Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cheddar Cheese Crackers are rich, flavorful, and perfectly crunchy. The sharp cheddar cheese gives them a bold taste, while the seasoning salt and garlic powder add an extra layer of flavor that makes them stand out. The dough is simple to work with, and the crackers bake up golden brown with a light, crisp texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or something to serve at a gathering, these crackers are an easy and tasty choice.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) salted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon seasoning salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough: In a food processor, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, softened butter, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and flour. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing between additions, until the dough just comes together. You may need more or less water depending on your flour and humidity.
- Roll Out the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times to bring it together. Roll the dough out into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut the Crackers: Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut the dough into small squares or your desired shape.
- Bake the Crackers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the crackers in a single layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Let the crackers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 30-40 crackers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add Herbs: For an extra flavor boost, add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the dough.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan, to change up the flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: To re-crisp, bake the crackers at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to the dough to compensate for the lack of salt in the butter.
2. Can I make these crackers ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Roll it out and bake when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge before rolling out and baking.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can swap the sharp cheddar for other cheeses like Gouda, Parmesan, or a mild cheddar if you prefer a milder flavor.
5. How do I know when the crackers are done?
The crackers should be golden brown and crisp when they’re finished baking. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent them from burning.
6. Can I make these crackers without a food processor?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients by hand. Use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter into the flour and cheese until it forms coarse crumbs, then proceed with adding water.
7. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the crackers may have a denser texture and a slightly nuttier flavor.
8. Can I add a bit of sweetener to the dough?
While these crackers are meant to be savory, a small amount of sugar (about a tablespoon) can help balance the flavors if you prefer a hint of sweetness.
9. Can I use a rolling pin instead of a food processor for the dough?
Yes, you can use a rolling pin. You’ll need to soften the butter beforehand and mix the dough by hand, then roll it out as thinly as possible.
10. Can I use a different type of salt?
Yes, you can use sea salt or kosher salt, but the texture may be slightly different than using seasoning salt, which has additional flavors. Adjust to taste.
Conclusion
These Cheddar Cheese Crackers are a perfect combination of cheese, butter, and seasoning that delivers an irresistible crunch. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, they’re ideal for snacking, serving at parties, or packing for a lunchbox treat. Once you taste these homemade crackers, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought ones!
Print
HOMEMADE Snack
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 30-40 crackers
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade Cheddar Cheese Crackers are a savory, crunchy snack made with sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and seasonings. Perfectly golden and crispy, these crackers are easy to make and great for snacking or serving at parties. With just a few ingredients, these irresistibly flavorful crackers will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons (½ stick) salted butter, softened
½ teaspoon seasoning salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
2–3 tablespoons ice water
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough: In a food processor, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, softened butter, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and flour. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
-
Add Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing between additions, until the dough just comes together. You may need more or less water depending on your flour and humidity.
-
Roll Out the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times to bring it together. Roll the dough out into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
-
Cut the Crackers: Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut the dough into small squares or your desired shape.
-
Bake the Crackers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the crackers in a single layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crisp.
-
Cool and Serve: Let the crackers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Add Herbs: For extra flavor, add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the dough.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
