Is there anything better than a spicy snack that leaves your taste buds dancing? Enter the Spicy Firecracker Cheez-Its—an explosion of flavor that reminds me of those summer barbecues where the food was as fiery as the sunset. With a kick that hits just right, these little squares are the snack you never knew you needed, perfect for a cozy night in or a party that needs a little spice.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) to get it ready for baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cheez-Its, canola or vegetable oil, dry Ranch seasoning mix, and red pepper flakes. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated Cheez-Its in a single layer on a large baking pan, or divide them between two smaller pans if necessary.
- Bake the Cheez-Its in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, ensuring they are crispy and the flavors are well-blended.
- Allow the Cheez-Its to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container for storage.
Ingredients
- 12.4 oz box of original Cheez-Its
- 1/2 cup of canola or vegetable oil
- 1 oz packet of dry Ranch seasoning mix
- 3 to 5 teaspoons of red pepper flakes
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3,513kcal | Carbohydrates: 332g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 220g | Saturated Fat: 126g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 6,412mg | Potassium: 135mg | Fiber: 16g | Vitamin A: 2,250IU | Calcium: 615mg | Iron: 1.5mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of oil instead of canola or vegetable oil?
- Yes, you can substitute canola or vegetable oil with other neutral oils, like sunflower or corn oil, without affecting the flavor significantly.
- How spicy are Firecracker Cheez-Its?
- The spiciness can be adjusted to your preference. Using 3 teaspoons of red pepper flakes will give a milder kick, while 5 teaspoons will make them quite spicy.
- How should I store Firecracker Cheez-Its to keep them fresh?
- Store the baked Cheez-Its in an airtight container once they have cooled completely to maintain their crispness and flavor.
- Can I make these Cheez-Its in advance?
- Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead of time. Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh for several days.
- What is the nutritional information for Firecracker Cheez-Its?
- Each serving contains approximately 222 calories, with 21g of carbohydrates, 2g of protein, and 14g of fat. Additionally, it includes 429mg of sodium and 1g of fiber.
Tips
- Adjust Spice Level: Start with 3 teaspoons of red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder version, and gradually increase to 5 teaspoons for more heat. This allows you to customize the snack to your spice preference.
- Even Coating: Ensure that the Cheez-Its are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning mix by mixing them thoroughly in a large bowl. This will enhance the flavor consistency across all pieces.
- Baking Tips: Spread the Cheez-Its evenly across a large baking pan, or use two smaller ones to avoid overcrowding. This ensures even baking and crispiness.
- Storage Advice: Once cooled, store the Firecracker Cheez-Its in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness and freshness for longer.
Equipment
- Its, you likely have most of the necessary equipment at home. However, if you need to purchase items, here are the main pieces of equipment you might consider buying, especially if you don’t already have them:
- Large Mixing Bowl – To mix all the ingredients together.
- Baking Pan – A large baking pan or two smaller ones to spread the mixture evenly for baking.
- Airtight Container – For storing the finished product to keep it fresh.
