A Spicy Snack Everyone Will Love

Looking for a quick and flavorful snack that’s perfect for any occasion? These Alabama Firecrackers are an irresistible combination of crispy saltine crackers coated in a bold, zesty seasoning blend. With a spicy kick from red pepper flakes and the savory flavors of ranch dressing and garlic, these crackers are ideal for parties, game days, or as an everyday snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: Requires minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spice to suit your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for snacking, party platters, or road trips.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays fresh for days, making it a convenient snack option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Ritz Crackers Instead of Saltines?

Yes! Ritz crackers provide a buttery flavor that works well with the seasoning.

What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?

You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil or melted butter for a slightly different flavor.

How Can I Make These Less Spicy?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to tone down the spice level.

Ingredients for Alabama Firecrackers

1 pound saltine crackers (about 4 sleeves)
1 cup olive oil
1 packet ranch dressing mix
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper

Kitchen Equipment

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need:

A large resealable plastic bag
Measuring spoons
Baking sheet
Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Seasoning

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the olive oil, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
Seal the bag and shake well to mix all the ingredients evenly.

2. Coat the Crackers

Open the bag and add the saltine crackers.
Seal the bag again and gently turn it over multiple times to ensure the crackers are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
Let the bag sit for about 1 hour, turning it occasionally to redistribute the seasoning.

3. Bake the Crackers

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
Arrange the seasoned crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crackers are lightly toasted and the seasoning is baked on.

4. Cool and Serve

Remove the crackers from the oven and allow them to cool completely.
Serve as a snack or appetizer and enjoy the bold flavors of Alabama Firecrackers.

Tips for Perfect Alabama Firecrackers

Use Fresh Crackers: Fresh saltines provide the best texture and crunch.
Mix Gently: Be gentle when coating the crackers to avoid breaking them.
Adjust Spice Level: Add more or less red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
Make Ahead: Store the crackers in an airtight container for up to a week for a ready-to-go snack.

Variations and Add-Ins

Cheese Lover’s Twist: Add grated Parmesan or cheddar powder to the seasoning mix.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill for a fresh twist.
Extra Crunch: Toss in pretzels or small crackers to create a mixed snack.
Sweet and Spicy: Add a touch of brown sugar for a sweet-and-spicy flavor profile.

Storing and Serving

Storage: Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the crackers may lose their crispness after thawing.

Perfect Pairings

Alabama Firecrackers are versatile and pair well with:

Dips: Serve with ranch dressing, hummus, or spicy queso.
Charcuterie Boards: Add them to a platter with cheese, meats, and fruits.
Soups: Use them as a crunchy topping for chili or tomato soup.

Spice Up Your Snack Game with Alabama Firecrackers

These Alabama Firecrackers are the ultimate snack for spice lovers. With their crispy texture and bold flavors, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a tasty treat to enjoy any time.

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