Alabama Firecracker Spicy Crackers (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Seasoning Mixture

01 - 120 ml olive oil
02 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
04 - 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
05 - 28 g ranch dressing mix
06 - 3 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes

→ Base

07 - 450 g saltine crackers

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 120°C. This low temperature ensures even baking and optimal absorption of flavors.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, blend olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, ranch dressing mix, and crushed red pepper flakes until uniformly combined.
03 - Add saltine crackers to the bowl. Gently toss to evenly coat each cracker with the seasoning mixture.
04 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the seasoned crackers in a single, even layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
05 - Bake crackers for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even crisping. Monitor closely to prevent over-browning.
06 - Remove baking sheet from oven. Allow crackers to cool for several minutes to achieve optimal crunch and flavor infusion.
07 - After cooling, transfer crackers to a serving dish or airtight container. Ideal for snacking or entertaining guests.

# Notes:

01 - For a milder snack, reduce or omit red pepper flakes, or substitute with paprika for gentle warmth.
02 - Enhance complexity by adding a teaspoon of chili powder or cumin to the seasoning mixture.
03 - For a creamy variation, incorporate a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese into the seasoning mixture.
04 - To make dairy-free, use a vegan ranch dressing mix or substitute ranch with a blend of dried dill, parsley, and additional garlic powder.