This Firecrackers recipe turns plain saltines into a bold, no-bake snack with just oil, ranch seasoning, and red pepper flakes. They’re quick to prep, packed with flavor, and perfect for parties or late-night cravings.
Cajun crackers? Crack crackers?
I first had these crackers at my friend Joan’s house, and she mistakenly called them Cajun Crackers. They are not. We called them Crack Crackers because you cannot stop eating them. Think I’m kidding? Ha! You will read this recipe and realize how bad these crackers are for you. Then you will make them. And then you will eat one. And then you will hide them. And you will slowly, over a couple of days, eat them all. By yourself. And then you will want more…they are that good.
This is one of the oddest recipes I’ve ever made. There’s no cooking involved, only mixing together and waiting. Once they’re ready, you can use them in so many ways: with a yummy dip, like my Pimento Cheese, or serve alongside Classic Chili. And, these crackers are delicious all by themselves.
I hope you make this recipe. I think you’ll love it!
Ingredient notes
The best thing about these Cajun crackers is how easy they are. You don’t need anything fancy, just pantry ingredients. They are inexpensive, and my teenagers always loved them. Here are a few things to know about the ingredients:
➡️➡️➡️ The full ingredient amounts and instructions are listed below on the printable recipe card. Scroll below the recipe card for frequently asked questions and tips for success.
Original Ranch dressing mix: There are several different flavors of these dressing packets now, but we prefer to stick with the original. There’s already a lot of flavor going on with these crackers so you really don’t need to add anything else.
Red pepper flakes: These are totally optional. If I make this recipe for my young grandchildren, I omit the red pepper flakes and the cayenne pepper. You can adjust this recipe depending on whom you are serving.
Avocado oil: We like avocado oil, but you can use pretty much any oil that you prefer.
How to make firecracker crackers
This recipe is so simple but so tasty. It does take a little time, though, so if you’re using the firecrackers for a party, you’ll need to plan ahead.
- Mix up the oil and seasonings.
- Squish it all around so it’s well-mixed.
- Add the crackers and turn the bag frequently.
- Remove crackers and enjoy!
If you make this recipe, please leave a comment and ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ below!
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Firecracker Crackers
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups avocado, olive, or canola oil
- 2 1-ounce packages original Ranch dressing mix
- ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 140 saltine crackers (this is approximate for 4 sleeves or one 16-ounce box)
Instructions
- Add 2 1-ounce packages original Ranch dressing mix, 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper, 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes and 1 1/2 cups avocado, olive, or canola oil to a 2-gallon zipper bag and mix well.
- Add 140 saltine crackers (this is approximate for 4 sleeves or one 16-ounce box), turning several times to coat the crackers.
- Turn bag every 15 minutes for at least 1 hour or until oil is absorbed by the crackers. For best flavor, leave the crackers in the bag overnight.
These truly are addicting and yummy! Try whole wheat saltines and add your favorite cheese to go with them! Great picture, Rebecca!
🙂