Everything Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix

I started making this mix on game nights when I got tired of serving the same old chips. The smell of ranch and everything seasoning toasting in the oven fills the entire house within minutes, and everyone always asks what Im making before they even see it. Its become my go-to whenever I need something quick, crunchy, and way more interesting than store-bought snacks. The best part is watching people go back for handful after handful without realizing how much theyve eaten. I double the batch now because it never lasts.

I brought this to a potluck once and three people texted me the next day asking for the recipe. One friend admitted she ate half the bowl standing in her kitchen at midnight. It was supposed to be a casual side snack, but it ended up being the thing everyone remembered. Now I make it for every gathering, and Ive learned to hide a small container for myself before I set it out.

Ingredients

• Mini pretzels: These add the perfect salty crunch and hold onto the seasoning beautifully without getting soggy.
• Cheddar cheese crackers: They bring a cheesy, buttery richness that balances the ranch and everything seasoning.
• Roasted salted cashews: The creamy texture and slight sweetness of cashews contrast nicely with the sharp, salty crackers and pretzels.
• Bite-sized rye chips: These add a hearty, earthy flavor and extra crunch that makes the mix feel more substantial.
• Melted unsalted butter: It coats every piece evenly and helps the seasonings stick while adding richness.
• Ranch seasoning powder: This is the tangy, herby backbone of the whole mix and what makes it irresistible.
• Everything bagel seasoning: The sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion bits give it that bold, savory punch.
• Garlic powder: It deepens the savory notes and amplifies the ranch flavor.
• Onion powder: A little goes a long way in adding sweetness and complexity to the seasoning blend.

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to 300°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This low temperature ensures everything toasts evenly without burning.

Combine the Base:

Toss the pretzels, cheddar crackers, cashews, and rye chips together in a large bowl until theyre evenly mixed.

Mix the Seasoning:

Whisk the melted butter with ranch seasoning, everything bagel seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Make sure its smooth and well blended.

Coat Everything:

Pour the seasoned butter over the snack mix and toss gently but thoroughly until every piece is coated. Use your hands if you need to, it works better than a spoon.

Spread and Bake:

Spread the mix in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet so it toasts evenly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until its golden and fragrant.

Cool and Serve:

Let it cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving bowl or storage container. It will crisp up even more as it cools.

Save

The first time I made this, my husband walked into the kitchen, grabbed a handful straight off the warm baking sheet, and declared it dangerous. He wasnt wrong. Now its our Friday night ritual: a big bowl of this mix, a movie, and zero guilt about finishing the whole thing between the two of us.

How to Store and Keep It Fresh

This mix stays crunchy for up to a week if you keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. I like using a big glass jar so I can see when Im running low. If it starts to lose its crispness, you can pop it back in a 250°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh it. Just make sure its completely cool before you seal it up again, or moisture will ruin the texture.

Easy Swaps and Variations

You can swap the cashews for almonds, peanuts, or even pecans depending on what you have or what you prefer. If you want more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture. I once used white cheddar popcorn instead of crackers and it was just as good. The base recipe is forgiving, so feel free to experiment with your favorite crunchy snacks.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This snack mix is perfect for game day, movie night, road trips, or even as a crunchy topping for salads and soups. I love setting it out with cold beer, lemonade, or iced tea. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift when packed in a mason jar with a ribbon. You can serve it in small bowls at a party or leave it out in a big dish for people to graze on all night.

• Pair it with a cold drink and watch it disappear in minutes.
• Pack it in individual bags for lunchboxes or road trips.
• Sprinkle it over creamy tomato soup for a fun, crunchy contrast.

Save

This mix has become one of those recipes I make without thinking, and it always delivers. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen too.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this snack mix ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this mix up to one week in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness.

→ What can I substitute for cashews?

You can easily swap cashews for almonds, peanuts, or pecans. Any roasted, salted nut will work well in this mix.

→ How do I prevent the mix from getting soggy?

Make sure to let the mix cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container with minimal air exposure to keep it crispy.

→ Can I adjust the seasoning levels?

Absolutely! Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to taste. Add more ranch seasoning for tanginess or extra everything bagel seasoning for a bolder flavor.

→ Is this snack mix spicy?

The basic version is not spicy, offering savory and tangy flavors. However, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer some heat.

→ Can I double the batch?

Yes, you can double or triple the ingredients. Just be sure to use multiple baking sheets to spread everything in a single layer for even baking.