Description
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful homemade Cheez-Its, made with sharp cheddar cheese and a perfect blend of spices for a delicious, savory snack. These cheddar crackers are easy to make from scratch and baked to a golden brown perfection, offering a crunchy bite that rivals store-bought versions.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup (127 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Sea salt, for topping
Dairy and Liquids
- 1/4 cup (57 grams) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (do not use pre-grated cheese)
- 1/4 cup (59 grams) cold water
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a food processor, add the all-purpose flour, cold cubed butter, freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, granulated sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and fine sea salt. Pulse the mixture until it forms coarse crumbs, then add cold water and blend again until the dough comes together into a cohesive ball.
- Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a thick, flat square, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up, making it easier to roll out later.
- Preheat oven and prepare sheets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Roll and cut dough: On a separate parchment sheet, roll the chilled dough into an 11×14-inch rectangle, keeping the thickness no more than 1/8 inch. Cut the dough into 1 1/4-inch squares using a fluted pastry wheel, pizza cutter, or sharp knife. Transfer the squares to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1/4 inch apart. If any crackers are thicker than 1/8 inch, re-roll and cut again to ensure even baking.
- Make holes: Use the bottom of a straw, skewer, or chopstick to poke a large hole through the center of each cracker, which helps them bake evenly and crisp up nicely.
- Chill and salt: Refrigerate the cut and pierced crackers on the baking sheets for 10 minutes to firm up the dough. Then sprinkle lightly with sea salt for added flavor.
- Bake the crackers: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crackers are puffed, golden brown on top, and crisp on the bottom. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Cool completely and store: Transfer the crackers to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To refresh softened crackers, bake at 300°F (149°C) for about 5 minutes, then cool again before enjoying.
Notes
- Use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, not pre-grated, for best texture and flavor.
- Keep the dough chilled to ensure crisp crackers.
- Roll dough evenly to maintain consistent thickness and even baking.
- Adjust baking time slightly depending on your oven, watching for golden brown edges and a crisp texture.
- Store crackers properly to maintain their crispness; reheating helps if they soften.