Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos Recipe

Few snacks can rival the nostalgic crunch and tangy flavor of Cool Ranch Doritos. They’re the kind of chips that disappear as soon as the bag is opened. But what if I told you that you could recreate that irresistible flavor right in your kitchen? Making homemade Cool Ranch Doritos is not only fun but also a great way to control the ingredients and tailor the taste to your preference.

This blog will guide you through crafting the perfect Doritos Cool Ranch seasoning and transforming plain tortillas into flavorful chips that rival the original.

The Allure of Cool Ranch Doritos

Cool Ranch Doritos have a signature flavor that’s hard to replicate. The blend of tangy ranch, savory spices, and a hint of sweetness creates an addictive combination. Growing up, they were my go-to snack for movie nights or after-school munchies.

Fast forward to today, and I’ve discovered the joy of recreating this iconic snack at home. Trust me, once you’ve tasted homemade Cool Ranch Doritos, you’ll never look at store-bought chips the same way.

What You Need to Make Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos

To make these chips, you’ll need two main components: the tortilla base and the Cool Ranch seasoning.

Tortilla Base:

• 10 small corn tortillas (preferably fresh)
• Vegetable oil (for frying or baking)

Cool Ranch Doritos Seasoning:

• 1 tablespoon powdered buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried dill
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos

1. Prepare the Tortilla Chips

Start by slicing the tortillas into chip-sized triangles. A pizza cutter works wonders for this. If you prefer a uniform look, stack the tortillas and cut them together.

• For Fried Chips: Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry the tortilla triangles in small batches, flipping occasionally until golden and crispy (about 2-3 minutes). Remove and drain on a paper towel.
• For Baked Chips: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the tortilla triangles in a single layer on a baking sheet. Lightly brush them with oil and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp.

2. Make the Cool Ranch Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients. The powdered buttermilk is the star here, giving the mix its tangy ranch flavor. If you don’t have powdered buttermilk, powdered milk with a dash of lemon juice can work as a substitute.

3. Season the Chips

While the chips are still warm, place them in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the Cool Ranch seasoning generously over the chips and toss gently to coat evenly. The warmth helps the seasoning stick better, so don’t wait too long.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your seasoned chips to a serving bowl and dig in! Store any leftovers (if there are any) in an airtight container for up to a week.

How to Make Perfect Cool Ranch Doritos Every Time

• Customize the Flavor: Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more cayenne for heat, or a pinch of sugar for extra sweetness.
• Experiment with Tortillas: Try using flour tortillas for a different texture, or opt for flavored tortillas to add depth.
• Make it Vegan: Use a plant-based powdered milk alternative to create a vegan-friendly version.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos

Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos aren’t just a snack; they’re versatile. Here are some ideas to take them beyond the snack bowl:

1. Nachos Supreme: Layer your homemade chips with melted cheese, guacamole, and salsa for an irresistible nacho platter.
2. Crunchy Toppings: Crush the chips and use them as a topping for soups, salads, or casseroles.
3. Party Mix: Combine your Cool Ranch chips with pretzels, nuts, and popcorn for a DIY snack mix.

Conclusion

Making your own homemade Cool Ranch Doritos is an enjoyable and rewarding process. Not only do you get to control the ingredients, but you also get to savor the satisfaction of recreating a beloved snack from scratch. Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with friends, these chips are sure to be a hit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I store the Cool Ranch seasoning for later?

Yes! Make a larger batch and store it in an airtight container for up to three months. It’s also great for sprinkling on popcorn or roasted vegetables.

2. Do I have to fry the tortilla chips?

Not at all. Baking is a healthier alternative and still yields crispy chips. Just make sure to brush the tortillas lightly with oil to achieve that signature crunch.

3. What’s the purpose of powdered buttermilk?

Powdered buttermilk provides the tangy flavor that defines Cool Ranch seasoning. It’s a must-have ingredient for authenticity.

4. Can I use store-bought chips?

Of course! If you’re short on time, simply sprinkle the Cool Ranch seasoning on plain store-bought tortilla chips.

5. Are these chips gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use corn tortillas. Always check the packaging to ensure there are no added gluten-containing ingredients.

Mason Williams

A seasoned chef with over 10 years of experience in New York. I passionately share my journey and healthy, flavorful recipes online.