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Home » Recipes » Appetizers and Beverages

Spicy Alabama Fire Crackers Party Appetizer

Published: Jul 22, 2020 · Modified: Jan 3, 2023 by Marisa Franca · 19 Comments

Jump to Recipe
Ranch fire crackers are not your average snack. The seasoning and spices transforms the saltines into something delicious and addictive. Serve these with soups or stew or by themselves at a party, game day celebration, or just for you and your family for snacking when you get the hangries. #ranchcrackers, #firecrackers, #partycrackers, #Alabamafirecrackers.Ranch fire crackers are not your average snack. The seasoning and spices transforms the saltines into something delicious and addictive. Serve these with soups or stew or by themselves at a party, game day celebration, or just for you and your family for snacking when you get the hangries. #ranchcrackers, #firecrackers, #partycrackers, #Alabamafirecrackers.

Alabama Fire Crackers are buttery rich crispy snacks that practically melt in your mouth. They're addictively delicious with just the right amount of peppery spice to tease your mouth and tongue. The saltine cracker appetizer is perfect for a party snack, game day get-together, or road trip to keep the hangries away. The Ranch seasoning makes them so good you'll want to keep some on hand for when you get those munchy cravings.

Fire Crackers in a white bowl with a red striped tea towel underneath bowl.

Crackers long history

Saltines have been around for a long time. They're a late 19th century creation. The inspiration came from the non-perishable wheat crackers known as hardtack, or ship's biscuits.

In fact, today it's almost like buying toilet paper only they're easier to find.

There's little excitement in these plain salty, flaky squares. You could say we take them a bit for granted. You know what I mean, we only dig them out of the pantry when:

  • we need something alongside a bowl of chili or chicken noodle soup .
  • our tummy is upset and we need a filler.
  • there is nothing else to munch on and we're desperate.

Saltines rise to fame

Enterprising home cooks realized that this pantry staple could do so much more. Not only could they top casseroles and main dishes for that crunch, they could also include them as fillers in ground meat to extend the protein.

But that wasn't all. This rigid, dry cracker could also hold its crumb structure when soaked in fat, ice water, hot sauce, and many other ingredients.

That's saying a lot for the lonely cracker.

This is how we came about Alabama Fire Crackers. But you may know them by another name. You'll find these crackers called...

  • Ranch Crackers
  • Comeback Crackers
  • Party Crackers
  • Fire Crackers

I'm sure there are many more names for them. My dear Mother-In-Law gave me a recipe for Ranch Oyster Crackers that we make every Christmas. They're spiced up but nothing like the fire crackers.

Ingredients for ranch crackers

Shopping list

  • Saltine crackers -- a one pound box. Find the crackers that are in individual sleeves. You certainly don't want to try to break apart a large square.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil -- although you need 2 cups the olive oil gives the Alabama Fire Crackers a buttery taste and no greasy feel or taste to them.
  • Garlic powder -- it's all about the seasoning.
  • Onion powder -- just enough to boost the taste.
  • Black pepper -- that adds to the spice
  • Dressing Mix -- love that taste with just the right amount of saltiness and flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes -- here comes the fire but really it's not too much. The grandsons LOVED it including the five-year-old.

I would venture to say that you have most of these ingredients in your pantry right now. Believe me, this makes a lot and they store for weeks.

BUT!! I challenge you to keep them that long.

Step by Step Collage Preparation for party crackers.
1. Mix seasonings and spices with the olive oil. 2. Unwrap the crackers and put them into two zip lock bags. 3. Pour the seasoned olive oil into one Saltine cracker filled plastic bag. 4. Save the other one-half of the olive oil. 5. Pour the mixture into the other ziplock bag with the crackers. 6. Gently turn the sacks over and over to coat the crackers. 7. Let sit overnight and in the morning open bag. 8. Lay out the saltines on a baking rack within a baking sheet. 9. Bake at 250 F.

Alabama Fire Cracker instructions

This recipe doesn't need any special equipment. All you need is:

  • Two ziplock bags
  • A mixing bowl
  • A baking tray with a rack inside (two is best if you have them)
  • Measuring cup and spoons

Step by step

  1. Unwrap two sleeves of crackers and place them in one ziplock bag. Unwrap the other two sleeves and place them in the other ziplock bag.
  2. Measure out the 2 cups of olive oil and then add all of the seasonings and spices to it. Whisk the ingredients together so that they are well mixed.
  3. Pour half of the oil mixture into one bag and seal the bag. Do the same with the other bag and seal.
  4. Turn the bags over several times to coat the crackers with the spice mixture. The more you can do this the better -- you want it all coated.
  5. Let the bag sit overnight.
  6. Following day heat oven to 250℉.
  7. Lay out ranch crackers on rack set into baking sheet.
  8. Bake for about 15-20 minutes.

Chef tips

  • If you don't have a rack that fits within your baking sheet, you can just place it directly on your baking sheet. We like to use the rack because the air can circulate all around the cracker.
  • A large measuring cup with a spout is handy for pouring. Measure the two cups of oil in the cup and add the seasonings. One item to clean versus a measuring cup and a mixing bowl.
  • Store the Alabama Fire Crackers in a zip lock bag. The saltines will stay crispy and tasty.
Saltine crackers spiced with red pepper flakes and ranch seasoning.

Quattro Chiacchiere (a chat)

The Christmas season wouldn't be the same without our Ranch oyster crackers and Party Mix. We now have another addition -- Alabama Fire Crackers.

These are the type of party snacks that you can make ahead and are ready for whoever pops in.

But besides serving the Ranch crackers to family and guests, think about making up several batches and giving them as gifts.

Don't you think that is a fantastic idea? Store up on the ingredients now, and look for some cute containers. Watch the excitement when you deliver the gift.

Tutti a tavolo è pronto!

Un caro saluto e alla prossima.

You may need...

As An Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

We need to buy red pepper flakes in big containers. We use the pepper in almost all of our sauces, vegetables and seasonings. It goes fast when you use it like we do. It's super expensive in a small jar so we go for the economical size.

What's new? check out my All Our Way Store on Amazon. We'll be adding more items we love and use or wish we had to make cooking fun and easy. 

Thank you for being part of All Our Way!

Party Crackers made with ranch dressing in a bowl with red striped tea towel.

Alabama Fire Crackers Recipe

These are not your average snack crackers These saltines are transformed into a delightful party snack that is so addictive you can't eat just one. These Ranch crackers will make a fantastic addition to a bowl of soup, game day, a party, or even give a tin full as a gift. Try them and they'll become a favorite.

If you like this recipe please give it a 5-star rating.

📖 Recipe

Fire Crackers in a white bowl with a red striped tea towel underneath bowl.

Spicy Alabama Fire Crackers

Buttery rich seasoned Saltine crackers are transformed to a special party snack with just a few pantry staple ingredients. So addictive you can't eat just one.
5 from 19 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Sit overnight: 12 hours hours
Total Time: 12 hours hours 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 30 people
Calories: 199kcal
Author: Marisa Franca @ All Our Way
As An Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Equipment Needed

  • Baking sheet with rack
  • Whisk
  • Large Pour Measuring cup
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Ziplock gallon bags (2)

Ingredients

  • 16 oz. saltine crackers one pound box with 4 sleeves in box. We used Zesta.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoon Ranch Dressing Mix 2 packages
  • 3 tablespoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  • Unwrap two sleeves of crackers and put them in one Ziplock bag and the other two unwrapped sleeves in the second bag.
  • In a large mixing bowl add the olive oil and all of the seasonings. Whisk to combine all of the ingredients. We use a large measuring cup with a spout.
  • Pour half of the mixture in one bag and half in the second bag.
  • Seal the bags and gently turn each bag over several time to coat the crackers with the spice mixture.
  • Let the bag sit overnight on your counter. All of the oil should absorb by morning.
  • Remove the crackers and lay them out on the rack that's in the baking sheet.
  • Bake at 250℉ for about 15-20 minutes.
  • If you're short on time you can skip the baking but the crackers taste 1000% better baked.

Video

[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id="ZTWOQnps" upload-date="2020-07-22T20:41:59.000Z" name="Alabama Fire Cracker Recipe A Party Appetizer" description="Ranch Fire Crackers are not your usual snack. Saltines are transformed into something absolutely delicious and you can't stop and just one. They are excellent with soups, as party snacks, game day celebration and for when you get the hangries. " player-type="default" override-embed="default"]

Notes

Store the crackers in an air-tight container. They will stay crispy and delicious for several weeks - that is if your family can stay away from them. 

Nutrition

Calories: 199kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 318mg | Potassium: 41mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 237IU | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 1mg

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. William

      May 11, 2021 at 7:19 pm

      5 stars
      These are really really good we ate the first batch as soon as they came out if the oven, just wondering if there are any other flavors? Maybe something with cheese?

      Reply
      • Marisa Franca

        May 12, 2021 at 6:25 am

        Hello, William! Thank you for commenting. I'll have to look into different flavors. That's a good idea, though. Happy snacking.

        Reply
        • Ella

          June 28, 2022 at 5:09 pm

          5 stars
          Love these. Perhaps nutritious yeast.

          Reply
    2. Debbie

      December 18, 2020 at 10:43 am

      5 stars
      These fire crackers are so good and addictive. Seriously, I could not stop eating these. I made them to go with a plain chicken noodle soup and I ate more crackers than soup. I am hiding the rest from my family , lol.

      Reply
    3. Karen (Back Road Journal)

      October 27, 2020 at 10:13 am

      I always accompany my lunch salads with crackers and these sound like ones I should try.

      Reply
    4. Jo

      August 09, 2020 at 11:25 pm

      5 stars
      Who can say no to crackers! Especially when you load it up with such amazing flavors. Spicy, addictive and sooo delicious those crackers look!

      Reply
    5. Imee

      August 03, 2020 at 6:29 am

      I’ve never tried to make a crackers like yours but I’d sure like to try it this weekend to share it with my friends.

      Reply
    6. Jamie

      August 03, 2020 at 2:18 am

      5 stars
      Such a creative way to flavor crackers! I love all the spices here and can think of so many ways to serve these! Great idea and they look incredible!

      Reply
    7. Marwin Brown

      August 02, 2020 at 8:31 pm

      5 stars
      What a fun and unique looking recipe that seems super easy to make as well. Thanks!

      Reply
    8. Sues

      August 01, 2020 at 9:25 pm

      5 stars
      Ooh I love a little spice and these crackers sound absolutely delicious! Perfect with a sharp cheddar 🙂

      Reply
    9. Denise

      August 01, 2020 at 6:07 pm

      5 stars
      What a fun and easy snack idea. I have a feeling its going to be addicting!

      Reply
    10. Heidy

      July 28, 2020 at 2:44 pm

      5 stars
      This recipe for spicy Alabama Fire Crackers was awesome! My husband, a Floridian, has never had them, so this was a real treat to make for him. I saved this recipe to make again.

      Reply
    11. Lori | The Kitchen Whisperer

      July 28, 2020 at 11:56 am

      5 stars
      OMG I legit could eat an entire sleeve of saltines in one setting but these... these are NEXT LEVEL! I cannot wait to make this for our next movie night!

      Reply
    12. Marta

      July 28, 2020 at 10:15 am

      I have everything I need to make these spicy crackers and the kids are asking to watch Hamilton (AGAIN) tonight. This would be a great movie snack.

      Reply
      • Marisa Franca

        July 28, 2020 at 11:26 am

        It would be perfect and the recipe makes a lot!xoxo

        Reply
    13. Chef Dennis

      July 28, 2020 at 5:49 am

      5 stars
      What a great dish to serve on parties! These Spicy Alabama Fire Crackers look sooo appetizing and I can't wait to try making this

      Reply
    14. Gloria

      July 27, 2020 at 10:18 am

      5 stars
      I am a cracker fanatic. I know these would be a hit in our house. Spicy and delicious. Addictive for sure.

      Reply
    15. Jovina Coughlin

      July 26, 2020 at 2:03 pm

      What a great way to dress up good ole saltines and this snack looks delicious and easy to make. Wonder how it got the name Alabama.

      Reply
      • Marisa Franca Stewart

        July 26, 2020 at 2:54 pm

        Hi, Jovina! It's very popular in the South -- but why Alabama? It could be that it was found in a lot of the cookbooks for potlucks and such. They could just as easily be called Florida Fire Crackers if you make them. LOL

        Reply

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    Ranch fire crackers are not your average snack. The seasoning and spices transforms the saltines into something delicious and addictive. Serve these with soups or stew or by themselves at a party, game day celebration, or just for you and your family for snacking when you get the hangries. #ranchcrackers, #firecrackers, #partycrackers, #Alabamafirecrackers.Ranch fire crackers are not your average snack. The seasoning and spices transforms the saltines into something delicious and addictive. Serve these with soups or stew or by themselves at a party, game day celebration, or just for you and your family for snacking when you get the hangries. #ranchcrackers, #firecrackers, #partycrackers, #Alabamafirecrackers.

    I’m Marisa Franca, a home chef, food writer, and photographer who believes that you can make gourmet quality food at home with simple seasonal ingredients. I’m passionate about family, food, friends, everything Italian, and happy endings.

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    Ranch fire crackers are not your average snack. The seasoning and spices transforms the saltines into something delicious and addictive. Serve these with soups or stew or by themselves at a party, game day celebration, or just for you and your family for snacking when you get the hangries. #ranchcrackers, #firecrackers, #partycrackers, #Alabamafirecrackers.Ranch fire crackers are not your average snack. The seasoning and spices transforms the saltines into something delicious and addictive. Serve these with soups or stew or by themselves at a party, game day celebration, or just for you and your family for snacking when you get the hangries. #ranchcrackers, #firecrackers, #partycrackers, #Alabamafirecrackers.

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