Bam! Crash! Boom! Fireworks are the best. And they’re not just for Summer cookouts anymore. New Year’s Eve has also decided to get in on the act the last few years. In fact, in Europe we saw the use of these big, beautiful, colorful explosions in the skies over every village at the stroke of midnight. This year in South Texas, we were able to see fireworks from several directions when the clock struck the new year. I love them.
But what about bringing that explosive enthusiasm to our food? Or even in a quick nosh while watching the celebrations in the sky? Well, wonder no more. I give you Fire Crackers! (get it?)
Have you ever marinaded crackers? Crazy talk, you say? Pish posh. And saltine crackers? Cheap and tasteless? Puh-leez! All bunk. Believe it or not, after you try this super simple cracker taste explosion, you’ll never look at the meager saltine the same way.
We are fortunate here in South Texas to have several wineries in the area. Think Texas doesn’t have good wine? Think again! We were out one afternoon in search of a good glass of vino when we came across a version of these Fire Crackers at the tasting bar at Dry Comal Creek Vineyards (their name for them–can’t take credit for that!). While their version uses slightly different spices, I knew I was on to something when I tasted them with their sparkling wine. The bubbles and vague sweetness of the wine was a perfect pairing with the little punch provided by these kicked up saltine crackers.
Seriously. I wouldn’t kid you about snacks that go so well with wine. I hope you know me better than that by now, dear reader!
Give these Fire Crackers a try and then get back to me. I’m eager to hear how YOUR experience with this firework of tastes will wind up!
| Servings | Prep Time |
| 12 people | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time |
| 3 hours |
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When I read the recipe they provided at the winery, I admit that I was skeptical. And then I tasted them. I tasted them a LOT. When I got home I changed up the recipe to fit my every day snack palate. And DANG if they aren't addictive little fire works of a snack! Give 'em a go and light up your snack time!
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- 4 sleeves saltine crackers
- 1 cup canola oil
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1 package Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix
- 1 tbsp. chili powder
- Grab a gallon-sized zip top plastic bag and all of your ingredients
- Place crackers into bag. Add canola oil, cayenne & dressing mix to cup measure.
- Mix canola oil, cayenne pepper and dry dressing mix; be sure to whisk until no clumps of dry mix can be seen in the oil.
- Pour marinade into plastic bag over crackers. Be sure to coat as many crackers as possible while trying not to break crackers in the meantime.
- Toss crackers every 20-30 minutes for 3 hours. Spread crackers onto parchment or wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle chili powder over crackers, and toss to coat.
- Allow crackers to sit for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve crackers on their own, or with spreadable cheese, dips or paired with sparkling wine. Keep any remaining crackers in an airtight container for up to one week.
This ridiculously simple snack is so easy it was a head slap moment for me. I mean, first of all it's got ranch dressing mix on it. Duh. What's not to like about THAT? And that it's paired with sparkling wine was an even bigger realization. Duh x2!
What is great about this type of cracker marinade is that the flavors are only limited by what you have in your spice cabinet. Want a little more heat? Add more cayenne. Looking for a smoky flavor? How about chipotle powder, or smoked paprika? Sweet tooth? Try a cinnamon and sugar mixture.
What flavors would YOU add to these otherwise simple saltine crackers? What would YOUR Fire Crackers include?
These crackers look awesome! So perfect for snacking!
These sound like some really spicy crackers! Thanks for sharing!
I have never thought to marinate crackers before, ingenious.
When I saw the similar recipe at the winery, I had a head slap moment, too! Now to play with the spices and make a bunch of variations…!
I honestly did not know Texas had wineries, not had I ever thought to do a marinade for premade crackers! I learned two new delicious things today and it isn’t even 8am yet 🙂
Believe it or not, there are some really good ones. Many of the better ones know their limitations and bring in grapes from other places like CA and blend with their estate grapes, or focus on the grapes that truly do well in this hotter climate (like a Viognier). Have to say it’s worth a trip to the Hill Country of Texas for the wine and food!
I’ve never spiced up my homemade crackers before but I love the idea! These look and sound so perfect to serve at parties, Super Bowl, or just on a random Friday afternoon…to myself…with some sparkling wine… 😉 Awesome recipe, Dee Dee!
I have heard of these “devilish” things but have not had the chance to try or make them. Next on my list and a must for a Superbowl Party!