If you can melt butter and sprinkle seasoning, you've mastered this recipe.
Step 1: The Butter Bath.
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low-and-slow heat is the key to crisping without burning.
Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the crackers in a single, snug layer.
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter completely.
Step 2: The Seasoning Shower.
Using a pastry brush or a spoon, generously and evenly brush the melted butter over each cracker, ensuring the edges are covered.
Immediately, while the butter is still hot and sticky, sprinkle the Everything Bagel Seasoning evenly over every cracker. Don't be shy—press it down lightly if needed. If using, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 3: The Slow Crisp.
Bake for 20-25 minutes. The crackers will become deeply fragrant and turn a shade darker golden brown. They will crisp up as they cool.
Step 4: The Crucial Cool.
Let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet. They will crisp to perfection. Serve at room temperature.
Pro-Tips for Snack Supremacy
Low & Slow is Law: A higher temperature will burn the delicate seeds and garlic in the seasoning before the crackers crisp.
Even Coverage is Key: Get butter on every millimeter. This ensures the seasoning sticks and every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Make Your Own Seasoning: Combine 2 tbsp sesame seeds, 1 tbsp poppy seeds, 1 tbsp dried minced garlic, 1 tbsp dried minced onion, and 1 tsp flaky sea salt.
The Flavor Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne to the butter for heat, or swap the Parmesan for finely grated Asiago.
Double (or Triple) the Batch: Trust us. You'll need it.
Serving Your Irresistible Bits
These are the ultimate versatile snack.
The Party Platter: Pile them high in a bowl next to cheeses and dips.
The Soup's Best Friend: Crumble them over a creamy tomato bisque or broccoli cheddar soup instead of croutons.
The Charcuterie Game-Changer: They add a necessary crunchy, savory element to any cheese board.
Straight from the Pan: We won't tell.
Your Everything Bagel Bits Questions, Answered
Q: Can I use other crackers?
A: Ritz or similar buttery rounds work, but their curved shape makes even seasoning trickier. Avoid whole grain or seeded crackers, as they'll compete with the seasoning.
Q: How do I store them?
A: Once completely cool, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They lose their supreme crispness after that.
Q: Can I make these sweet?
A: For a sweet version, brush with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake as directed.
Q: Are they gluten-free?
A: Use your favorite certified gluten-free buttery cracker and ensure your everything seasoning is gluten-free.
This recipe is proof that the biggest flavors often come from the simplest ideas. It’s a snack that looks unassuming but delivers an unforgettable punch. It’s the kind of thing that makes people believe you’re a kitchen genius, when all you did was melt butter and sprinkle some magic.
So grab that sleeve of crackers. Your new signature snack is 25 minutes away.
