Homemade Cheddar Cheese Crackers Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Cheez It Crackers are a delightful, cheesy snack that’s both crispy and full of rich flavor. Making them from scratch is easier than you might think, and the result is far superior to store-bought versions. Perfect for munching on their own or serving alongside your favorite dips.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon organic vegetable shortening
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons ice water

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the grated cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, vegetable shortening, and sea salt in a food processor or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
2. Step 2: Add the all purpose flour and mix on low speed or pulse until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Step 3: With the processor or mixer running, slowly add ice water one tablespoon at a time until the dough just begins to clump. You may not need all the water.
4. Step 4: Gather the dough and form it into three discs about 4 inches in diameter, handling it gently to avoid overworking.
5. Step 5: Wrap each disc tightly in waxed or parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 days.
6. Step 6: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dough rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling.
7. Step 7: Roll the dough gently on a piece of parchment paper until about 1/8 inch thick, smoothing edges as you go.
8. Step 8: Using a ruler, cut the dough into 1-inch squares with a pastry cutter, pizza cutter, or sharp knife. Poke a hole in the center of each square with a skewer.
9. Step 9: Carefully separate the crackers with a sharp spatula and transfer the parchment paper with crackers onto a baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes until the edges are lightly browned.
10. Step 10: Let the crackers cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. This recipe makes about 7 to 8 dozen crackers.

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor, or try mixing in some Parmesan for an extra cheesy punch.
• If you don’t have vegetable shortening, you can substitute it with extra butter for a richer taste.
• For a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the dough.
• Make sure the dough is chilled before rolling to make handling easier and prevent sticking.

Storage

Store leftover crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their crispiness. If they lose crunch, reheat them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to crisp up again.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cheese for these crackers?

Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack. Just keep in mind that texture and flavor will vary slightly.

Do I have to use a food processor or stand mixer?

No, you can mix the ingredients by hand with a fork or pastry cutter, but it will take a bit longer to get the right crumbly texture before adding water.

Homemade Cheddar Cheese Crackers Recipe

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Homemade Cheez It Crackers are a crispy, cheesy snack made from scratch using sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and simple pantry staples. These bite-sized crackers are perfectly seasoned with sea salt and baked to a golden brown, delivering a deliciously savory flavor and satisfying crunch. Ideal for snacking, entertaining, or serving alongside soups and salads.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 33 minutes
• Yield: 7 to 8 dozen crackers 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Cheese Dough

• 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon organic vegetable shortening
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons ice water

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: Combine the grated cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, vegetable shortening, and sea salt in a food processor or in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until well mixed.
2. Add Flour: Add the all-purpose flour and pulse or mix on low speed until the mixture forms coarse crumbs, ensuring even distribution of dry ingredients.
3. Add Ice Water: Slowly add ice water one tablespoon at a time while the mixer or processor is running, just until the dough begins to clump together. Adjust the amount of water if necessary depending on the dough’s consistency.
4. Form Dough Discs: Gather the dough and pat it into three discs approximately 4 inches in diameter. Handle the dough gently to avoid overworking.
5. Chill Dough: Wrap the dough discs tightly in waxed paper or parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 3 days to allow the dough to firm up.
6. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dough: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove dough from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes to soften slightly.
7. Roll Out Dough: Roll the dough gently on a piece of parchment paper until it is about 1/8 inch thick, smoothing edges as needed to maintain even thickness.
8. Cut Crackers: Using a ruler, cut the dough into 1-inch squares with a pastry cutter, knife, or pizza cutter. Poke a hole in the center of each square with a skewer to mimic the classic Cheez It shape.
9. Separate and Bake: Use a sharp spatula to separate the crackers on the parchment paper and transfer the parchment to a baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes until the crackers are lightly browned around the edges.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the crackers to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack or serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature. This recipe yields about 7 to 8 dozen crackers.

Notes

• Do not overwork the dough to keep the crackers tender and flaky.
• The exact amount of ice water needed may vary depending on ingredient brands and kitchen humidity.
• Store baked crackers in an airtight container to maintain crispness for up to 1 week.
• Vegetable shortening helps create a crisp texture but can be substituted with additional butter if desired.

Keywords: Cheez It, homemade crackers, cheddar cheese crackers, baked snack, cheesy crackers