Fire Crackers

If you're looking for an easy but impressive appetizers for a crowd, it's time you got to know Fire Crackers, also known as Alabama Fire Crackers.

They're simple. They're delicious. They're incredibly easy to make. Bake them—or don't bake them—just make sure you shake them really well.

Here, learn how to make fire crackers, and get ideas for how to serve these timeless snacks.

Fire Crackers: Proof Simple Is Best

Sure, you could fret over whipping up a fancy potluck snack, but why bother? All you really need to please an unfussy Southern crowd without any fuss is this fire crackers recipe you can whip up easily and on a shoestring budget.

This recipe comes together with just a few simple ingredients and one key trick: Make sure to shake the crackers well inside the zip-top bag before letting them sit overnight so they soak up all that great flavor. Whether you bake them or not is up to you entirely. Either way, the result is easy, tasty, and a soon-to-be obsession. 

Fire Crackers Ingredients

To make this fire crackers recipe, you will need:

• Saltine crackers: Four sleeves is a whole standard box.
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Black pepper
• Ranch dressing mix
• Red pepper flakes
• Olive oil: Your favorite brand is fine, but we are using several cups, so make sure you have plenty.

How To Make Fire Crackers

The full fire crackers recipe is below, with all ingredients and measurements, too. But here's a brief recap.

• Step 1. Mix the oil: Into a gallon-size zip-lock bag, pour olive oil, seasonings, and spices. Close the bag and knead it to thoroughly mix the ingredients inside.
• Step 2. Add the crackers: Next, put the crackers into the bag, re-seal it, and gently shake or turn it over several times to coat the crackers with the spice mixture. Pro tip: The more times you turn or shake the bag, the better you’ll coat the crackers for a better result.
• Step 3. Marinate: Now let the bag sit overnight.
• Step 4. Bake: Afterward, remove the crackers from the bag, and lay them out on a baking sheet. Bake them at 250°F for about 15 minutes if you choose. Work in batches to cook all 11 dozen.

What Is an Alabama Fire Cracker?

Known as an Alabama fire cracker or just plain firecrackers, this casual snack consists of Saltine crackers soaked in oil or butter and basic spices for a savory, spicy kick. After soaking, the crackers are baked again until crispy again.

Want an even spicier version? Try these Five-Alarm Fire Crackers.

Do I Have to Bake Firecrackers?

While this recipe calls for baking the crackers at  250°F for about 15 minutes, this step is entirely optional. If you are short on time, the crackers still taste great as a no-bake snack.

Firecracker Recipe Variations

Feel free to make any substitutions you like to this fuss-free recipe, based on your taste preferences or on the ingredients you have at home. Swap out the Saltines for Ritz crackers, Cheez-Its, or Triscuits. Or use mini Saltines instead of full-size crackers for a snack guests can grab on the go by the handful.

You can also swap out the olive oil for any other neutrally flavored oil (such as avocado or vegetable), or customize the spices as you prefer.

How To Serve Firecrackers

Serve fire crackers all on their own as a potluck snack. Add them to a cheese board for a flavorful—and distinctly Southern—twist. Or serve them alongside soup, such as our roasted tomato soup, for dipping.

How To Store Firecrackers

Store Alabama fire crackers in an air-tight container at room temperature. They should last up to a week.

More Potluck Party Snack Recipes

• Bacon Bowtie Crackers
• Warm Cheese Box Bites
• Spicy Bisquick Sausage Balls
• Asparagus Ribbon Crostini
• Butter Baked Saltine Crackers

Additional reporting by Alesandra Dubin.