Everything Ranch Cheese Pretzel

Last winter during a lazy weekend movie marathon, I found myself staring at an almost-empty pantry and a serious craving for something salty and satisfying. That random experiment of tossing together whatever crunch I could find ended up becoming the snack that now disappears within minutes at every gathering. The way that ranch seasoning melts into everything bagel seasoning creates this crazy addictive coating that makes it impossible to eat just one handful.

My sister texted me at 11 PM one night raving about some fancy snack mix she had at a party, so naturally I stayed up recreating it in my pajamas. The kitchen smelled like buttery ranch heaven, and my husband wandered in wondering what was happening. Now whenever we host game night, everyone assumes I spent hours making this special blend, and I just smile and hand them the bowl.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mini pretzels: The salty backbone that holds everything together, and those little holes catch extra seasoning pockets
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese crackers: Adds that sharp cheesy punch that balances the ranch perfectly
• 1 cup roasted salted cashews: Their buttery creaminess is the secret that makes this feel premium
• 1 cup bite sized rye chips: Brings that deep earthy flavor and extra crunch texture
• 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter: The golden glue that helps everything bagel seasoning actually stick to every piece
• 2 tbsp ranch seasoning powder: That familiar tangy dill kick that makes everything taste better
• 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning: The MVP ingredient with garlic, onion, and sesame creating layers of savory goodness
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Doubles down on that roasted aromatic flavor
• ¼ tsp onion powder: Sweet savory depth that rounds out the seasoning blend

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 300°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later

Pile together the base mix:

In a large mixing bowl, dump in pretzels, cheese crackers, cashews, and rye chips

Whisk up the magic coating:

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with ranch seasoning, everything bagel seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth

Coat everything evenly:

Pour that buttery seasoning mixture over your snack mix and toss gently until every single piece is covered

Spread and bake:

Spread in one layer on your prepared sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, giving it a stir halfway through

Let it cool completely:

The crunch really sets in as it cools, so resist sampling until fully cooled

Save

After bringing this to my neighbor's housewarming party, she texted me the next day asking for the recipe because her husband had apparently finished the entire container during his work from home lunch break. Now I always keep a Mason jar of this mix on my counter for afternoon snack attacks, and it has saved me from ordering takeout more times than I care to admit.

Making It Your Own

The beauty of this recipe is how it adapts to whatever you have in your pantry. I have used Cheez Its instead of cheese crackers, swapped in mixed nuts, and even added those little sesame breadsticks when I wanted extra crunch. The seasoning ratio stays the same, but the base mix is completely flexible.

Storage Secrets

After much trial and error, I have learned that glass Mason jars keep this mix crunchiest the longest. Plastic containers seem to soften the pretzels faster, and honestly, something about seeing that colorful mix through glass makes me happier every time I reach for a handful.

Serving Ideas

This mix works everywhere from casual movie nights to fancy charcuterie boards. I like to set out small bowls during cocktail hour because the seasoning flavor keeps people coming back for just one more handful.

• Package in cute cellophane bags with twine for the easiest homemade holiday gift
• Crush slightly and sprinkle over baked potatoes or mac and cheese for instant crunch
• Keep a small container in your car for emergency road trip snacking

Save

There is something deeply satisfying about making something so delicious from such simple ingredients. Happy snacking, and enjoy watching your friends try to guess what makes this taste so special.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long does this snack stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, this savory blend will retain its freshness and crunch for up to one week. Ensure it is completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess.

→ Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like almonds or peanuts instead of cashews. You can also vary the type of cheese crackers or add other small savory crackers to the mix for unique textures and flavors.

→ What can I add for extra spice?

For a delightful kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the melted butter mixture before tossing. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat.

→ Is this suitable for dietary restrictions?

This preparation is vegetarian. It contains wheat, dairy, and tree nuts. If you have specific dietary needs, carefully check ingredient labels for all components, especially for hidden allergens like sesame in everything bagel seasoning.

→ Can I make a larger batch for a crowd?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients for a bigger gathering. Just ensure you use a large enough baking sheet or multiple sheets to spread the mixture in a single layer, allowing for even baking and crispness.