Description
These Homemade Cheez It Crackers are a delightful, crispy snack made from sharp cheddar cheese and a simple buttery dough. Perfectly savory with just the right amount of salt, these crackers are easy to make at home using basic ingredients and a standard oven. They offer a nostalgic cheesy flavor and satisfying crunch, ideal for snacking or serving alongside dips.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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
- Combine fats and cheese: In a food processor or a stand mixer bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the grated sharp cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, vegetable shortening, and sea salt. Blend or mix until well integrated.
- Add flour: Add the all-purpose flour and pulse or mix on low speed until the mixture forms coarse crumbs, ensuring the ingredients are well combined but the mixture remains crumbly.
- Add ice water gradually: With the food processor or mixer running, slowly add the ice water one tablespoon at a time. Stop adding water when the dough begins to clump together, which may require slightly more or less water depending on conditions.
- Form dough discs: Gather the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Form each portion into a disc about 4 inches in diameter without overworking the dough to keep the texture tender.
- Chill dough: Wrap the dough discs tightly in waxed or parchment paper and refrigerate for at least one hour, up to three days, to allow the dough to firm up.
- Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Cut a sheet of parchment paper to fit your baking sheet.
- Roll out dough: On the parchment paper, gently roll out each dough disc to about 1/8 inch thickness, smoothing the edges as you go.
- Cut and poke crackers: Using a ruler for accuracy, cut the dough into 1-inch squares with a pastry cutter, pizza cutter, or sharp knife. Use a skewer to poke a hole in the center of each cracker to help them bake evenly.
- Separate and bake: Carefully use a sharp spatula to separate and lift the crackers onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, keeping them spaced evenly. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes until the edges are lightly browned and the crackers are crisp.
- Cool and serve: Allow the crackers to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature. This recipe yields about 7 to 8 dozen crackers to enjoy.
Notes
- Do not overwork the dough to maintain a tender texture.
- Adjust the amount of ice water as needed; dough should just come together.
- Chilling the dough is crucial for easy handling and better texture.
- Poking holes in the crackers helps prevent puffing and ensures even baking.
- Store any leftover crackers in an airtight container to keep them crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheez It, homemade crackers, cheddar crackers, cheesy snack, baked crackers, easy snack recipe
