BBQ Crackers are the Perfect Happy Hour Snack

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The best happy hours have both delicious drinks and great snacks. These BBQ Crackers are a perfect make-ahead option so you always have a tasty nibble at the ready.

Made from pantry ingredients, a quick barbecue spice mix and a little time in the oven brings traditional oyster crackers to life. This is the kind of snack that I miss when we run out. I love it with a happy hour cocktail or mocktail, or as something to munch on while we watch TV.

BBQ Crackers can be made ahead of time if you’re entertaining a crowd or need a game day snack. Can’t find oyster crackers? Swap them out for mini saltine crackers.

What You Need

Oyster crackers
Olive oil
Butter, melted
Brown sugar
Chili powder
Garlic powder
Paprika
Onion powder
Salt

How to Make BBQ Crackers

Preheat oven to 275 degrees.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.

In a large bowl, mix together olive oil and butter. Add crackers and toss until well coated.

Oyster crackers tossed with butter and oil.

In a separate, small bowl combine brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder and salt.

Sprinkle seasoning mixture over crackers. Toss well to coat.

Oyster crackers tossed with bbq spice mix.

Spread crackers out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

BBQ spice-coated crackers on a sheet pan

Bake for 1 hour, tossing the crackers every 15 minutes.

Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Tips on BBQ Crackers

Can I use less butter and oil?

You can reduce the butter and oil amounts to 1 tablespoon EACH, however if you do that the spice mixture won’t stick to the crackers nearly as well.

Can I make these dairy free?

Yes! Use additional olive oil in place of the melted butter to keep this recipe dairy free.

Are these crackers spicy?

Not at all! If you want to make them spicy, add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the spice mix at the beginning.

How long will these crackers stay fresh?

Store BBQ crackers in an airtight container and they will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. This means they’re a fantastic make-ahead snack for your next gathering or just to have on hand for homemade happy hours.