Ranch Cheez-It Snack Mix

This Cheez-It snack mix has it all! Salty pretzels, cheesy crackers, satisfying nuts…all mixed up with ranch seasoning and baked to bring it all together. It’s perfect for holiday gifting, game days, movie or game nights at home, or as an anytime snack. With just a few minutes of prep, this ranch snack mix is quick and easy to make and tastes so much better than the versions you’ll find at the store.

Snack and cereal mixes like Chex Mix are major comfort food for me, not a Christmas would pass without my Minnesota aunties bringing buckets (literally!) of snack mixes. This version is modeled after my ranch Chex Mix, but we’ve swapped some of the cereal for crowd-favorite Cheez-Its and oyster crackers instead! And if you like salty AND sweet flavors, try my sweet and salty Chex Mix.

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Ingredients

• Cheese crackers – I’ve used Cheez-It cheese snack crackers, but you can use any cheese crackers. You can also use different flavors of Cheez-Its if you like some more than others. they would all work really deliciously in this mix and I think the white cheddar would be especially yummy.
• Pretzels – I’ve used small twists, but any type of pretzel will work. I like the variety of different shapes, so take that into consideration if you also appreciate that.
• Oyster crackers – I have a small obsession with oyster crackers and saltine crackers – you can use either here! The oyster crackers are a nice, small shape. I’ve also used mini saltines in the mix and those work well too.
• Nuts – The recipe calls for mixed nuts, but it’s more important that you choose your favorite type of nut or mixed nuts. I love bumping up the ratio of nuts in snack mix recipes like this one as it is a great way to add in some nutrition, but it’s also important to use the variety you like best.
• Butter – Use high-quality butter for best flavor. You could also use a dairy-free butter alternative if needed.
• Sugar – We use just a tiny amount of sugar to balance out the salty flavors (and it’s a nod to the Dots pretzels that we love!), but you could omit if you prefer.
• Ranch seasoning – This mix uses a packet of dry ranch seasoning, but don’t worry, if you’re a ranch lover and you buy the seasoning in bulk, I’ve also included measurements! 😉 If you make your own ranch seasoning, use that instead.
• Worcestershire seasoning – This gives a classic savory flavor to the mix.
• Garlic powder – Another extra seasoning to add in more savory flavor.
• Cayenne powder – This adds a touch of heat, without adding spice! It’s more of a balancing spice than anything else.

How to Make Ranch Snack Mix

This is an overview, the detailed instructions can be found below in the recipe card.

1. Mix crackers. In an extra-large bowl, mix the cheese crackers, pretzels, oyster crackers, and mixed nuts together.

2. Mix butter mixture. Melt butter in a small bowl. Add sugar, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and cayenne powder and mix until combined.
3. Coat crackers. Drizzle the butter ranch over the cracker mixture and stir to coat everything evenly. Divide into two extra large rimmed sheet pans so the crackers are mostly in a single layer.

4. Bake. Bake snack mix for 60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

Storage

Store snack mixes like this in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks.

Can you freeze?

Yes! You can also freeze snack mixes for 2-3 months. It’s a great option for making ahead or holiday gifting.

More Easy Snack and Appetizer Recipes

If you like this party mix recipe, you might also like some of these other easy appetizer and snack recipes:

• Cowboy Caviar
• Black Bean Hummus
• Creamy Apple Dip
• Chili Cheese Dip

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Food styling and photography by Loren Runion.

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