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Texas Firecrackers ingredients in a bowl, close-up view

The Best Texas Firecrackers: A Zesty Southern Snack Recipe

Texas Firecrackers made with mini saltine crackers are a spicy, crunchy Southern snack that’s perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you’re craving bold flavor! These addictive crackers are tossed in a zesty oil-based seasoning and can be enjoyed straight from the bag or lightly baked for extra crispiness. Easy to make and loaded with flavor, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 5–6 cups

Ingredients

  • ½ box mini saltine crackers (about 56 cups)

  • ⅜ cup extra virgin olive oil

  • 1 ½ tablespoons buttermilk ranch powder

  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

  • ⅛ teaspoon citric acid (optional)

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, ranch powder, nutritional yeast, red pepper flakes, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and citric acid until well combined.

  • Add the mini saltine crackers to a gallon-sized zip-top bag.

  • Pour the seasoned oil mixture over the crackers. Seal the bag and gently shake or rotate to coat the crackers evenly without breaking them.

  • Let the crackers marinate for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better for maximum flavor.

  • Optional Baking Step:

    • Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    • Spread the seasoned crackers in an even layer on the sheet.

    • Bake for 20–30 minutes, tossing every 5–10 minutes, until lightly golden and dry.

 

  • Let the firecrackers cool completely to room temperature before storing.

Notes

  • Store crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

  • For less heat, reduce the red pepper flakes to 1–2 teaspoons.

 

  • These crackers also make a fun edible gift—pack them in mason jars with a ribbon!

  • Author: Amanda
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American, Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 542
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 897mg
  • Fat: 33g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 27g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Texas firecrackers, spicy crackers, seasoned saltines, party snack, ranch crackers, fire crackers recipe, easy Southern snack