The Cheez-It Cracker That's A Dupe For A Beloved Discontinued '90s Snack

Get ready to take a trip down memory lane with your taste buds because we have some exciting news for all you '90s kids out there. Remember Keebler Munch 'Ems, the irresistible bite-sized crackers that once dominated snack time? Ever since the brand discontinued them in the early 2000s, fans have searched for a replacement; and, according to Bustle, Cheez-It Snap'd crackers are here to fill that nostalgic void and satisfy your munchie cravings.

These crispy, cheesy bites are like the lovechild of a Cheez-It and a chip — light and airy but still packing that trademark Cheez-It flavor. And let's not forget their satisfying crunch, similar to what made Munch 'Ems so snack-worthy. Both cracker snacks boast a crispy texture, and Snap'd crackers also come in various flavors, including Double Cheese, Parmesan Ranch, and even Jalapeño Jack.

What's particularly interesting about the similarities between these two snacks, though, is the fact that Cheez-It was acquired by the Keebler Company in 1996. This means that, for four years, Munch 'Ems were made by the same company as Cheez-Its until they disappeared from shelves forever in 2000.

While they might not be the exact same, Cheez-It Snap'd crackers have proven to be a hit among snack enthusiasts since their release in January 2019, pleasing both die-hard fans of Keebler Munch 'Ems and new converts alike. Grab a handful of Cheez-It Snap'd crackers to celebrate the return of a favorite '90s snack — in a new form.

If you're in the market for a crunchy snack evocative of the era of scrunchies, Tamagotchis, and Keebler Munch 'Ems, try sampling some Snap'd crackers. The original crispy, crunchy treats were like a cross between a potato chip and a cracker. In fact, in one commercial from 1998, the slogan for Munch 'Em is that they were "crackers that crunch like chips." From tangy sour cream and onion to savory ranch and cheddar, there was a Munch 'Em for every palate.

But are the two snacks really that similar? The thing that was unique about Munch 'Ems was their shape. Thanks to their thin and crispy texture, they curled up on themselves when baked, forming perfect little pockets of crunchiness. Like Munch 'Ems, Cheez-It Snap'd crackers are also thin, baked crackers that offer a satisfying crunch like that of chips.

But what sets Snap'd crackers apart from their now-discontinued Keebler counterpart is their signature cheese flavor. They're cheesy and crispy and come in similar flavors, including Double Cheese, Cheddar Sour Cream & Onion, and Scorchin' Hot Cheddar. Interestingly, a commercial for Cheez-It Snap'd also positioned the cheezy baked snacks as an alternative to traditional potato chips, framing them as the perfect way to "save every sandwich from a boring bag of chips."

If you're feeling nostalgic for Keebler Munch 'Ems and Cheez-It Snap'd crackers just aren't cutting it for you, don't give up hope just yet, because the internet has more secrets to share. According to Reddit users and food bloggers, a handful of other snacks are reminiscent of the beloved '90s crackers.

One of the most popular Munch 'Ems dupes is the Cheez-It Grooves, especially the ranch flavor. Fans swear that the ridges on the Grooves provide the same crunchy texture and mouthfeel as Munch 'Ems, while the seasoning delivers the same tangy and garlicky flavor.

But ranch-flavored Grooves aren't the only alternative. Another option that comes highly recommended is Van's Natural Foods Gluten Free Crackers. Although gluten-free, these crackers are still crispy and buttery, with a satisfyingly savory taste similar to Munch 'Ems. And for those who are health-conscious, Van's crackers are made with whole grains and contain no artificial flavors or colors.

So, whether you're a die-hard fan of the Keebler Munch 'Ems or just someone who wants to relive the good old days, there are plenty of alternatives to try. Who knows, you might find a new favorite snack. Try them out, and let your tastebuds be the judge.