Description
Smoky Firecracker Cheez-Its are a crunchy, flavorful snack combining smoked cheddar Cheez-It crackers with zesty ranch seasoning and spicy red pepper flakes. Perfect for parties or a spicy snack craving, these baked crackers deliver a smoky, cheesy kick with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Snack Ingredients
- 1 (12.4 oz) box smoked cheddar Cheez-Its
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 1 (1 oz) package ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tbsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for spice level)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and allow even baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the smoked cheddar Cheez-Its, canola oil, ranch seasoning mix, and red pepper flakes. Use a rubber spatula to mix well, ensuring all crackers are evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
- Bake the Crackers: Transfer the coated crackers onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading them into an even layer for uniform baking. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even crisping.
- Cool: Remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Cooling helps them crisp up further before serving or storing.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Store cooled crackers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Canola oil is recommended for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, but other oils such as vegetable or light olive oil can be substituted if desired.
- This snack is best enjoyed fresh but can keep up to one week stored properly.
- Use smoked cheddar Cheez-Its for the authentic smoky flavor; regular cheddar Cheez-Its can be used if smoked are unavailable but will have a different taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 of recipe (~30g)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
