Craving a snack that’s got a kick of flavor and an irresistible crunch? Look no further than homemade Old Bay Goldfish crackers! This simple, yet incredibly satisfying recipe transforms the beloved fish-shaped crackers into a gourmet treat seasoned with the iconic Chesapeake Bay blend. Perfect for afternoon munchies, party appetizers, or a unique addition to your favorite soups and salads, these Old Bay Goldfish are an absolute game-changer.
Easy Homemade Old Bay Goldfish Crackers: A Flavor Revelation
There’s something truly special about taking a familiar comfort food and elevating it with an unexpected twist. We’ve had a blast experimenting with snack transformations in the past, whipping up popular recipes like our zesty Alabama Fire Crackers, savory Ranch Oyster Crackers, fiery Spicy Buffalo Pretzels, and classic Ranch Pretzels. Each time, the goal is to enhance the snack experience, and these Old Bay Goldfish are no exception.
The inspiration for this particular recipe struck during a wonderful trip to southern Florida, where we were exploring the stunning National Parks for my husband’s website, Park Ranger John. While enjoying a delicious lunch at Nauti Parrot in Fort Myers – a restaurant perfectly named for its charming beach vibe – our conversation with an exceptional server turned to the versatile magic of Old Bay Seasoning.
We raved about the restaurant’s Old Bay French Fries (a recipe I’m definitely planning to recreate!), and our server enthusiastically confessed her love for sprinkling Old Bay on just about everything. This sparked an exciting back-and-forth about the endless culinary possibilities, and that’s when the idea of Old Bay Goldfish Crackers was born. The concept was simple yet brilliant: marry the satisfying crunch of Goldfish with the complex, savory, and slightly spicy notes of Old Bay.
Why Old Bay Goldfish Are a Must-Try Snack
The combination is nothing short of fantastic. The familiar, subtle flavor of original Goldfish Crackers provides the perfect canvas, allowing the unique 18 herbs and spices of Old Bay Seasoning to truly shine. While these crackers taste great with other Goldfish varieties like Cheddar Goldfish, using the original ensures the iconic Old Bay flavor is the star of the show. If you opt for cheddar, be prepared for its cheesy notes to mingle prominently with the seasoning.
Old Bay Seasoning is famously associated with seafood, particularly shrimp and crab, but its herbaceous and salty profile makes it incredibly versatile. This recipe is a testament to its ability to elevate everyday snacks far beyond the conventional. We’ve discovered that these Old Bay Goldfish Crackers are not just a seasonal delight; we enjoyed making and munching on them throughout the winter, proving they have year-round appeal. Their perfect kick of Old Bay makes them an ideal crunchable snack any time.
Interestingly, while researching this epic snack, I discovered that Pepperidge Farm once released a limited-edition Old Bay Seasoned Goldfish. This only confirmed that the flavor combination is a winner! If you missed out on that special release, or simply prefer the satisfaction of a homemade treat, this recipe allows you to create that distinct flavor whenever the craving strikes. I also recently spotted limited-edition Frank’s RedHot Goldfish, which might be my next snack experiment!
These seasoned crackers are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them by the handful as a standalone snack, crumble them over a bowl of hearty soup or creamy chowder, or even use them as a unique breading for chicken or fish for dinner. The possibilities are endless, and the bold flavor will keep you reaching for more.
Simple Ingredients for an Explosive Flavor
Creating these irresistible Old Bay Goldfish Crackers requires just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The magic happens when these simple components come together.
- Goldfish Crackers: While we prefer using original Pepperidge Farm Goldfish to let the Old Bay truly shine, feel free to experiment with other flavors like Cheddar Goldfish, Goldfish Colors, Tiny Goldfish, or Parmesan-flavored varieties for a different taste experience. The key is to choose a cracker that provides a good base for the seasoning.
- Old Bay Seasoning: The star of the show! We use classic Old Bay seasoning for its balanced blend of savory and spicy notes. If you’re a fan of extra heat, consider using Old Bay Hot Seasoning for an added kick. For those unfamiliar, Old Bay is a distinct spice blend originating from the Chesapeake Bay region, famous for flavoring seafood, especially crab and shrimp. It typically includes celery salt, paprika, red pepper, black pepper, and other secret spices that create its signature flavor. Its versatility extends far beyond seafood, making it perfect for snacks like these Goldfish crackers.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter acts as the perfect binding agent, ensuring the Old Bay seasoning adheres evenly to every cracker. It also adds a rich, savory depth and helps achieve that desirable crisp texture during baking. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall sodium content, especially since Old Bay seasoning already contains salt.
Optional additions: Feel free to customize your Old Bay Goldfish by adding a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired. These additional spices can complement the Old Bay beautifully.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
Making Old Bay Goldfish is not only easy but also requires minimal kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need for a smooth preparation process:
- Measuring Tools: Standard measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurate ingredient proportions, ensuring consistent flavor every time.
- Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting butter quickly and safely. Alternatively, a small saucepan can be used on the stovetop.
- Microwave Silicone Cover: A great accessory to prevent butter splatters when melting butter in the microwave. It keeps your microwave clean and your prep seamless.
- Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is highly recommended. It prevents the crackers from sticking, ensures even baking, and makes cleanup incredibly easy. Plus, you can use it to create a funnel to pour the finished crackers into a storage container.
- Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious mixing bowl is crucial for tossing the Goldfish crackers with the seasoned butter, ensuring every cracker gets an even coating of flavor. A glass batter bowl with a handle can be particularly helpful for stability and ease of mixing.
- Baking Sheets: Use baking sheets with raised sides to prevent the crackers from sliding off when you transfer them to and from the oven. This also helps contain any loose seasoning.
- Heat-Resistant Potholders: Always use reliable heat-resistant potholders when handling hot baking sheets from the oven to ensure safety in the kitchen.
How to Make Old Bay Goldfish Crackers
Making these flavorful Old Bay Goldfish Crackers is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius). This low temperature is key to infusing the crackers with flavor without burning them. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This preparation ensures you have everything ready for a smooth process.
Step 2: Create the Seasoned Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. You can do this in short increments in the microwave or gently over low heat on the stovetop until completely liquid. Once melted, stir in the Old Bay Seasoning until it is thoroughly combined with the butter. This creates a rich, aromatic mixture that will coat your crackers beautifully.
Step 3: Coat the Goldfish Crackers Evenly
To ensure every single Goldfish cracker is coated with that delicious Old Bay flavor, we’ll do this in two batches. Pour half of your Goldfish crackers into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle half of the seasoned butter mixture over them and gently stir until the crackers are evenly coated. Repeat this process with the remaining Goldfish crackers and the rest of the Old Bay butter mixture. This method prevents the crackers from clumping and ensures maximum flavor distribution.
Step 4: Bake for Flavor Infusion and Crispness
Spread the coated Goldfish crackers in a single layer on your parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they are evenly distributed. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to uneven baking. Bake the crackers in 10-15 minute increments, carefully tossing them after each interval to ensure uniform baking and even absorption of the butter and seasoning. The total baking time will be between 30 to 40 minutes. The low temperature allows the butter and seasoning to slowly infuse into the crackers, creating a deep, rich flavor and a perfectly crisp texture.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked to a golden crisp, remove the Old Bay Goldfish from the oven. Allow them to cool completely to room temperature on the baking sheet. This cooling process is crucial for them to achieve their ultimate crunch. Once cool, they are ready to be served and enjoyed!
Preparation and Storage Tips
These Old Bay Goldfish Crackers are fantastic for making ahead and storing, ensuring you always have a flavorful snack on hand.
Make Ahead & Storage: For optimal freshness and crispness, store your homemade Old Bay Goldfish in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag at room temperature. They will retain their delicious flavor and crunch for up to a week.
Freezing & Refrigeration: We do not recommend freezing or refrigerating these crackers. The moisture from thawing or cold storage can cause them to become soggy, losing their desirable crisp texture. They are best enjoyed at room temperature.
Recipe Variations and Dietary Adjustments
One of the best things about this Old Bay Goldfish recipe is how adaptable it is. Feel free to customize it to your taste or dietary needs.
Substitutions: While original Goldfish crackers are ideal for allowing the Old Bay flavor to shine, you can certainly use other flavored Goldfish if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that their inherent flavor will interact with the Old Bay. You can also experiment with other small, crunchy crackers like oyster crackers, mini pretzels, or even Cheez-Its for a different snack base.
Make It Spicy: The amount of Old Bay seasoning in the recipe provides a balanced flavor, but you can easily adjust it to your spice preference. Start with the recommended amount and increase it gradually on subsequent batches until you find your perfect level of kick. A dash of cayenne pepper can also be added for extra heat.
Vegetarian Option: This snack recipe is inherently vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat products.
Vegan Option: To make this recipe suitable for a vegan diet, two substitutions are needed. Replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Additionally, Goldfish crackers from Pepperidge Farm are not vegan, so you would need to substitute them with a plant-based cracker alternative. Old Bay seasoning itself is typically a spice blend and generally considered safe for plant-based diets, but always check the label to be sure.
Gluten-Free: Goldfish crackers are not gluten-free, and readily available gluten-free versions are rare. Gluten-free individuals would need to replace them with a certified gluten-free cracker alternative. Furthermore, while many spices are naturally gluten-free, Old Bay seasoning is not always labeled gluten-free. It’s crucial for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to use a certified gluten-free Old Bay alternative or create their own gluten-free spice blend to ensure the recipe remains safe.
Serving Size Adjustments: The written recipe yields six servings. If you need a different quantity, you can easily scale the ingredients up or down. Doubling the recipe works well for parties or larger gatherings.
Sugar-Free: The original recipe contains less than 1 gram of sugar per serving, making it an excellent choice for individuals following a sugar-free or low-sugar diet.
Tips for the Best Old Bay Goldfish Crackers
- Even Coating is Key: Take your time to ensure the butter and seasoning mixture thoroughly coats every cracker. This guarantees consistent flavor in every bite.
- Don’t Rush the Bake: The low and slow baking process is essential. It allows the flavors to meld and the crackers to become perfectly crisp without burning. Don’t be tempted to increase the oven temperature.
- Toss Regularly: Tossing the crackers every 10-15 minutes during baking helps them crisp up evenly and prevents any single cracker from becoming over-baked.
- Cool Completely: Patience is a virtue here! Letting the crackers cool fully to room temperature is vital for achieving that satisfying crunch.
- Gifting Idea: These seasoned crackers make a wonderful homemade gift, especially during the holidays or for a hostess present. Pack them in decorative jars or bags for a thoughtful treat.
What to Serve with Old Bay Goldfish Crackers
These beloved fish-shaped crackers, bursting with the bold flavor of Old Bay Seasoning, are incredibly versatile. They are perfect as a standalone snack, but they also complement a wide array of dishes and occasions.
Sides & Dips:
Pair these crunchy crackers with your favorite dips for an elevated snack experience. They are fantastic with:
- 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
Main Dishes & Soups:
Old Bay Goldfish make an excellent crouton alternative or a flavorful side for many main courses and soups:
- 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
Desserts & Drinks:
While not a direct pairing, here are some other delicious recipes from our collection to complete your meal or snack spread:
- 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
- Coke Slushie
- Kool-Aid Slushie
- Red Robin Freckled Lemonade
- Brazilian Lemonade
- Sonic Ocean Water
- CopyCat McDonald’s Sweet Tea
- Watermelon Agua Fresca
Occasions for Old Bay Goldfish Crackers
These versatile, flavorful crackers are perfect for almost any occasion where you need a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing snack:
- Everyday Snacking: Keep a batch on hand for satisfying those afternoon cravings.
- Lunchboxes: A fun and flavorful addition to packed lunches for kids and adults alike.
- Soup Night: A gourmet alternative to plain crackers or bread. They’re especially delightful crumbled into clam chowder!
- Family Gatherings & Potlucks: An easy-to-share appetizer that guests will rave about.
- Road Trip Snack: Perfectly portable and much more exciting than plain chips.
- Tailgating & Game Day Parties: A spicy, savory bite that pairs well with other game day favorites.
- Picnics & BBQs: Serve them as a unique side dish or alongside grilled meats.
- Movie Nights: A crunchy, seasoned alternative to popcorn.
- Beach Trips: A robust snack that holds up well for outdoor adventures.
More Delicious Recipe Collections
If you loved these Old Bay Goldfish, be sure to explore more of our fantastic recipe collections:
- 60+ Savory Snacks for Any Occasion
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Love finding new recipes? Check out our copycat recipes, dessert recipes, and our extensive collection of CrockPot Recipes.
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Old Bay Goldfish Crackers
Easy Old Bay Goldfish Crackers are the perfect spicy snack cracker that tastes amazing.
Ingredients
- 6.6 Ounce Goldfish Crackers (Original)
- 5 Tablespoons Butter (Melted)
- 1-2 Tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250 degrees, gather ingredients, and prep baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt butter in the microwave, stir to make sure it is completely melted.
- Add in Old Bay Seasoning to the melted butter and stir to combine.
- Pour ½ of the Goldfish Crackers into a bowl, top with half the butter mixture, stir to coat the crackers.
- Pour remaining crackers in the bowl and top with remaining Old Bay butter mixture. Stir to evenly coat.
- Spread coated crackers over the parchment paper and make sure they are evenly spread out.
- Bake in 10-15 minute increments stirring the Goldfish Crackers after every increment so they are evenly baked. Total bake time – 30-40 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature before enjoying.
Kitchen Tools
- Parchment Paper
- Cookie Sheets
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Microwave Cover
Nutrition Facts
Old Bay Goldfish Crackers
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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