whole wheat crackers
Whole wheat crackers provide a hearty, slightly nutty base for the cookies. If whole wheat is not preferred, reduced-fat crackers can be used as an alternative. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the caramel and adds a hint of sweetness. - 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Chopped peanuts can be added for a crunchy texture and additional flavor. If you are following a specific dietary plan or prefer a nut-free option, you can omit them.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Begin by preparing your workspace. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure easy removal. Arrange the whole wheat crackers in a single layer on the parchment paper. This will form the base for your caramel topping.
Step 2: Create the Caramel Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine the light sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and brown sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to heat gently, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning. Continue to cook for approximately 5 to 6 minutes, or until the butter and sugar are fully dissolved into the milk, creating a smooth caramel sauce.
Step 3: Add Additional Ingredients
Once the caramel mixture is smooth and combined, lower the heat to avoid scorching. Stir in the low-fat milk and vanilla extract. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure that all ingredients are well incorporated. If using chopped peanuts, add them at this stage and mix until evenly distributed. Continue to cook for an additional minute to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, carefully place a small amount of the caramel mixture on top of each cracker. Spread the mixture evenly, ensuring that the caramel covers the surface of each cracker without spilling over the edges. This will help in achieving a uniform texture and appearance for your cookies.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Allow the cookies to cool completely on the parchment paper. The caramel will firm up as it cools, creating a delicious, chewy topping. Once fully cooled, transfer the cookies to an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to one week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Nutritional Information
For those who are mindful of their nutritional intake, here is the detailed breakdown per cookie, assuming a total yield of 24 cookies:
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugars: 9 g
- Protein: 1 g
Weight Watchers Points
- SmartPoints (current): 4 points per cookie
- Freestyle Points: 4 points per cookie
These points values can help you stay on track with your dietary goals while still enjoying a sweet treat. Note that the points may vary slightly based on specific ingredient brands and substitutions.
Tips and Variations
- Substitutions: For a lower-calorie version, consider using fat-free sweetened condensed milk and a reduced-fat butter substitute. You can also experiment with sugar substitutes to further cut down on calories.
- Allergy-Friendly: To make these cookies allergy-friendly, you can omit the peanuts or use a nut-free butter substitute. Be sure to check all ingredient labels for potential allergens.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture for a salted caramel twist, or sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Storage: For best results, keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness and flavor. You can also freeze the cookies for up to three months if you want to make them in advance.
Conclusion
Dandy-Do Cookies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the simplicity of crackers with a rich, caramel topping. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a snack, or simply looking for a quick and satisfying dessert, these cookies are sure to be a hit. With the Weight Watchers-friendly adjustments and nutritional information provided, you can enjoy these treats while keeping your dietary goals in mind. Try this recipe today and treat yourself to a dandy-do delicious experience!