Make a crunchy, salty, and tangy snack that you can make in minutes and share with friends.
INTRODUCTION
Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix is a simple mix of pretzels, crackers, and a ranch spice coating. It is crisp, salty, and full of ranch flavor. You can bake it in the oven so the spices stick well. This mix works for parties, games, or movie nights. If you like a warm drink with your snack, try an easy homemade chai tea latte mix to pair with it.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is quick and low fuss. The mix uses common pantry items. The ranch mix gives strong flavor with little work. You can make a big batch fast and share it or keep it for later. It is also easy to change the recipe to match what you like. If you want a warm cup while you snack, try a simple homemade chai tea latte mix to sip alongside.
HOW TO MAKE Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix
This recipe is fast and uses one bowl plus a baking sheet. You stir the dry snacks with a ranch oil mix and bake low and slow. The low oven heat dries the mix and makes the coating crisp.
Here is an easy tip: measure the oil and seasoning well so the mix coats evenly. If you add too much oil the mix will feel oily. If you do not add enough, the spices will not stick.
You can also change one cracker for another. Use what you have. For an extra crunch, add nuts or cereals. For a dairy boost, toss in small cheese crackers. If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne.
This recipe works well for a crowd and can sit out on a snack table. For a cozy night at home, serve it in a large bowl with small cups so each person can grab a portion. If you want a warm drink to go with it, try a quick homemade chai tea latte mix to balance the salty snack.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- One large mixing bowl
- One small bowl for mix
- Whisk or fork
- Large baking sheet
- Spatula or spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Use a rimmed baking sheet so no pieces fall off in the oven. A spatula helps to spread the mix in a single layer. If you make a lot, use two baking sheets and bake in batches. For a warm drink on the side, you might heat milk on the stove and stir in a homemade chai tea latte mix for a mild, spiced drink.
Ingredients You’ll Need :
4 cups pretzels, 4 cups goldfish crackers, 4 cups oyster crackers, ½ cup vegetable oil, 2 packs ranch dressing seasoning mix, 1 teaspoon dill weed, ½ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic powder
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F.
In a large bowl, add pretzels, goldfish crackers, and oyster crackers. Give them a gentle stir to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, ranch dressing seasoning mix, dill weed, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic powder until well combined.
Drizzle ranch mixture over the dry snacks, stirring constantly as you pour. Keep stirring until every piece is evenly coated.
Spread coated snack mix onto a large baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring everything halfway through to ensure even baking.
Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet before storing.
HOW TO SERVE Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix
Serve this mix in a large bowl for a party or in small cups for a snack table. Put napkins and small scoops near the bowl so people can grab a bit without touching the whole pile. You can also pack it into small clear bags for gift favors. For a good combo, offer a mild drink like milk or a spiced tea. A warm drink made with homemade chai tea latte mix can be a nice match to the salty, herby mix.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix
Store the cooled snack mix in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for up to two weeks. If you want to freeze it, put the mix in a freezer-safe bag and squeeze out the air. Freeze for up to three months. To use, let it thaw at room temperature. Do not microwave until thawed, or the coating can soften. If it loses crunch, bake it for 5 minutes at 250 degrees F to refresh.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve in a large bowl on game day with small cups for guests.
- Pack in cellophane bags for teacher gifts or party favors.
- Add to a snack board with nuts, dried fruit, and cheese for variety.
- Pair with mild drinks like milk, iced tea, or a warm spiced tea made from a homemade chai tea latte mix.
- Use as a crunchy topper for a savory snack salad or bowl.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Ranch: Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne or chili powder to the oil mix.
- Cheesy Ranch: Toss in 1 cup of cheese crackers or shredded dry cheese then bake.
- Nut Mix: Add 2 cups of salted peanuts or mixed nuts for extra protein and crunch.
- Herb Mix: Swap dill for dried parsley or add 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pretzels and crackers and a gluten-free ranch mix.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this without oil?
A: You need some oil to help the spice mix stick. Use 1/4 cup oil and add a little water if you want less oil, but the coating may not stick as well.
Q: Can I skip the oven?
A: You can skip baking, but the mix will be moist and not as crisp. Baking at 250 F dries the mix and helps the spices stick.
Q: How do I make this less salty?
A: Use low-sodium crackers and pretzels. Reduce the amount of ranch seasoning by half, then taste and add more if needed.
Q: Can I add fresh herbs?
A: Fresh herbs will wilt and may not dry well in this mix. Use dried herbs like dill or parsley for best results.
Q: Will this work with other crackers?
A: Yes, you can swap in other small crackers or cereal. Just keep the pieces small and similar in size.
Q: How long does it stay crunchy?
A: Stored in an airtight container, it stays crunchy for up to two weeks at room temperature.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix
Make the mix up to one week ahead and keep it in an airtight container. If you plan to give it as a gift, pack it the day you give it for best crunch. You can make a base mix of dry snacks without oil and spices a week ahead, then add the ranch oil mix and bake the day you plan to serve. If you want a paired drink, make a batch of homemade chai tea latte mix in advance and store it in a jar.
Conclusion
This Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix is an easy, tasty treat that you can make in under an hour. It is great for parties, gifts, or a quiet night at home. For an extra reference and a similar take on this classic snack, see The Ultimate Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix Recipe.
Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, add pretzels, goldfish crackers, and oyster crackers. Give them a gentle stir to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, ranch dressing seasoning mix, dill weed, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Drizzle the ranch mixture over the dry snacks, stirring constantly as you pour. Keep stirring until every piece is evenly coated.
- Spread the coated snack mix onto a large baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring everything halfway through to ensure even baking.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet before storing.