Get ready to transform your snack game with an unbelievably addictive treat: Homemade Old Bay Goldfish Crackers. Move over plain old crackers; these crispy, fish-shaped delights are coated in a savory, zesty Old Bay seasoning blend and baked to perfection. They offer an irresistible crunch and a burst of unique flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking a quick afternoon pick-me-up, a standout party appetizer, or a flavorful addition to your favorite soups and salads, these Old Bay Goldfish are guaranteed to become your new favorite go-to snack. They’re incredibly easy to make, calling for just a few simple ingredients, yet they deliver a complex taste experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Easy Old Bay Goldfish Crackers: A Flavorful Snack Transformation
There’s something truly satisfying about taking ordinary snack foods and infusing them with extraordinary flavor. It’s a culinary adventure we deeply enjoy, turning familiar favorites into exciting new experiences. We’ve experimented with various crackers and pretzels, creating hits like Alabama Fire Crackers, savory Ranch Oyster Crackers, bold Spicy Buffalo Pretzels, and classic Ranch Pretzels. Each recipe aims to elevate the snacking experience with minimal effort and maximum taste, and these Old Bay Goldfish Crackers are no exception.
The inspiration for this particular recipe struck during a memorable trip to southern Florida. My husband, John, was visiting National Parks for his website, Park Ranger John, and we found ourselves in Fort Myers. We stopped for lunch at a delightful beach-vibe restaurant named Nauti Parrot, a name perfectly fitting for its vibrant Florida setting. Our server, whose enthusiasm for food was infectious, ended up being a fantastic conversationalist during our meal. We got chatting about creative and unconventional uses for Old Bay Seasoning. The restaurant itself served Old Bay French Fries, which immediately piqued our interest and landed on our “must-make” list for future culinary experiments.
Our server proudly declared her love for Old Bay, admitting she put it on “everything.” This sparked an enthusiastic back-and-forth between us, brainstorming the endless possibilities for this iconic spice blend. It was during this lively discussion that the idea of combining the crunchy, familiar texture of Goldfish Crackers with the complex, aromatic profile of Old Bay Seasoning was born. The concept was simple yet brilliant, promising a flavor combination we couldn’t wait to try.
The marriage of crispy Goldfish crackers with Old Bay’s signature blend of 18 herbs and spices is nothing short of fantastic. For our initial batch, we opted for original Goldfish Crackers. Their mild flavor profile acts as the perfect canvas, allowing the bold, distinctive taste of Old Bay seasoning to truly shine through without competition. While these Old Bay Goldfish also taste great with cheddar Goldfish, be aware that the sharp cheddar flavor will certainly make its presence known, adding another layer to the spice but potentially overshadowing the Old Bay a little. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
What truly excites us about Old Bay Seasoning is its incredible versatility beyond the seafood it’s most famous for. We’ve always used it on shrimp, crab, and other seafood dishes, but this experience opened up a whole new world of ideas. These Old Bay Goldfish Crackers quickly cemented themselves as the perfect summer snack – or, let’s be honest, any-season snack! We first made them during the winter, and they were an instant hit, providing that delightful kick of Old Bay on a perfectly crunchable Goldfish cracker. They’re a testament to how a simple seasoning can elevate an everyday item into something truly special.
Beyond being a fantastic standalone snack, these seasoned crackers are incredibly versatile. They make an excellent addition to a warm bowl of soup or hearty chowder, adding both texture and a burst of flavor. You can even crumble them up to create a unique breading for chicken or fish for dinner, adding a gourmet touch to your meals. Their potential is limited only by your imagination.
After creating this epic snack, a little research revealed that we weren’t the only ones to think of this magical pairing. There was once a limited-edition Old Bay Seasoned Goldfish, available only for a short time – proving the demand for this flavor combination! This only solidified our belief that we were onto something truly delicious. I also recently spotted a limited-edition Frank’s RedHot Goldfish, which has certainly given me ideas for my next spicy cracker creation!
Mastering the Art of Old Bay Goldfish: Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these incredibly flavorful Old Bay Goldfish Crackers requires only a handful of common ingredients, proving that deliciousness doesn’t have to be complicated. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the bold flavors to shine through with minimal fuss. Here’s a detailed look at the simple components that come together to create this epic snack. Specific measurements and step-by-step instructions are provided in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Goldfish Crackers
- Old Bay Seasoning
- Unsalted Butter
Goldfish Crackers: The Perfect Canvas
For the truest Old Bay experience, we highly recommend using original Pepperidge Farm Goldfish crackers. Their classic, mild, and slightly salty flavor provides a neutral base that truly allows the Old Bay to take center stage. However, don’t hesitate to get creative! You can easily experiment with other Goldfish flavors. Cheddar Goldfish will add a cheesy dimension, though as mentioned, it will compete with the Old Bay flavor. Goldfish Colors, tiny Goldfish, or even Parmesan-flavored Goldfish could offer interesting twists. The key is to select a variety that complements or allows the Old Bay to shine according to your preference.
Classic Old Bay Seasoning: The Star Spice Blend
The heart and soul of this recipe is Classic Old Bay Seasoning. Its unique blend of spices creates a savory, slightly spicy, and deeply aromatic profile that is instantly recognizable and incredibly addictive. While we use the original blend, if you crave more heat, feel free to try the Old Bay hot seasoning for an extra kick.
For those unfamiliar, Old Bay Seasoning is a renowned American spice blend that originated in the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland. It’s historically famous for flavoring seafood, particularly crabs and shrimp, becoming a culinary icon in the Mid-Atlantic. The proprietary spice mix typically includes celery salt, paprika, black pepper, red pepper, and a secret blend of other spices, giving it its distinctive, complex flavor.
Unsalted Butter: The Flavor Carrier
Unsalted butter serves a crucial dual purpose in this recipe: it binds the Old Bay seasoning to the Goldfish crackers and provides a rich, savory base that enhances the overall flavor. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the total sodium content, especially since Old Bay seasoning already contains celery salt. Melted butter ensures an even coating, distributing the spice blend uniformly over every cracker for a consistent taste in every bite.
Optional Enhancements
While the core three ingredients deliver exceptional results, you can customize your Old Bay Goldfish to your liking. Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder for an extra savory depth, or a dash of onion powder. If you enjoy a smoky flavor, a tiny amount of smoked paprika could be a delightful addition. Always feel free to experiment with other spices you enjoy to tailor the crackers to your personal taste preferences.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Easy Preparation
Making Old Bay Goldfish Crackers is a straightforward process, and having the right tools on hand will make it even smoother. You likely already have most of these items in your kitchen, but we’ve highlighted a few favorites that truly make a difference in convenience and success:
- Measuring Tools: Standard measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurate ingredient proportions, ensuring your Goldfish are perfectly seasoned every time.
- Microwave Safe Bowl: You’ll need this for melting the butter quickly and efficiently.
- Microwave Silicone Cover: This is a game-changer! We swear by these lid covers to prevent butter splatters when melting butter in the microwave. After far too many “butter explosions” while baking, these covers have saved our microwave from countless messy cleanups. They keep the butter neatly in the bowl and off the microwave roof.
- Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper is incredibly helpful. It prevents the crackers from sticking, ensures easy cleanup, and allows for a seamless transfer from the baking sheet to your serving bowl or storage container. You can simply lift the parchment paper by its sides and funnel the finished Goldfish crackers right where you want them.
- Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious mixing bowl is crucial for tossing the Goldfish crackers with the seasoned butter. This ensures every cracker gets an even coating of flavor. We’re big fans of glass batter bowls with handles, as they provide stability on the counter and make mixing easier.
- Baking Sheets with Sides: These are ideal for baking the crackers. The raised edges ensure that no precious Goldfish escape the pan while baking or when you’re taking them out of the oven.
- Heat-Resistant Potholders: Safety first! We strongly recommend using heat-resistant potholders. After a scary incident where a cloth potholder caught fire on an accidentally turned-on burner, we exclusively use silicone or other heat-resistant options. They offer superior protection and peace of mind.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Old Bay Goldfish Crackers
Making these Old Bay Goldfish Crackers is remarkably simple and yields incredibly satisfying results. Follow these clear, detailed steps to ensure your seasoned crackers come out perfectly golden and bursting with flavor. The complete recipe card with specific measurements can be found at the end of this post.
- Prepare Your Workspace: First, begin by preheating your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120°C). While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This parchment paper is key for preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze.
- Melt the Butter: Place your unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in the microwave in short increments (e.g., 30 seconds), stirring after each, until it is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the butter gently on the stovetop in a small saucepan.
- Infuse with Old Bay: Once the butter is fully melted, add the Old Bay Seasoning directly into the melted butter. Stir thoroughly until the seasoning is completely incorporated, creating a fragrant, seasoned butter mixture.
- First Coating: Pour approximately half of your Goldfish crackers into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle half of the Old Bay seasoned butter mixture evenly over these crackers. Gently stir and toss the crackers with a spatula or spoon, ensuring they are thoroughly coated with the butter and seasoning. This initial coating helps distribute the flavor more effectively.
- Second Coating: Add the remaining Goldfish crackers to the bowl. Pour the rest of the Old Bay butter mixture over them. Continue to stir and toss vigorously until all the crackers are uniformly coated. Take your time with this step to ensure every single fish-shaped cracker is seasoned for maximum flavor.
- Spread and Bake: Transfer the coated Goldfish crackers onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread them out into a single, even layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this helps them bake evenly and achieve that perfect crispness.
- Low and Slow Bake: Bake the crackers in your preheated oven at 250°F (120°C). The low temperature allows the butter and seasoning to slowly infuse into the crackers, coating them with all that flavorful goodness without burning. Bake in increments of 10-15 minutes, making sure to toss the crackers gently after each increment. This crucial step ensures they bake evenly and get crispy on all sides. The total bake time will typically be between 30-40 minutes, depending on your oven. They should be fragrant and lightly golden.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the Goldfish crackers from the oven. Let them cool completely to room temperature on the baking sheet. As they cool, they will crisp up even further. Once cooled, they are ready to be served and enjoyed!
Pro Tips for Perfectly Seasoned Goldfish
Achieving the best Old Bay Goldfish Crackers is easy, especially with a few expert tips in mind. These pointers will help you get that perfect crunch and irresistible flavor every time:
- Even Coating is Key: Don’t rush the mixing process. Ensure every single Goldfish cracker is thoroughly coated with the butter and Old Bay mixture. This guarantees a consistent flavor in every bite.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the crackers in a single layer on your baking sheet. If they are piled up, they will steam instead of crisp, resulting in a less desirable texture. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Frequent Tossing: Stirring the crackers every 10-15 minutes during baking is vital. This prevents them from sticking to the parchment paper, promotes even toasting, and ensures all sides get properly infused with the seasoning.
- Low Temperature, Great Flavor: Baking at a low temperature (250°F) is intentional. It allows the butter and seasoning to slowly absorb into the crackers, intensifying the flavor without burning them. Resist the urge to turn up the heat!
- Cool Completely for Crispness: Patience is a virtue here! Allow the Old Bay Goldfish to cool completely to room temperature before serving or storing. This cooling period is essential for them to firm up and achieve their maximum crispiness.
- Adjust Spiciness to Taste: Old Bay seasoning can vary in intensity depending on your palate. The first time you make these, you might find them super spicy if you add too much. Start with the recommended amount (1 tablespoon) and taste a cooled cracker before adding more. You can always add a bit more Old Bay after baking if you want to intensify the flavor.
- Perfect for Gifting: These seasoned crackers make fantastic homemade gifts, especially during holidays or as a thoughtful gesture. Package them in decorative airtight containers or festive baggies for a unique and delicious present.
Storage and Preparation Insights
Proper storage is essential to keep your Old Bay Goldfish Crackers fresh and crunchy, ensuring they maintain their irresistible appeal for as long as possible.
Make Ahead & Storage
These Old Bay Goldfish Crackers are perfect for making ahead of time, especially if you’re preparing for a party or need snacks for the week. Once they have completely cooled to room temperature, store them in an airtight container or a heavy-duty Ziploc bag at room temperature. Kept in a cool, dry place, they will remain fresh and delightfully crisp for up to 1-2 weeks. Avoid storing them in humid environments, which can cause them to lose their crunch.
Freezing/How to Freeze
We do not recommend freezing or refrigerating your Old Bay Goldfish Crackers. The moisture from freezing and thawing will inevitably turn them soggy, losing their signature crisp texture, which is a key part of their appeal. They are best enjoyed at room temperature, straight from the oven (after cooling!) or from an airtight container.
Dietary Adaptations for Everyone
One of the great things about this recipe is its adaptability. With a few simple substitutions, you can easily modify these Old Bay Goldfish Crackers to suit various dietary needs and preferences.
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
This snack recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly, as all primary ingredients (Goldfish crackers, butter, Old Bay seasoning) are vegetarian. For a vegan option, you will need to make two key substitutions:
- Butter: Replace traditional dairy butter with a high-quality plant-based butter alternative. Ensure it melts well and has a neutral or complementary flavor.
- Goldfish Crackers: Standard Pepperidge Farm Goldfish crackers contain dairy (milk). As of writing, Pepperidge Farm does not offer a widely available vegan variety. Therefore, vegans will need to replace Goldfish with a plant-based cracker alternative that is similar in size and crunch. Look for small, fish-shaped or other novelty crackers made without animal products.
- Old Bay Seasoning: Old Bay seasoning is purely a spice blend, typically made from herbs and spices, making it safe for plant-based dining.
Gluten-Free Considerations
For those following a gluten-free diet, adjustments are necessary as traditional Goldfish crackers are made with wheat flour and are not gluten-free.
- Goldfish Crackers: You will need to replace standard Goldfish crackers with a gluten-free cracker alternative. Look for small, savory gluten-free crackers that can hold up to the seasoning and baking process.
- Old Bay Seasoning: While many individual spices are naturally gluten-free, Old Bay seasoning is not explicitly labeled gluten-free by the manufacturer. This is often due to shared processing facilities or the potential for cross-contamination. Gluten-free eaters should either opt for an Old Bay alternative that is certified or labeled gluten-free, or create their own gluten-free spice blend mimicking Old Bay’s flavor profile (e.g., celery salt, paprika, black pepper, red pepper, and other safe spices). Always check ingredient labels carefully to ensure the recipe remains safe for a gluten-free diet.
Adjusting for Spice Levels and Sugar Content
Make it Spicy: The beauty of homemade snacks is customization! If you love heat, you can increase the amount of Old Bay seasoning, or even use the “hot” version of Old Bay. However, proceed with caution and experiment with amounts until you find your perfect level. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away! A batch that’s too spicy can still be enjoyed when paired with a mild soup or dip, which helps to balance the flavors.
Sugar-Free: The written recipe contains a negligible amount of sugar (under 1 gram per serving), making it an excellent snack option for those following sugar-free or low-sugar diets.
Serving Suggestions: When and How to Enjoy Your Old Bay Goldfish
Our beloved fish-shaped crackers, now infused with the bold, iconic flavor of Old Bay Signature Blend Seasoning, are incredibly versatile. They are perfect for virtually any snack time, meal accompaniment, or social gathering. Here are some fantastic ideas for when and how to enjoy your Old Bay Goldfish Crackers:
- Stand-Alone Snack: A handful of these crispy, spicy crackers is the ultimate satisfying snack any time of day.
- Soup & Chowder Topping: Sprinkle them generously on top of creamy tomato soup, hearty clam chowder, or any of your favorite comfort soups for an added crunch and savory depth.
- Salad Croutons: Crumbled or whole, they make an amazing, flavorful alternative to traditional croutons on salads, adding a unique zesty kick.
- Dinner Side or Garnish: Serve them alongside your next summer BBQ platter, or use them as a creative garnish for seafood dishes, grilled chicken, or even pasta salads.
- Breading for Protein: Crush them finely and use them as a flavorful breading for baked or fried chicken, fish fillets, or even shrimp.
- Party Appetizer: Present them in a decorative bowl at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. They’re sure to be a conversation starter and a crowd-pleaser.
- Road Trip Snack: Pack them in a baggie for an on-the-go snack that’s far more exciting than plain crackers.
- Tailgating Parties: A perfect addition to your game day spread, offering a unique flavor that stands out.
- Picnics: Easy to transport and universally loved, they’re a fantastic crunchy element for any outdoor meal.
- Anytime Snack: Let’s be real – anytime you crave that bold, savory, slightly spicy flavor, these Goldfish are the answer!
To further enhance your snack spread, consider pairing your Old Bay Goldfish with some fantastic dips and other dishes:
Delicious Dips & Sides: 3 Ingredient Velveeta Rotel Dip with Ground Beef, 3 Ingredient Potato Chip Dip, BLT Dip, Easy Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip, Black Bean Salsa, 7 Layer Taco Dip, Knorr Spinach Dip, CrockPot Reuben Dip, Tequila Spiked Guacamole, Greek Goddess Appetizer
Hearty Main Dishes: CrockPot Sausage Sauerkraut Soup, CrockPot Ham & Potato Soup, Carrot Ginger Soup, CrockPot Zuppa Toscana Olive Garden Soup, CrockPot Chicken Enchilada Soup, CrockPot Gumbo, CrockPot Turkey & Wild Rice Soup, CrockPot Stuffed Pepper Soup
Sweet Endings: Red Velvet Brownies, Chocolate Coconut 5 Layer Bars, CrockPot Mixed Berry Cobbler, Black Bean Brownies, Easy Homemade Banana Bread, Salty & Sweet Ruffles Marshmallow Treats, Peanut Butter Bacon Cookies, Molasses Cookies
Refreshing Drinks: Coke Slushie, Kool-Aid Slushie, Red Robin Freckled Lemonade, Brazilian Lemonade, Sonic Ocean Water, CopyCat McDonald’s Sweet Tea, Watermelon Agua Fresca
Explore More Flavorful Snack Recipes
If you loved creating these Old Bay Goldfish, you’re in for a treat! We have a treasure trove of other easy and delicious recipes that will inspire your next culinary adventure. Check out some of our popular recipe collections:
- 60+ Savory Snacks for Any Occasion
- 30+ Road Trip Snacks (Easy and Affordable)
- Easy 3 Ingredient Recipes That Taste Amazing!
- 30+ Easy Sides for Soup
- 30+ Delicious Sides for Chili!
Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to explore our copycat recipes, irresistible dessert recipes, and our convenient CrockPot Recipes for more inspiration.
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Printable Recipe Card: Old Bay Goldfish Crackers
Old Bay Goldfish Crackers
Easy Old Bay Goldfish Crackers are the perfect spicy snack cracker that tastes amazing and is incredibly simple to make.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 231 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 6.6 Ounce Original Goldfish Crackers
- 5 Tablespoons Melted Unsalted Butter
- 1-2 Tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250 degrees F (120°C). Gather all ingredients and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl (or on the stovetop). Stir to ensure it is completely melted and smooth.
- Add Old Bay Seasoning to the melted butter and stir vigorously to combine thoroughly.
- Pour ½ of the Goldfish Crackers into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle half of the seasoned butter mixture over them and stir to coat the crackers evenly.
- Pour the remaining crackers into the bowl and top with the rest of the Old Bay butter mixture. Stir again until all crackers are uniformly coated.
- Spread the coated crackers over the parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single, even layer to prevent overcrowding.
- Bake in 10-15 minute increments, stirring the Goldfish Crackers gently after each increment to ensure even baking and crispness. Total bake time will be approximately 30-40 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely to room temperature before serving or storing. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispness.
Kitchen Tools
- Parchment Paper
- Baking Sheets with Sides
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Microwave Cover (optional, but recommended for mess-free melting)
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- Heat-Resistant Potholders
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 135
