Firecracker Ranch Cheez Its Recipe
Introduction
Firecracker Ranch Cheez Its are a spicy, flavorful twist on the classic snack. Coated with ranch seasoning and a kick of red pepper flakes, these baked bites make a perfect party appetizer or a bold snack anytime you crave a little heat.
Ingredients
- 12 oz Cheez Its (Original, 1 box)
- 1/4 cup avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning (1 packet)
- 1-3 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice tolerance)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, ranch seasoning, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Step 3: Place the Cheez Its in a large plastic bag and pour the oil mixture over them. Seal the bag and toss to fully coat the crackers in the seasoning mixture. Spread the coated Cheez Its evenly onto one or two large baking sheets.
- Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 14-16 minutes, or until the crackers turn a deep golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, reduce the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon or omit entirely.
- Try using smoked paprika or chili powder in place of red pepper flakes for a different smoky spice.
- Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free cracker instead of Cheez Its.
Storage
Store cooled 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, briefly toast them in the oven before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without red pepper flakes?
Yes, simply omit or reduce the red pepper flakes to suit your taste. The ranch seasoning alone still provides plenty of flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have avocado oil?
Olive oil is an excellent substitute and works well to carry the seasoning flavors on the crackers.
PrintFirecracker Ranch Cheez Its Recipe
Firecracker Ranch Cheez Its are a spicy, flavorful snack combining crispy original Cheez Its with a zesty ranch seasoning blend and a kick of red pepper flakes. These baked crackers are perfect for an addictive, savory treat with a hint of heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cheez Its Mix
- 12 oz Cheez Its (Original, 1 box)
- 1/4 cup avocado oil (or olive oil)
Seasoning
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning (1 packet)
- 1–3 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to spice tolerance)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare it for baking the crackers.
- Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the avocado oil, ranch seasoning, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and onion powder until you get a smooth, uniform mixture.
- Coat the Cheez Its: Place the Cheez Its inside a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the oil and seasoning mixture over the crackers, seal the bag, then gently toss and turn the bag to evenly coat every cracker with the spicy ranch blend.
- Arrange for baking: Spread the coated Cheez Its on one or two large baking sheets in a single layer to ensure even baking and crispiness.
- Bake until golden: Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes, watching closely until they turn deeply golden brown and become extra crunchy.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Avocado oil is preferred for its high smoke point, but olive oil works fine as well.
- Keep an eye on the crackers during baking to avoid burning due to varying oven temperatures.
- Allow the Cheez Its to cool completely after baking for optimum crunchiness.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Keywords: Firecracker Ranch Cheez Its, spicy snack, baked Cheez Its, ranch seasoning crackers, homemade snack, spicy crackers
