Description
These Spicy Oyster Crackers, also known as Ranch Firecracker Crackers, are a flavorful, crunchy snack seasoned with a blend of ranch dressing mix, red pepper flakes, and aromatic spices. Perfectly toasted in the oven to crisp them up, these crackers are spicy, savory, and addictive, ideal for game days, parties, or any snack craving.
Ingredients
Scale
Seasoning Mix
- 1.5 cups canola oil
- 2.5 tablespoons red pepper flakes
- 2 ounces ranch dressing mix (approx. 2 packets)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Base
- 1 package oyster crackers (16 ounces)
Instructions
- Combine Seasonings: Place canola oil, red pepper flakes, ranch dressing mix, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper into a large mixing bowl or a 2-gallon Ziploc bag. Stir or shake to thoroughly combine all the ingredients.
- Coat Crackers: Add the oyster crackers to the seasoned oil mixture. Toss gently to coat all crackers evenly without breaking them. If using a bag, flip it gently several times to ensure even coating.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl or seal the bag and let the crackers rest for 1 hour. Toss or flip the crackers every hour or so over an 8-hour period to allow them to absorb the flavors fully. For best results, they can also be marinated overnight.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Bake Crackers: Spread the marinated crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, watching carefully to avoid over-browning. The crackers should be lightly toasted to reduce greasiness.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely before serving to allow them to crisp up further.
- Storage: Store cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch for up to one week.
Notes
- Use a large Ziploc bag for easier mixing and coating of crackers.
- Do not let crackers brown too much during baking to prevent bitterness and greasy texture.
- Marinating for longer—up to overnight—intensifies the flavor.
- Canola oil is recommended for its neutral flavor and suitable frying temperature.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for preferred spice level.
- Perfect snack to prepare ahead of time for parties and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Spicy Oyster Crackers, Ranch Firecracker Crackers, Spicy Snack, Crispy Snack, Party Snack, Ranch Seasoned Crackers, Homemade Oyster Crackers
