Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are an iconic spicy snack that has developed a cult following since first being introduced by Frito-Lay in the early 1990s. With their bright red coating and bursts of heat, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos have become a staple junk food in many households and a go-to snack for spicy food aficionados. But what gives Flamin’ Hot Cheetos their signature fiery flavor? Read on to find out what kind of pepper is used to give Flamin’ Hot Cheetos their addictive kick.
The Origin of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos
Flamin’ Hot Cheetos first hit the market in 1992. According to Frito-Lay, a janitor named Richard Montañez who worked at their Rancho Cucamonga, California factory came up with the idea. Montañez was inspired by the spicy flavors of his Mexican heritage and thought the company needed a product that would appeal to spicy snack fans.
After getting buy-in from the CEO at the time, Montañez led the development of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos which were an instant success. Although urban legends have circulated that Montañez did not actually invent Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, Frito-Lay maintains that he was the mastermind behind one of their most famous products.
The Peppers Used in Flamin’ Hot Cheetos
When it comes to the peppers used to make Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, Frito-Lay is a bit secretive. They do not publish the exact recipe or pepper blend they use to create the signature spicy coating.
However, food experts have studied the flavor and spice profile of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and come to some conclusions about what’s inside. According to most accounts, there are two main peppers that give Flamin’ Hot Cheetos their heat:
- Red chili peppers
- De Arbol chili peppers
Red Chili Peppers
Red chili peppers are probably the main ingredient used in Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Red chilis include several varieties such as cayenne, red serrano, and red jalapeño peppers. They range from 2,500 to 10,000 on the Scoville scale, which measures the pungency or spicy heat of chili peppers. This means red chilis have a significant kick but are not face-meltingly hot.
Red chili peppers have a bright, acidic flavor that quickly build in heat. They provide a bold spiciness upfront followed by lingering warmth. This makes red chilis a good choice for giving Flamin’ Hot Cheetos their medium spicy flavor that appetizes without overpowering.
De Arbol Chili Peppers
De arbol chili peppers are also likely used in Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. These small tapered peppers are grown in Mexico and popular in authentic Mexican cuisine. They measure 15,000 to 30,000 on the Scoville scale, so they are significantly spicier than red chili peppers.
De arbol chilis have a rich and complex flavor described as earthy, nutty, and slightly smoky. Their heat builds slowly before exploding into scorching spice. Even a small amount of de arbol powder can bring intense heat. This pepper is likely used more sparingly in Flamin’ Hot Cheetos to amp up the spiciness and introduce another flavor dimension.
Other Potential Peppers in Flamin’ Hot Cheetos
In addition to red chili peppers and de arbol chilis, there has been speculation that other hot peppers may be used in Flamin’ Hot Cheetos as well. Some other possibilities include:
- Cayenne pepper
- Jalapeño pepper
- Serrano pepper
- Guajillo chili pepper
- Chipotle chili pepper
Frito-Lay has patented the powder blend used for Flamin’ Hot Cheetos which means it is some unique combination of hot chilis and spices. While red chili peppers and de arbol chilis seem to be the main components, Frito-Lay may incorporate some of these other peppers to create the perfect spicy flavoring.
How Flamin’ Hot Cheetos Are Made
While the full recipe and processing is a trade secret, here is some insight into how Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are made:
- First, corn is processed and cooked to make the puffed corn kernels that will form the Cheetos base.
- Next, the corn meal and water dough mixture is shaped into the recognizable Cheetos shape and quickly fried in oil.
- The Flamin’ Hot seasoning is made by finely grinding a blend of the chili peppers, spices, and other ingredients into a fine powder.
- The Flamin’ Hot powder is then dusted onto the freshly fried Cheetos so it sticks while still warm and tacky.
- Finally, the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are cooled, packaged, and shipped out to grocery stores and distributors.
The mixing and measurement of the proprietary chili pepper blend is critical to getting the signature Flamin’ Hot Cheetos flavor just right. Even the order the ingredients are added and how long the mixture is processed impacts the final pepper seasoning.
Comparison of Heat Between Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and Other Spicy Snacks
Flamin’ Hot Cheetos bring some heat, but how do they compare to other popular spicy snacks? Here is a spice showdown of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos vs. other well-known hot chips and snacks:
| Spicy Snack | Spiciness Rating (Scoville Scale) |
|---|---|
| Doritos Dinamita Chili Limón | 800 |
| Funyuns Onion Flavored Rings | 100 |
| Flamin’ Hot Cheetos | 2,500 |
| Hot and Spicy McChicken | 3,100 |
| Taco Bell Fire Sauce | 1,000-2,500 |
| Cholula Hot Sauce | 3,600 |
| Takis Fuego | 4,000 |
| Buffalo Wings in Hot Sauce | 5,000-10,000 |
| Flamin’ Hot Limón Cheetos | 6,000 |
| Blair’s Jalapeño Chips | 20,000-50,000 |
| One Chip Challenge | 135,600 |
As you can see, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos bring more heat than typical corn chips but are mild compared to extreme snack chips like the One Chip Challenge. The combination of peppers gives Flamin’ Hot Cheetos a pungency that’s addicting but not knock-your-socks-off fiery.
Health Concerns of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos
Flamin’ Hot Cheetos have come under fire for being an unhealthy snack choice. Here are some of the health and safety concerns that have been raised about Flamin’ Hot Cheetos:
- High sodium – A 1 oz serving contains 180 mg of sodium, which is considered high. Consuming too much sodium can increase risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.
- High fat – Flamin’ Hot Cheetos derive a lot of their flavor and mouthfeel from fat. The high fat content leads to increased calories and weight gain.
- Artificial colors – The signature red powder coating contains artificial coloring that has been linked to issues like hyperactivity in children.
- Gastrointestinal problems – Some consumers have reported stomach pains and indigestion from eating Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, likely due to the high fat content.
- Addictive – The combination of fat, salt, and spiciness may make Flamin’ Hot Cheetos addictive, causing overconsumption.
- Gastric issues – Hot peppers can potentially cause stomach irritation, heartburn, and other gastric discomfort in some individuals.
In moderation, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are not harmful. But regularly consuming large amounts may increase risk of nutritional, gastrointenstinal, and other health issues. Those sensitive to spicy foods may be more prone to discomfort after eating Flamin’ Hot Cheetos as well.
Alternatives to Flamin’ Hot Cheetos
For those looking to avoid the potential health pitfalls of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, there are some less detrimental spicy snacks that can satisfy the craving for heat. Here are some alternatives to consider:
Popchips Fiery Chili Limón Potato Chips
These crunchy potato chips are seasoned with a blend of spicy chili and tangy lime. They have 80% less fat than regular chips and are made with no artificial flavors or preservatives.
Good Health Veggie Sticks
Get your spicy fix from these crispy sticks made with real vegetables like potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes. They are fat-free and pack 4g of fiber per serving.
Beanitos Nacho Puffs
These puffs get their heat from jalapeño pepper and have 70% less fat than regular cheese puffs. They are made from navy beans and contain 5g of protein and 3g of fiber.
Que Pasa Tortilla Chips
These stone ground corn tortilla chips come in a Spicy Salsa flavor. They are made with just corn, canola oil, and chile powder.
Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Buffalo Wing
With the flavor of buffalo wings but in pretzel form, these crisps have only 110 calories per serving and no saturated fat or cholesterol.
FAQs
Are Flamin’ Hot Cheetos spicy?
Yes, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos have a distinct spicy flavor. They register around 2,500 on the Scoville scale which puts them in the middle on the spice spectrum. They offer a kick but are not extremely hot compared to other spicy snacks.
Why do Flamin’ Hot Cheetos turn your fingers red?
The red powder coating on Flamin’ Hot Cheetos contains artificial coloring that can temporarily dye fingers, lips, and tongues bright red when eaten. The dye stains the skin for a short time before washing off. The coloring they use is Red 40 Lake.
Are Flamin’ Hot Cheetos vegan?
No, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are not vegan. While the main ingredients like cornmeal, vegetable oil, and spices are vegan, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos also contain milk ingredients and artificial coloring made from animal sources.
Can you make homemade Flamin’ Hot Cheetos?
Yes, there are various homemade copycat recipes that attempt to replicate Flamin’ Hot Cheetos using spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and red food coloring. However, it is difficult to match the exact flavor and texture of the original.
Why are Flamin’ Hot Cheetos so addictive?
Experts speculate that the addictive nature of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos is due to the precise balance of fat, carbs, and salt combined with spicy flavorings and mouthfeel. This combination lights up the pleasure centers of the brain similar to other addictive foods.
Conclusion
When it comes to the peppers used in Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, all signs point to a proprietary blend of hot chilis like red pepper and de arbol likely mixed with other spices. This unique combo of heat and seasoning gives Flamin’ Hot Cheetos their addictive, fiery flavor. Just don’t overindulge, as too many Flamin’ Hot Cheetos could lead to health issues like stomach aches in addition to red fingers. For an occasional spicy indulgence though, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos give you a satisfying crunch and blast of heat. Their meteoric rise from humble beginnings to iconic snack food status proves their appealingly addictive flavor stands the test of time.
