Description
Homemade Cheez-Its are a deliciously cheesy and crispy snack made from scratch using sharp cheddar cheese and simple pantry ingredients. These bite-sized crackers bake up golden and crunchy, perfect for snacking or serving at parties. With a flaky buttery texture and a touch of paprika for subtle warmth, this recipe offers a classic and satisfying treat that’s easy to prepare and bake in your oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water (as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Dough: In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and paprika. Add the cold cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, which helps achieve a flaky texture.
- Add the Cheese: Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the food processor and pulse until it is thoroughly combined with the flour and butter mixture.
- Add Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing between additions. Continue until the dough just comes together. Use between 2 to 3 tablespoons depending on dough consistency.
- Roll Out the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Rolling the dough thin is key to making crispy crackers.
- Cut the Crackers: Cut the rolled dough into small 1-inch squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. For an authentic Cheez-It appearance, poke a small hole in the center of each square with a fork.
- Bake: Arrange the cut crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crackers turn golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheet before enjoying. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a little extra paprika or finely grated Parmesan on top before baking.
- If you don’t have a food processor, you can cut the butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers, then manually mix in the cheese and water.
- Make sure the butter is cold to achieve a flaky texture in the crackers.
- Adjust thickness to your preference, thinner for crispier crackers, thicker for a bit more chew.
- These crackers keep well stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
