Flamin’ Hot Chipotle Ranch Cheetos: Do we need a new Cheetos flavor?

Search the store shelves. New Flamin’ Hot Chipotle Ranch Cheetos are here. But, do you want to eat them?

At the recent Sweets and Snack Expo in Chicago, Cheetos debuted the new flavor, Flamin’ Hot Chipotle Ranch Cheetos. Another twist on the classic Cheetos hit the store shelves ahead of schedule. Originally scheduled for a late summer release, these new Cheetos are popping up everywhere.

Instagrammers, bloggers and other news media report that these new Cheetos are available at many big box stores. After looking at the Frito Lay website, the company doesn’t have this new flavor listed. I haven’t seen them at any of my local stores. Still, an Instagram search shows many Cheetos fans sharing their big find.

During SSE 17, I was able to taste this new Cheetos flavor. Personally, I prefer classic, regular crunchy Cheetos. The new Cheetos are a blend of smoky heat with a sweet ranch flavor. The heat, like other Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, is predominant. The ranch just makes it a little less hot and more balanced.

Like any of the flamin’ Cheetos, make sure that you have napkins. The dark red coloring will get all over your hands. I won’t judge if you lick your fingers clean.

Did Cheetos need this new flavor combination? Probably not. So many people love the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Right now, Cheetos has more than 10 versions of the snack. Crunchy, puffy, flamin’ hot, cheddar jalapeno and even more. Granted, some flavors are limited release.

Still, do we need all the new spicy variations? Aren’t regular Cheetos still tasty?

The new Cheetos flavor was just one of many spicy offerings at SSE 17. Previously, everyone was talking about the spicy Skittles and Starbursts. Other candy manufactures make spicy candies, too. WarHeads, Mike & Ike and many chocolate companies all use heat in their candy.

Consumers are more accepting of new flavors. International flavors, spices and foods are everywhere. Years ago people were scared of a habanero’s heat, but now they seek out a ghost pepper. Sriracha is now a standard condiment on a restaurant table. Preferences and palates change. This new Cheetos flavor is just another example of change.

Next: Spicy Skittles to hit store shelves

Should you go try the new Flamin’ Hot Chipotle Ranch Cheetos? It’s worth the $2 to say that you’ve tried the fad of the week.