Spicy Firecracker Oyster Crackers are a bold, zesty snack ready in minutes. These crispy, seasoned crackers are perfect for game day, parties, or anytime you crave a spicy, savory bite. Made with simple pantry staples, they’re an easy, addictive treat!
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Spicy Firecracker Oyster Crackers have become a great snack with a popularity that continues to grow. While the exact origin of this recipe is unclear, its roots can be traced back to the Southern United States, particularly in the state of Alabama.
These Alabama fire crackers have become a staple in Southern cuisine and are often enjoyed during game days, parties, and other social gatherings. This easy recipe can be prepared in a matter of minutes using simple pantry ingredients, making them an ideal choice for last-minute snacking needs.
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Why We Love This Recipe
- Quick & Convenient: These spicy crackers come together in no time, making them the perfect snack when you're short on time.
- Irresistibly Addictive: The bold mix of zesty ranch and a spicy kick makes these crackers impossible to resist—once you start munching, you won’t want to stop!
- Beginner-Friendly: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is easy to follow, even for novice cooks.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: While delicious year-round, these Spicy Ranch Oyster Crackers add the perfect touch of heat to holiday gatherings, game nights, and special occasions.
Ingredients
- Oyster crackers - Store-bought classic Nabisco oyster-shaped crackers provide the perfect base for the spicy ranch seasoning.
- Ranch seasoning (Ranch Dressing Mix) - A packet of ranch seasoning adds a flavorful blend of herbs and spices that adds the signature ranch taste.
- Avocado oil - A light and neutral oil that helps coat the crackers and brings out their crunchiness.
- Red pepper flakes - Add a fiery kick to the crackers and enhances their spiciness.
- Garlic powder - Provides a savory garlic flavor that complements the ranch seasoning.
- Onion powder - Also complements the ranch seasoning
- Cajun seasoning - Adds a touch of Cajun flair and a hint of smokiness to the crackers.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Instructions
How to Make How to Make Spicy Firecrackers (Oyster Crackers Recipe)
STEP ONE: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
STEP TWO: Mix the Seasoning
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oyster crackers, ranch seasoning, avocado oil, red pepper chili flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well until all the crackers are evenly coated with the flavorful seasoning mixture.
STEP THREE: Bake the Firecrackers
Spread the seasoned crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remember to mix the crackers halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking and a perfect crunch.
STEP FOUR: Cool and Serve
Once the crackers are baked to a golden brown and crispy texture, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer the Spicy Ranch Oyster Crackers to an air-tight container or serve them immediately.
Substitutions and Variations
- Oil - If avocado oil is not available, you can use canola oil or vegetable oil as a substitute.
- Spice - Adjust the amount of red pepper chili flakes according to your desired spice level. Increase for more heat or decrease for a milder flavor.
- Crackers - Use square or mini Saltine crackers for a different shape.
How Can I Customize this Recipe?
- Seasoning - Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning mixture for a subtle smoky flavor, or experiment with other seasonings like dill weed to customize the flavor profile of your crackers.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
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- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large Mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon for mixing
How Should I Store and Reheat this Recipe?
To maintain their crunchiness, store the Spicy Firecracker Oyster Crackers in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be kept for up to two weeks.
👩🍳 Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and more meal prep hacks!
Expert Tips for Success
Use a large mixing bowl to ensure you have enough space to mix the oyster crackers with the seasonings thoroughly. A large bowl will make the process easier and prevent any ingredients from spilling over the sides.
Take your time to mix the oyster crackers with the seasonings until every cracker is evenly coated. This will ensure consistent flavor in every bite.
Spread the seasoned crackers in a single layer on one (or two) baking sheets, ensuring they have enough space. This allows for even baking and helps achieve a crispy texture.
To promote even cooking and prevent the crackers from sticking together, remember to gently mix them halfway through the baking time. This ensures that every cracker gets evenly toasted.
After baking, let the Spicy Oyster Crackers cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. This will help them retain their crunchiness.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Leftover ranch seasoning can be sprinkled over roasted vegetables or mixed into sour cream for a delicious dip.
- Red pepper flakes can be added to pasta dishes, soups, or homemade pizza.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Easy Triscuit Pizza Bites
- Air Fryer Pasta Chips
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Serve them on or alongside a charcuterie board for an easy party appetizer.
- Add them to a bowl of chili or tomato soup for an extra crunch and a touch of heat.
More holiday recipes you will love:
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these firecrackers in advance?
Are firecrackers suitable for children?
Can I use a different type of seasoning?
📖 Recipe
Spicy Firecrackers Oyster Crackers
Ingredients
- 18 oz Nabisco oyster crackers
- 1 oz packet of ranch seasoning
- 1 cup avocado oil
- 2 tablespoon red pepper chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oyster crackers, ranch seasoning, avocado oil, red pepper chili flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, and Cajun seasoning. Mix everything together well until the crackers are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Spread the seasoned crackers in a single layer on a sheet pan.
- Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remember to mix the crackers halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Remove from the oven and let the spicy ranch oyster crackers cool on the sheet pan.
- Once cooled, transfer the crackers to an airtight container for storage or a small bowl to serve immediately.
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