Homemade Cheez-Its Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Cheez-Its are a delightful snack that combines the sharpness of cheddar cheese with a buttery, crispy bite. Making them from scratch is easier than you might think and results in a fresh, flavorful alternative to store-bought crackers.

Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, flour, and cold butter. Mix until the dough comes together into a firm ball.
2. Step 2: Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares or your preferred shape.
3. Step 3: Transfer the cut pieces onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly.
4. Step 4: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the crackers are crisp and lightly golden.
5. Step 5: Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper into the dough before baking.
• Use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for a balanced cheesy taste.
• To add a bit of crunch, prick each cracker with a fork before baking.

Storage

Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If they lose crispness, reheat briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to restore crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other flavorful cheeses like gouda or parmesan. Keep in mind that stronger cheeses will affect the taste significantly.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help it firm up and make rolling easier, but it’s not strictly necessary.

Homemade Cheez-Its Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 78 reviews

This Homemade Cheez-Its recipe delivers a deliciously cheesy and crispy snack made from simple ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese, flour, and butter. Perfect for those who love a savory, crunchy treat, these crackers are easy to make from scratch and offer a fresh homemade alternative to store-bought versions.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 60 crackers 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Cheese Dough

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a slight kick)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: Combine the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, salt, and cayenne pepper in a large mixing bowl. Add cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then press the mixture together to form a firm dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. This thin layer will ensure the crackers bake crisp and evenly.
3. Cut the crackers: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into small squares approximately 1-inch each. If desired, poke a small hole in the center of each square with a toothpick to mimic the look of classic Cheez-Its.
4. Bake until crisp: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each cracker. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the crackers are crisp. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving to allow full crisping.

Notes

• Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor impact.
• Ensure the butter is cold to achieve a flaky, crisp texture.
• Store baked Cheez-Its in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.
• Optional spices such as paprika or garlic powder can be added for different flavor profiles.

Keywords: Homemade Cheez-Its, cheddar crackers, savory snack, baked cheese crackers, homemade snack