Ranch Oyster Crackers

Ranch Oyster Crackers are perfect for easy snacking, whether you’re preparing for holiday festivities or simply want a salty, crunchy treat. Imagine serving them with your favorite tomato soup – it’s an amazing combination – trust me!

The holiday season always reminds me of this recipe. In just 45 minutes, you can have a batch ready to serve. And trust me, they disappear fast. Everyone who tries them immediately wants more.

When your holiday cookie tray still has that tiny, annoying empty spot, these spiced ranch oyster crackers are a lifesaver. Slip them into decorative bags, and they easily fill up the space. Or place them in larger containers to present as a unique hostess gift.
In our house, they’ve earned the nickname “crack crackers” due to their one-of-a-kind flavor. Yet, their appeal isn’t limited to the holiday seasons. They’re a hit year-round, and I find no reason to save them just for special occasions.

What’s more, they’re easy to make and are a wallet-friendly alternative to snacks laden with chocolates or expensive nuts.

This particular recipe has a twist with ranch seasoning, a generous pinch of dill, and the kick of lemon-pepper. The lemon pepper gives a light tangy note, enhancing the overall taste.

While the lemon pepper adds an exciting twist, feel free to skip it if it’s not to your liking. Want a spicier kick? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or other seasonings that complement the ranch flavor. Remember, recipes are starting points. Don’t be afraid to change it up according to your taste.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Dry Ranch dressing mix Hidden Valley Ranch, is a perfect choice.
• Garlic powder
• Dill weed
• Lemon pepper
• Oyster cracker

Substitutions and Additions

• Olive Oil: If you prefer a different kind of oil or are out of olive oil, you can easily substitute it with vegetable oil, canola oil or sunflower oil. These oils have a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients. You can use coconut oil if you want a hint of coconut flavor.
• Dry Ranch seasoning mix: My latest favorite is Hidden Valley that’s labeled as “Restaurant Style.” If you can’t find this, substitute it with a mixture of dried parsley, dried dill weed, garlic powder, onion powder, dried onion flakes, dried chives, salt, and pepper.
• Garlic Powder: Sometimes it is called granulated garlic in the store. It is the same thing, just little larger grind.
• Dill Weed: If you don’t have this, I would just skip it.
• Lemon-Pepper: If you can’t find lemon pepper, you can make your own by combining freshly ground pepper with lemon zest.
• Oyster Crackers: In the absence of oyster crackers, you could use other small, plain crackers or pretzels. 

Additions

• Cheese: A sprinkle of grated cheddar or parmesan cheese before baking can add a delicious cheesy twist to these crackers.
• Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, or fajita seasoning for a different flavor profile for spicy ranch oyster crackers. 
• Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme could add a fragrant touch to these crackers. Just chop them finely and add to the oil mixture before baking.

How To Make Ranch-Seasoned Oyster Crackers

1. Preheat the oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Take a large mixing bowl, add all ingredients apart from the oyster crackers, and mix thoroughly.

3. Include the oyster crackers in the large bowl and gently combine until all the crackers are evenly coated with oil and spices.

4. Put the crackers in the preheated oven, spread in a single layer across a baking sheet in an even layer, and cook for 15 minutes.

5. Take it out from the oven and give it a good stir, ensuring to incorporate any remaining oil or spices from the bottom of the pan. Continue baking for another 15 minutes until golden brown.

6. Allow the ranch flavor crackers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container.

Pro Tips

• Feel free to omit the lemon pepper in the ranch oyster cracker recipe if you don’t like it.
• Add cayenne pepper or anything you think might go with the flavors.
• As with all of our simple snack recipes, we encourage you to make it your own by changing things up a bit to match your flavor preferences.
• Try not to rush the cooling process. These ranch oyster crackers taste best when they’ve had enough time to cool and let the flavors set in. 
• If you’re looking for a fun twist, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. And remember, these crackers are very forgiving. 
• If you accidentally add too much of one spice, simply balance it out with more of the others. 

Storage

Storing these flavorful Ranch Oyster Crackers is a piece of cake. After they’ve completely cooled down, just pop them into an airtight container. 

They’ll stay fresh and crispy at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. So, you can munch on them bit by bit, enjoying the tangy, savory goodness over time.

Freezing these tasty crackers won’t compromise their taste or crispness. Just store them in a freezer-safe, airtight container or zip-top bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. 

When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat – they’re perfect as is. 

FAQs

Can I Use a Different Kind of Cracker for This Recipe?

This recipe is super flexible. While oyster crackers are traditionally used because they have a great feel and absorb the flavors well, you can try them out with any small, plain crackers or pretzels. Remember that the baking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the crackers you use.

I Have a Gluten Intolerance. Can I Still Make These Crackers?

Many gluten-free crackers available in the market today work perfectly for this recipe. Just check the labels of the Ranch dressing mix and spices to ensure they’re gluten-free, too. 

Can I Make These Crackers Ahead of Time?

One of the great things about these Ranch Oyster Crackers is that they store really well.

Once completely cooled, just pop them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh and crispy for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.

If you want to store them even longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top plastic bag for up to 3 months.

MORE SNACK RECIPES YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS

• Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts
• Caramel Corn
• Party Cheese Spread
• Soft Homemade Caramels
• Alabama Fire Crackers

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