Name: Buffalo Ranch Crackers
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 bag oyster crackers (9-oz); 4 cups Cheez-Its; 1 package ranch dressing mix (1-oz); ⅓ cup oil; ¼ cup buffalo sauce

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There’s something wonderfully addictive about Buffalo Ranch Crackers. I remember the first time I made them for a game night. The mingling aromas of spicy buffalo sauce and zesty ranch dressing filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to share them with friends. As the evening unfolded, the crackers quickly disappeared, much to my delight. Each crunchy bite was a burst of flavor that had everyone reaching for more. It’s these moments, surrounded by laughter and good food, that make cooking so rewarding. Whether it’s game day, a casual gathering, or just a snack for yourself, these crackers are sure to impress!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Whisk

The Magic of This Buffalo Ranch Crackers

Irresistibly Crunchy

The texture of Buffalo Ranch Crackers is a highlight. The combination of oyster crackers and Cheez-Its creates a crunchy base that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a delightful crunch, and the flavors mingle beautifully, making them perfect for snacking.

Perfectly Seasoned

What sets these crackers apart is the flavor fusion. The ranch dressing mix adds a creamy herbiness, while the buffalo sauce brings the heat. It’s a balance that keeps you coming back for more, wanting to savor every bite.

Easy to Make

One of my favorite things about Buffalo Ranch Crackers is how simple they are to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch in no time. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!

Great for Any Occasion

These crackers are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just looking for a quick snack, they fit the bill perfectly. They’re a crowd-pleaser and are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Customizable

You can easily tweak the spice level to suit your taste. If you like it hotter, add more buffalo sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. The customizable nature of this recipe makes it fun to experiment with.

Perfect for Sharing

There’s something about a communal dish that brings people together. These crackers can be served in a big bowl, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy. It’s a great way to foster a sense of togetherness and enjoyment while eating.

What to Gather for Buffalo Ranch Crackers

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious Buffalo Ranch Crackers. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor profile and texture. The spicy kick from the buffalo sauce, combined with the creaminess of the ranch dressing mix, harmonizes beautifully with the crunch of the crackers. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

1 (9-oz) bag oyster crackers – These small, crunchy crackers form the base of the recipe, soaking up flavors while retaining their delightful crunch.
4 cups Cheez-Its – Adding a cheesy goodness, these crackers provide an irresistible flavor that complements the ranch and buffalo elements.

1 (1-oz) package ranch dressing mix – This mix infuses the dish with a creamy and herby taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
⅓ cup oil – This binds the ingredients together and helps them bake to a perfect crunch.
¼ cup buffalo sauce – The star ingredient that brings heat and a tangy kick to these crackers.

Step by Step Guide for Buffalo Ranch Crackers

Making Buffalo Ranch Crackers is not just easy but also quite enjoyable. You’ll love how simple it is to create a snack that’s bursting with flavor. Follow these steps to make your own mouthwatering batch:

Preheat your oven to 250ºF. This temperature allows the crackers to bake slowly, ensuring they become perfectly crispy without burning.

Pour the oyster crackers and Cheez-Its into a large mixing bowl. Use a big enough bowl, as you’ll need space for mixing without making a mess.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, oil, and buffalo sauce. This mixture is the magic that will coat your crackers and infuse them with flavor. Make sure it’s well-combined.
Pour the sauce mixture over the crackers in your large bowl. Use a spatula to gently toss and coat all the crackers evenly. It’s essential to ensure every cracker gets a good amount of the sauce.

Spread the coated crackers on a large baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer for even baking. Clumping them together might result in some crackers being soggy.
Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Halfway through, take them out and give them a gentle toss to ensure they bake evenly.
Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool. This cooling time helps them crisp up even more. Trust me; you’ll want to let them cool a bit before diving in!

Serve your Buffalo Ranch Crackers in a large bowl or on a platter. They make a fantastic snack for parties or even just for enjoying while binge-watching your favorite show.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for several weeks, although I doubt they’ll last that long!

Things Worth Knowing

Monitor the baking: Keep an eye on the crackers while they bake. Ovens can vary, and you don’t want them to burn.
Mix well: Ensure all the crackers are evenly coated with the sauce mixture. This makes a significant difference in flavor.

Experiment: Feel free to play around with the spices. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or some cayenne pepper can elevate the flavors.
Cooling is key: Allowing the crackers to cool completely before serving enhances their crunchiness.

Recipe Notes about Buffalo Ranch Crackers

These tips will help you get the best results when making Buffalo Ranch Crackers. They’ll keep your snacking experience delightful and enhance your cooking skills. Here are some helpful notes:

Storage: Store the leftover crackers in an airtight container. They will remain fresh for several weeks.
Freezing: While these crackers are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them. Just make sure they are in an airtight container.
Pairing: Serve these crackers with your favorite dips, such as ranch or blue cheese, to complement the flavors.

Spice it up: If you want a spicier version, add more buffalo sauce or cayenne pepper to the mix before baking.
Experiment with flavors: Try different flavored ranch mixes or sauces to create your unique twist on this classic recipe.

Accompaniments for Buffalo Ranch Crackers

When it comes to serving Buffalo Ranch Crackers, the possibilities are endless. Here are some great ways to enjoy them:

As a Snack: Enjoy these crackers as a quick snack while watching your favorite show. They’re perfect for those munchie moments!
Game Day Treat: Set them out during a game day gathering. Pair them with other finger foods for a delightful spread.
Party Appetizer: Use these crackers as an appetizer at your next party. Their bold flavors will grab attention and keep guests coming back for more.

Pairing with Dips: Serve alongside dips like ranch or blue cheese to enhance the flavor experience.
Storing Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container so they stay crispy and flavorful.
Seasonal Serving: These crackers are versatile enough for any season, making them an all-year-round favorite.

FAQ

Absolutely! While Buffalo Ranch Crackers are traditionally made with oyster crackers and Cheez-Its, feel free to experiment with your favorite crackers. Just keep in mind that different types may alter the texture and flavor slightly, so choose something that complements the buffalo sauce and ranch mix.

The spice level of Buffalo Ranch Crackers can be adjusted to your liking. The recipe as is offers a mild heat that’s not overwhelming. If you’re looking for more heat, simply add more buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix before baking, and you’ll have a spicy snack that packs a punch!

Storing leftovers of Buffalo Ranch Crackers is easy. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They will last for several weeks, but I doubt they’ll stick around that long, as they’re quite addictive! If you notice any softening, you can always re-crisp them in a low oven for a few minutes.

Yes! Buffalo Ranch Crackers can be made ahead of time, which makes them perfect for parties or gatherings. Simply prepare them, allow them to cool, and store them in an airtight container. They’ll maintain their crunch and flavor, ensuring you have a delicious snack ready when you need it!

Conclusion

In summary, Buffalo Ranch Crackers are a flavorful and easy-to-make snack that brings a burst of flavor to any occasion. With their addictive crunch and zesty seasoning, they’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying during a quiet night at home. I encourage you to try this recipe today and bring a little zest to your next gathering!

Buffalo Ranch Crackers

The ultimate crunchy snack for any occasion, Buffalo Ranch Crackers are bursting with flavor. With a perfect blend of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch, these easy-to-make crackers are sure to satisfy your cravings. Ideal for game day or casual gatherings, why not whip up a batch tonight?

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Course Appetizers

Cuisine American

Servings 8 cups

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Oven
Mixing Bowl
Whisk

Ingredients

1 bag oyster crackers 9-oz
4 cups Cheez-Its
1 package ranch dressing mix 1-oz
⅓ cup oil
¼ cup buffalo sauce

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 250ºF. This temperature allows the crackers to bake slowly, ensuring they become perfectly crispy without burning.
Pour the oyster crackers and Cheez-Its into a large mixing bowl. Use a big enough bowl, as you’ll need space for mixing without making a mess.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, oil, and buffalo sauce. This mixture is the magic that will coat your crackers and infuse them with flavor. Make sure it's well-combined.

Pour the sauce mixture over the crackers in your large bowl. Use a spatula to gently toss and coat all the crackers evenly. It’s essential to ensure every cracker gets a good amount of the sauce.
Spread the coated crackers on a large baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer for even baking. Clumping them together might result in some crackers being soggy.
Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Halfway through, take them out and give them a gentle toss to ensure they bake evenly.

Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool. This cooling time helps them crisp up even more. Trust me; you’ll want to let them cool a bit before diving in!
Serve your Buffalo Ranch Crackers in a large bowl or on a platter. They make a fantastic snack for parties or even just for enjoying while binge-watching your favorite show.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for several weeks, although I doubt they’ll last that long!

Notes

Storage: Store the leftover crackers in an airtight container. They will remain fresh for several weeks.
Freezing: While these crackers are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them. Just make sure they are in an airtight container.
Pairing: Serve these crackers with your favorite dips, such as ranch or blue cheese, to complement the flavors.

Spice it up: If you want a spicier version, add more buffalo sauce or cayenne pepper to the mix before baking.
Experiment with flavors: Try different flavored ranch mixes or sauces to create your unique twist on this classic recipe.