Description
Crispy, cheesy, and homemade, these Cheez-Its are a perfect snack made with sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Easy to prepare and bake in under 35 minutes, these crackers are ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or anytime cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Butter
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 3 tbsp water (adjust as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated sharp cheddar cheese with the cold, cubed unsalted butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the all-purpose flour and salt. If desired, add the cayenne pepper at this stage to add a subtle spicy kick to your crackers.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the water, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface to bring the dough together without overworking it, which can make the crackers tough.
- Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a knife or cutter, cut into small squares or your preferred shapes.
- Bake: Arrange the cut dough pieces on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crackers are golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Let the crackers cool completely on a wire rack before enjoying, which helps them firm up for perfect crunch.
Notes
- Adjust water quantity as needed; add gradually to avoid a sticky dough.
- Use cold butter to achieve a flaky, tender texture.
- Cayenne pepper is optional but recommended for a subtle heat.
- Store baked crackers in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
- If desired, experiment with other cheese varieties for different flavors.
