Firecracker Ranch Cheez-Its Recipe
Introduction
Firecracker Ranch Cheez-Its are a spicy, flavorful twist on the classic snack. Infused with ranch seasoning and a kick of red pepper flakes, they make a perfect party treat or for snacking anytime you crave something bold and crunchy.
Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) box Cheez-Its
- 1 (1 oz) package ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius).
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Step 3: Slowly add the vegetable oil to the dry mix, stirring constantly to create a smooth, even coating mixture.
- Step 4: Add the Cheez-Its to the bowl and gently toss them until they are thoroughly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Step 5: Spread the coated Cheez-Its in a single layer on a large baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced for uniform baking.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning.
- Step 7: Remove the baking sheet and let the Cheez-Its cool completely on the sheet.
- Step 8: Once cooled, transfer the Firecracker Ranch Cheez-Its to an airtight container for storage.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil for a slightly different flavor.
- Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.
Storage
Store the Firecracker Ranch Cheez-Its in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them crisp, avoid refrigeration. If they lose crunch, reheat in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cracker instead of Cheez-Its?
Yes, you can use other sturdy crackers like goldfish or Ritz, but the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe less spicy?
Absolutely. Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to achieve a milder flavor.
PrintFirecracker Ranch Cheez-Its Recipe
Firecracker Ranch Cheez-Its are a spicy, tangy twist on the classic cheesy snack. Coated with a zesty ranch seasoning blend and fiery red pepper flakes, then baked to crispy perfection, these snacks are perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a flavorful bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cheez-Its and Seasoning Mix
- 1 (10 oz) box Cheez-Its
- 1 (1 oz) package ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius) to prepare for the baking process.
- Mix Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes to create the flavorful coating mixture.
- Add Oil: Slowly add the vegetable oil to the dry seasoning mix, stirring constantly until you form a smooth and even coating mixture.
- Coat Cheez-Its: Pour the Cheez-Its into the mixing bowl and gently toss them until all the crackers are thoroughly and evenly coated with the spicy ranch mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated Cheez-Its in a single layer on a large baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly distributed for uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent the crackers from burning and to ensure even cooking.
- Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Cheez-Its cool completely right on the sheet; this helps them crisp up further.
- Store: Once cooled, transfer the Firecracker Ranch Cheez-Its to an airtight container to keep them fresh until ready to serve.
Notes
- Make sure to stir the crackers halfway through baking to avoid burning and promote even flavor distribution.
- Allow the Cheez-Its to cool completely to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- You can experiment with other seasoning blends to customize the flavors further.
Keywords: Firecracker Ranch Cheez-Its, spicy snack, baked Cheez-Its, ranch coated crackers, party snack recipe
