Everything Ranch Cheese Pretzel Mix

My sister showed up one Saturday with a Tupperware container that smelled like a bagel shop collided with a cheese factory, and I couldn't stop eating whatever was inside. She wouldn't tell me the recipe at first, just laughed while I picked out every last cashew. By the time she finally shared it, I'd already planned three different occasions to make it myself. It's become the thing I bring when I need to look like I tried harder than I did.

I made this for a game night once and had to physically block people from the bowl during the first quarter. Someone asked if I bought it from a gourmet shop, and I just smiled and said nothing. The empty bowl by halftime told me everything I needed to know. Now I double the batch every time because there's never enough.

Ingredients

• Mini pretzels: The salty backbone of the whole mix, they soak up the butter and seasoning without getting soggy if you don't overbake them.
• Cheddar cheese crackers: I use the little square ones because they hold onto seasoning like tiny flavor sponges and add that sharp cheesy punch.
• Roasted salted cashews: They bring a buttery richness that balances the sharpness of everything else, but almonds work great if that's what you have.
• Bite sized rye chips: These add a sturdy crunch and a slightly earthy flavor that keeps the mix from being one note.
• Melted unsalted butter: This is what makes the seasonings cling to every piece, so don't skip it or try to use oil.
• Ranch seasoning powder: The tangy, herby soul of the recipe, it brings that addictive flavor you can't quite place but can't stop eating.
• Everything bagel seasoning: Sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, it's the reason this tastes like breakfast and snack time had a baby.
• Garlic powder: Adds a mellow savory depth that supports the ranch without overpowering it.
• Onion powder: Just enough to round out the flavor and make everything taste a little more complete.

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to 300°F and line a big baking sheet with parchment paper. This low temp keeps everything from burning while it gets crispy.

Combine the Base:

Toss the pretzels, crackers, cashews, and rye chips into a large bowl. Make sure it's big enough to toss everything without launching pieces onto the counter.

Mix the Seasoning:

Whisk together the melted butter, ranch seasoning, everything bagel seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl until it looks like a savory potion. The butter should still be warm so the seasonings blend smoothly.

Coat the Mix:

Pour the seasoned butter over the snack mix and toss gently but thoroughly, using your hands if you need to. Every piece should glisten a little.

Spread and Bake:

Spread everything in a single layer on the baking sheet, don't pile it up or it won't crisp evenly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through so nothing gets too dark on the edges.

Cool Completely:

Let the mix cool on the pan until it's room temperature and crunchy. If you eat it warm, it won't have that satisfying snap yet.

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The first time I brought this to a potluck, someone grabbed a handful on their way out the door and came back ten minutes later asking if there was more. There wasn't, because I'd underestimated how fast it would disappear. That's when I learned to always stash a little bag for myself in the back of the pantry before anyone else arrives.

Storing and Keeping It Fresh

I keep mine in a big glass jar with a tight lid, and it stays crunchy for a solid week. If you live somewhere humid, toss in a small silica packet or just accept that you'll eat it all in three days anyway. I've never had a batch last long enough to go stale.

Customizing the Flavor

Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne if I want a little heat, or swap the cashews for peanuts when I'm trying to stretch my grocery budget. You can also use different crackers, like the little cheese squares or even Goldfish if you're feeling nostalgic. The seasonings are forgiving, so don't be afraid to adjust based on what's in your pantry.

Serving and Sharing

This works as well in a bowl on the coffee table as it does packed into small bags for road trips or lunchboxes. I've brought it to picnics, handed it out as hostess gifts, and left it on my desk at work where it mysteriously vanished by noon. It's one of those recipes that makes you look generous and capable without much effort at all.

• Double the batch if you're serving more than four people, trust me.
• Pack it in mason jars with a ribbon for an easy edible gift.
• Serve it alongside cold drinks and you've got an instant party setup.

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Once you make this, you'll understand why I always keep ranch seasoning and everything bagel spice stocked in my cupboard. It's the kind of recipe that turns into muscle memory, and soon you'll be making it without even looking at measurements.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this snack mix ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this mix up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. It's perfect for party prep or meal planning.

→ What can I substitute for cashews?

Almonds, peanuts, or pecans work wonderfully as substitutes. Choose your favorite nut or use what you have on hand. Each option adds a unique flavor and texture to the mix.

→ How do I prevent the mix from getting soggy?

Make sure to let the mix cool completely before storing. Spread it in a single layer during baking and stir halfway through for even toasting. Proper cooling ensures maximum crunchiness.

→ Can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?

Absolutely! Add more ranch seasoning for tanginess, increase everything bagel seasoning for extra savory notes, or add cayenne pepper for heat. Taste and adjust to your preference.

→ Is this mix suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this snack mix is vegetarian-friendly. It contains cheese crackers and butter but no meat products. Always verify individual ingredient labels if you have specific dietary requirements.

→ What's the best way to ensure even coating?

Toss gently but thoroughly in a large bowl, making sure the butter and seasoning mixture reaches all pieces. Using a spatula or your hands helps distribute the coating evenly without crushing the ingredients.