How Hot Are XXTRA Hot Cheetos on the Scoville Scale? | Food & Kitchen (2024)

XXTRA Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are the spicier cousin of the well-known Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, a popular snack product manufactured by Frito-Lay. Let’s delve into everything there is to know about this fiery treat.

Originally, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos were developed by Richard Montañez, a Frito-Lay janitor who pitched the idea after experimenting with spices at home. The idea became a sensation. Riding the success wave, the company decided to take the heat a notch higher, leading to the birth of XXTRA Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.

How Hot Are XXTRA Hot Cheetos on the Scoville Scale?

XXTRA Hot Cheetos has around 35,000 Scoville units (SCU). Usually, Cheetos have 500 to 50,000 SCU. XXTRA Flamin’ Hot Cheetos deliver a powerful and lingering spicy kick, underscored by a tangy, cheesy undertone.

XXTRA Flamin’ Hot Cheetos have a very pronounced spicy flavor that sets them apart from the regular Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Here’s a brief description:

Taste & Texture:

Upon the first bite, there’s an immediate, intense burst of heat, much more pronounced than the original variant. This spiciness accompanies the signature tangy, slightly cheesy taste many associate with Cheetos. After the initial fiery kick, there’s a savory note, similar to roasted red peppers, with a hint of smokiness. The spiciness lingers, and for those not accustomed to spicy foods, it might even induce some sweating or a need for a drink. The cheesiness of the original Cheeto is present but somewhat overshadowed by the intense spiciness of the XXTRA Flamin’ Hot variant.

While they share the same foundation, the XXTRA variant is notably spicier than its predecessor. Beyond the immediate fiery burst, there’s an underlying tangy, cheesy flavor, albeit slightly overshadowed by the intense heat. The texture remains the same—crispy and crunchy, characteristic of Cheetos.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients include enriched cornmeal, vegetable oil, and the Flamin’ Hot seasoning. Things differ in this seasoning, with the XXTRA version having more spicy ingredients. Like many snacks, it contains additives like monosodium glutamate (MSG), artificial colors, and preservatives.

Popularity & Controversy

XXTRA Flamin’ Hot Cheetos have garnered a massive following, particularly among younger generations and spice enthusiasts. They’ve been featured in social media challenges, and some schools have even banned them due to their intense flavor and potential health concerns. Overindulgence has occasionally led individuals to visit the ER, mistaking the red dye in their stools for blood.

Nutritional Concerns

Like many processed snacks, moderation is key. High in sodium and fat, they aren’t exceptionally nutritious. Regular overconsumption can lead to potential health concerns, including weight gain and hypertension.

Pairings & Uses

Beyond snacking, these spicy Cheetos have found their way into various recipes, from being crushed as a coating for chicken or fish to being sprinkled atop mac ‘n’ cheese for added crunch and heat.

See Scoville units scale:

Nutrition Facts XXTRA Flamin’ Hot Cheetos

See nutrition facts (Per 1 ounce serving, about 21 pieces):

• Calories: 170
• Total Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: <1g
  • Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Vitamin D: 0mcg (0% DV)
• Calcium: 10mg (0% DV)
• Iron: 0.4mg (2% DV)
• Potassium: 50mg (2% DV)

This product also contains various additives and seasonings, including MSG, artificial colors, and flavor enhancers.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date nutritional information, referring directly to the product packaging or the manufacturer’s official website is always best.

XXTRA Hot Cheetos vs. Takis

Whether Takis are perceived as hotter than XXTRA Flamin’ Hot Cheetos can be subjective and might vary from person to person based on individual tolerance and sensitivity to spicy flavors. However, there are a few factors that might explain why some people find Takis hotter:

1. Ingredients & Seasoning Blend: The specific blend of spices and seasonings used in each product is proprietary, meaning each brand has its unique formula. Takis might have a different concentration or type of chili peppers in their seasoning.
2. Lime/Citrus Element: Takis Fuego, one of the most popular flavors, combines the spiciness of chili with a tangy lime flavor. This tanginess can intensify some people’s perception of heat, making it feel spicier on the palate.
3. Texture: Takis are rolled tortilla chips, which means the seasoning is concentrated on the surface area. You get a direct hit of its seasoning when you bite into a Taki. XXTRA Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, being puffed, might distribute the heat more evenly.
4. Expectations & Branding: Takis are marketed and popularly known for their intense lime-chili combo, so people might be psychologically primed to expect a more decisive kick from them.

However, it’s essential to remember that spice tolerance is deeply personal. What feels intensely hot for one person might be mild for another. Both snacks have carved out their niche in the spicy snack market and have loyal fan bases that swear by their respective heat levels.

Conclusion

XXTRA Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are a testament to the public’s love for spicy foods. While they are a delight for the taste buds of many, it’s always a good idea to consume them in moderation and be aware of their nutritional profile.