Ritz Cracker Cookies

By Tyla | Last modified on Feb 10, 2026

Featured in: Desserts

Ritz Cracker Cookies are a nostalgic treat that pairs the salty crunch of classic Ritz crackers with a luscious, creamy topping. These bite-sized delights offer the perfect marriage of textures and flavors, from the nutty pecans and sweet dates to the smooth frosting, making them an irresistible snack for any occasion.

This easy-to-make dessert requires minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers impressive results that will wow your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth at home. Whether served at holiday parties, casual get-togethers, or afternoon tea, Ritz Cracker Cookies offer a charming mix of simplicity and decadence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines salty and sweet flavors with crunchy and creamy textures for a delightful bite.
Quick to prepare and requires no complicated baking techniques or processes.
Highly customizable with different nuts, dried fruits, or frosting variations to suit your tastes.
Perfect for entertaining, gifting, or enjoying as an indulgent homemade snack.

Ingredients

Finely chopped pecans: Adds a rich, buttery crunch that complements the sweet and creamy elements perfectly.
Dried, chopped dates: Provides natural sweetness and a chewy texture for depth in every bite.
Sweetened condensed milk: Acts as a thick, sweet binder that holds the nut and fruit mixture together.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
Cream cheese, softened: Delivers a smooth and tangy base for the frosting topping.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the frosting without overpowering other flavors.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting, creating a silky finish.
Savory crackers: The signature Ritz crackers provide a crispy, buttery base for the toppings.

Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare crackers: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the Ritz crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet. This ensures even heating and prevents the crackers from becoming soggy during the next step.
Cook pecan and date mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the finely chopped pecans, chopped dates, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes, to blend flavors and create a sticky, spreadable topping.
Top crackers with pecan-date mixture: Evenly spread a spoonful of the warm pecan-date mixture over each cracker. The warmth helps the topping adhere properly and enhances the taste. Allow them to cool slightly so the mixture firms up without melting the frosting.
Prepare cream cheese frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and gradually mix in powdered sugar until the frosting is thick and spreadable, ensuring a consistent sweetness and texture.
Frost each cookie and serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting over each cracker topped with the pecan-date mixture. This final layer adds a luscious, tangy finish balancing the sweetness and crunch. Serve immediately or chill briefly for firmer cookies.

You Must Know

Ensure the pecan-date mixture is warm but not hot when spreading over crackers to prevent sogginess.
Use softened cream cheese and butter for a smooth frosting without lumps.
You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds depending on preference.
These cookies are best consumed within two days for optimal freshness and texture.

Storage Tips

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting firm and the crackers crisp. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze un-frosted crackers and frost just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee for afternoon snacks. They also make elegant finger foods at parties and can be arranged on a festive platter with fresh fruit for a stunning dessert display.

Professional Tips

Use parchment paper on your baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Chop nuts uniformly for consistent texture and even cooking in the pecan-date mixture.
For extra flavor depth, toast the pecans lightly before chopping.
If preferred, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pecan-date mixture for holiday variation.

FAQs

Can I use other types of crackers?: Yes, buttery or slightly salty crackers work best as a base, but avoid very sweet or thick crackers to maintain balance.
How long can I store these cookies?: Store in the refrigerator up to 3 days. For best texture, consume fresh or freeze un-frosted crackers for longer storage.
Can I make these cookies nut-free?: You can omit the pecans and increase the dates or add seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?: Substitute sweetened condensed coconut milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Use vegan butter to keep the frosting creamy.
Can I prepare the pecan-date mixture in advance?: Yes, prepare ahead and refrigerate. Warm slightly before spreading to achieve the right consistency.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese?: Leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power, being careful not to melt it.