This Crack Pretzel recipe is the ultimate party snack! Season and bake to perfection, then watch as they disappear from the bowl.
This post is all about how to make Crack Pretzels.
So, why are Crack Pretzels undeniably delicious? Because they’re seasoned just right and baked by following an easy step-by-step method that makes these addicting snacks wonderfully crispy.
While these Cracked Pretzels can be served alone, I suggest mixing honey-roasted peanuts into the serving bowl with the baked pretzels. You can’t beat the taste of this sweet and salty hybrid.
If you have guests with peanut allergies, scrap that idea (obviously) and serve these tasty pretzels next to some sliced cheese like Brie or Pepper Jack. Better yet, add these Crack Pretzels to a charcuterie spread and watch your guests drool and graze to a perfect appetizer board.
You’ll be happy to hear this party recipe is easy, but following the instructions and tips below is important. Let’s get into all the details so you can start serving this addicting snack for your next gathering!
Addicting Crack Pretzels Recipe
Is This Seasoned Pretzels Recipe Spicy?
If you want to season the Crack Pretzels with cayenne pepper, it will add spice. Of course, you can make them mildly spicy by adding only 1/4 teaspoon. Or, add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon for an optimal spicy flavor. If you’re unsure how much spice you want, taste-test the pretzels before adding more cayenne pepper.
You’ll Need Five Ingredients:
- Olive Oil, 1/4 Cup
- Ranch Dressing Mix, 1 ounce aka 2 tablespoons OR One Packet
- Garlic Powder, 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon – If you want the pretzels to taste less garlicky, only add 1/4 teaspoon.
- Cayenne Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon for mild spice or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon for optimal spice.
Optional Ingredient Additives:
Equipment Needed:
- 1 Ziploc Bag (gallon-size)
- Tongs (optional but helps when coating and tossing the pretzels to ensure they’re coated fully in the seasonings.)
- Oven
Are Crack Pretzels A Popular Christmas Party Snack?
Yes, but Crack Pretzels can be made all year round! Because we tend to gather and host more parties during Christmas, these have become quite the popular holiday snack.
How To Make Crack Pretzels, Step-By-Step
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Add the olive oil and pretzels to a Ziploc gallon-size bag and seal. Shake gently until the pretzels are coated in the oil.
Step 3: Add the rest of the dry seasonings to the bag and shake gently until the pretzels are covered.
Step 4: Grab your baking pan lined with parchment paper and add the seasoned pretzels. You might have some excess seasonings left on the lining of the Ziploc bag, so scrap them out with your hand the best you can and sprinkle them on top of the pretzels.
Step 5: Toss the pretzels gently using a pair of tongs and add the pan to the oven for 7 minutes and 30 seconds.
Step 6: When the timer goes off, gently toss the pretzels again and set the timer for another 7 minutes and 30 seconds.
Step 7: When the timer goes off, toss the pretzels again and set the timer for another 7 minutes and 30 seconds. Bake time totals 22 minutes and 30 seconds at 250 degrees F.
Step 8: Remove the pan from the oven after the third baking session and toss the pretzels gently. Allow them to sit for 10 minutes on the pan before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
- One of the BEST Party Snacks.
- So EASY To Make.
- They’re addictingly DELICIOUS. I Bet Ya Can’t Just Eat One!
FAQs & Tips For Ranch Seasoned Crack Pretzels
Why Are They Called Crack Pretzels, aka Christmas Crack Pretzels?
These snack pretzels are ADDICTING, hence the “crack” pretzels name. This snack mix is also popular to serve during the Christmas holiday.
How Should I Store Crack Pretzels?
Store these seasoned pretzels in an airtight container or Ziploc bag for up to one to two weeks.
Can I Use Popcorn Oil?
Yes! If you want to substitute the olive oil with popcorn oil, you can for this recipe.
What Shape Pretzel Should I Use For This Snack Mix Recipe?
You can use almost any shape pretzel, like sticks, loops, or mini twists.
Can I Use Butter Instead Of Oil?
I’ve never used melted butter instead of oil, and I’m unsure how it would turn out. I think it would be delicious, but you might need more melted butter than oil.
What Other Seasonings Can I Add?
This is really up to you! Some like to add onion powder, dill, and even a pinch of cinnamon. Have fun with this recipe, and do some taste testing if you want more seasoning. Just be careful not to add extra salt or oil. Pretzels are salty already, and a little oil goes a long way.
Can This Recipe Be Doubled Or Tripled?
Absolutely! Double or triple all the ingredients if you’re making a huge batch for a party. I recommend baking a pound at a time or using a larger baking sheet so the pretzels are spaced and evenly baked.
Are Crack Pretzels Spicy?
If you want them to be spicy, use cayenne pepper. If you do not want any spice, avoid using this ingredient.
Can I Prep These A Day Ahead Of A Party?
Yes! Making this recipe the day ahead is no problem.
Can Crack Pretzels Be A No-Bake Recipe?
I prefer baking them, but some recipes suggest not baking the pretzels, coating them in the oil and seasonings, and letting them sit at room temperature for two to three days before serving.
Addicting Crack Pretzels Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Ziploc Bag (gallon-size)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Tongs (optional but helps when coating and tossing the pretzels to ensure they’re coated fully in the seasonings.)
- Oven
- Serving Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients You'll Need For Crack Pretzels:
- 1 16-ounce Bag Of Pretzels (One Pound)
- 1/4 Cup Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Ranch Dressing Mix (One Ounce OR One Packet)
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder (If you want the pretzels to taste less garlicky, only add 1/4 teaspoon.)
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon for mild spice or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon for optimal spice.)
Optional Ingredient Additives:
- Honey Roasted Peanuts OR Corn Nuts
Instructions
How To Make Crack Pretzels, Step-By-Step
- Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Add the olive oil and pretzels to a Ziploc gallon-size bag and seal. Shake gently until the pretzels are coated in the oil.
- Add the rest of the dry seasonings to the bag and shake gently until the pretzels are covered.
- Grab your baking pan lined with parchment paper and add the seasoned pretzels. You might have some excess seasonings left on the lining of the Ziploc bag, so scrap them out with your hand the best you can and sprinkle them on top of the pretzels.
- Toss the pretzels gently using a pair of tongs and add the pan to the oven for 7 minutes and 30 seconds.
- When the timer goes off, gently toss the pretzels again and set the timer for another 7 minutes and 30 seconds.
- When the timer goes off, toss the pretzels again and set the timer for another 7 minutes and 30 seconds. Bake time totals 22 minutes and 30 seconds at 250 degrees F.
- Remove the pan from the oven after the third baking session and toss the pretzels gently. Allow them to sit for 10 minutes on the pan before serving.
Nutrition
Final Thoughts On Crack Pretzels
These Crack Pretzels are the perfect party snack, and yes, your guests will become ADDICTED. Also, the recipe is so easy to make, which is just another great reason to make a big batch for your next gathering!
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Related Party Recipes:
Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Rods
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