Homemade Cheez-Its Recipe
Introduction
Homemade Cheez-Its offer a delightful way to enjoy this classic cheesy snack fresh from your oven. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create crispy, flavorful crackers perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the shredded Cheddar cheese, flour, and cold butter in a mixing bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the dough comes together into a firm ball.
- Step 2: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 3: Optionally, prick each square with a fork to replicate the classic Cheez-It look.
- Step 4: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crisp. Let them cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use sharp or extra-sharp Cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy twist.
- Freeze extra dough to roll and bake fresh Cheez-Its anytime.
Storage
Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To refresh their crispness, bake them for a few minutes at 300°F (150°C) before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?
Yes, pre-shredded cheese works fine, but freshly shredded cheese tends to melt better and gives a smoother texture to the crackers.
How thin should I roll the dough?
Roll the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness to ensure the crackers bake evenly and become crisp without burning.
PrintHomemade Cheez-Its Recipe
Homemade Cheez-Its are a delicious, crispy cheese cracker snack made from just a few simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, flour, and butter. Perfect for a savory treat, these baked crackers have a rich, cheesy flavor and a satisfying crunch that you can enjoy anytime.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 40 crackers 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Dairy
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and grated cheddar cheese. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add about 2 to 3 tablespoons of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together into a smooth ball.
- Roll out the dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough out into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick. Use a knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into small squares, approximately 1 inch by 1 inch. Optional: prick each square with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking for a crispier texture.
- Bake until crisp: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cut dough squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the crackers are golden brown and crisp. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before serving to maintain crunchiness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or cayenne pepper into the dough.
- Store homemade Cheez-Its in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- If you prefer a sharper cheese taste, use aged cheddar or a mix of cheddar and Parmesan.
Keywords: Cheez-Its, homemade crackers, cheddar cheese crackers, snack, baked snacks
