Name: Smoked BBQ Firecrackers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 bag (9 oz) oyster crackers; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons BBQ seasoning (your favorite blend); 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional for garnish); Special Tools:; Smoker or baking sheet (if using the oven); Large mixing bowl; Resealable bag or airtight container (for storage); Parchment paper or non-stick foil (for easier cleanup)

Smoked BBQ Firecrackers

Some recipes come into your life quietly and then completely take over—and that’s exactly what happened with these Smoked BBQ Firecrackers. It all started when I was trying to find a quick and flavorful snack to serve on game night. I didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, but I still wanted something bold, smoky, and just plain addictive. These firecrackers checked all the boxes—crispy, buttery, with that perfect BBQ kick—and they’ve been on repeat ever since.

I whipped up a batch with some oyster crackers I had in the pantry, tossed them in a buttery BBQ spice mix, and popped them in the smoker. The whole house smelled like a backyard cookout, and before I knew it, the kids were grabbing handfuls, my husband claimed the bowl as “his,” and the batch I made was gone before halftime. The smoky flavor combined with the sweet, savory, and slightly spicy seasoning just hits every craving at once.

They’re now a must-have at every gathering—from after-school snacks to backyard barbecues and even as fun little hostess gifts packed in jars. And the best part? They’re ridiculously easy to make with ingredients you probably already have. I’ve made them dozens of times, and they never fail to impress. If you’re looking for a new go-to snack that’s bursting with flavor and impossible to resist, these firecrackers are going to become your newest obsession.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I make these without a smoker?
Yes! If you don’t have a smoker, you can bake them in the oven at a low temperature for a similar result. They won’t have the same smoky depth, but they’ll still be delicious.

How long do Smoked BBQ Firecrackers stay fresh?
They stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container. Just be sure they’ve cooled completely before sealing them.

Can I use a different type of cracker?
Absolutely. Oyster crackers are perfect because of their size and crunch, but mini saltines or even cheese crackers work well too.

Are they spicy?
They have a mild kick, but you can easily adjust the heat. Add more cayenne if you like it spicy or skip it for a milder version.

Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes! In fact, they taste even better the next day once the flavors have had time to develop.

What You Need to Make Smoked BBQ Firecrackers

Ingredients:

1 bag (9 oz) oyster crackers

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons BBQ seasoning (your favorite blend)

1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional for garnish)

Special Tools:

Smoker or baking sheet (if using the oven)

Large mixing bowl

Resealable bag or airtight container (for storage)

Parchment paper or non-stick foil (for easier cleanup)

How to Make Smoked BBQ Firecrackers

Preheat your smoker to 225°F. If using an oven, preheat to 250°F.

Combine the flavor mix by whisking together the melted butter, BBQ seasoning, ranch mix, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, and brown sugar in a large bowl.

Toss the crackers into the bowl and stir gently until every cracker is evenly coated in that buttery spice goodness.

Spread the crackers out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or grill-safe tray.

Smoke or bake for 30–45 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Keep an eye out so they don’t over-brown.

Let them cool completely before serving or storing. The flavors deepen as they sit!

Optional garnish: Sprinkle with dried parsley once cooled for a pop of color.

Tips for Making the Best Smoked BBQ Firecrackers

Don’t skip the butter—it helps the seasoning stick and gives the crackers their irresistible crunch.

Use a mild BBQ rub if you’re serving kids or guests who prefer less heat.

Try different seasonings like Cajun or taco spice for fun variations.

Double the batch—you’ll wish you had more once the first bowl disappears.

Make them a gift! Pack them in small mason jars tied with ribbon for easy, homemade gifts.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So easy and so addictive! I made a batch for a BBQ, and they disappeared in minutes. Definitely making a double batch next time!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great flavor and perfect crunch. I didn’t have a smoker, so I used the oven and it still turned out amazing!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These have become our go-to snack during movie night. Even the picky eaters in the house love them!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Good flavor but I wish they were spicier. I’ll add more cayenne next time for a little more heat.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I made these for a party and everyone kept asking for the recipe. A huge hit with both adults and kids!”

Printable Recipe

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