With so many people staying with my parents, quick dinners, appetizers/snacks, and drinks are especially important. Many times I’ll make a big cheese board for everyone to enjoy before dinner. But cheese boards can take a little more time and work to prepare. And sometimes you just want something different. That’s when I switch things up. I have a lot of go-to appetizers, but I’m enjoying making fun snack mixes. They’re not something I think to make throughout the year, just around the holidays. They’re always fun and easy to make and can even be made ahead of time. Plus I love that this is not Chex mix, which I always try to save for Christmas Eve since my mom’s recipe is so special, plus it’s a tradition for us! I only make it on Christmas Eve, so just one day every year!
Details
This is pretty easy. You just need saltine crackers, large pretzel twists, and then a big mix of dried herbs and spices! Oh and butter. You definitely need butter for the mix. I melt the butter in a big bowl. Use the biggest mixing bowl you have. Then literally everything gets added to that bowl. I start with the crackers and pretzels. Then, the herbs and spices, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, parsley, chives, dill, smoked paprika (this is key), garlic, and onion powder. To keep the mix spicy, I add chili flakes. If you don’t love spice, just use less or omit it altogether. And of course, if you enjoy things spicy, add more! For me, the real star of this recipe however is the smoked paprika. I don’t think we use this wonderful spice enough! It adds the flavor of paprika, but with a very subtle smokiness that I find truly delicious in most recipes. You can’t use too much! Now add the parmesan and rosemary. Spread the mix out over a couple of baking sheets to allow the air to circulate, then bake. Don’t try to cook this at a higher temperature, let it cook low and slow. I’ve tested using higher temps and it never works out well. Yes, low and slow is key. But once the mix is baked, you can enjoy it for a couple of days, so it’s great to make ahead if needed. Though, I do think it’s best straight out of the oven. YUM. My biggest tip? Make a double batch, this mix will get eaten fast. Great for the holidays, but so good for any upcoming family/friend nights. I know my brothers are going to LOVE these. They’re the easiest to throw together. Plus, I usually have all the ingredients stashed away in my pantry. Perfect for last-minute snacking. Have fun with this recipe guys, hope you all enjoy!! Looking for other fun holiday appetizers? Here are a few ideas: Pull Apart Garlic Butter Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders Whipped Goat Cheese with Warm Candied Bacon and Dates Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey Pastry Wrapped Baked Brie with Maple Butter Roasted Apples Baked Sweet Potato Parmesan Tater Tots Soft Pretzels with Chipotle Queso Lastly, if you make these Everything Ranch Crackers and Pretzels (the addicting snack mix), be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!
