Homemade Cheez-Its

Homemade Cheez-Its are the ultimate snack for any cheese lover! These crispy, cheesy crackers are easy to make and utterly irresistible. With a golden, crunchy texture and the perfect balance of savory cheese flavor, they’re perfect for snacking on their own or serving with your favorite dips. Best of all, they come together quickly with just a few simple ingredients, making them a great homemade alternative to store-bought snacks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Homemade Cheez-Its are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory. The sharp cheddar cheese gives the crackers a rich flavor, while the paprika and garlic powder add an extra layer of depth. Whether you’re craving a snack for movie night or something to munch on during the day, these crackers are quick, easy to make, and completely addicting. Plus, you can customize the seasoning to suit your tastes, making them the ultimate homemade snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2-3 tablespoons cold water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a food processor, combine flour, cheddar cheese, butter, salt, paprika, and garlic powder. Pulse until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.

3. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball.

4. Roll the dough out onto a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.

5. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into small squares.

6. Place the squares on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

7. Let the crackers cool before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Add a kick: For a spicier version, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder into the dough for extra heat.

• Different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses, such as gouda, Parmesan, or a cheddar-jack blend, for a different flavor profile.

• Herb-infused: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a herby twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the homemade Cheez-Its in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: To restore their crispiness, place the crackers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese can be used, fresh-grated cheese will yield the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the dough’s consistency.

2. Can I make these crackers without a food processor?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients by hand, though the dough may be a bit more challenging to handle. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until it forms coarse crumbs, then mix in the cheese and seasonings.

3. How do I know when the crackers are done?

The crackers are done when they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as the edges can brown quickly.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll it out and proceed with the recipe.

5. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a more wholesome version of these crackers. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly denser.

6. Can I add seeds or nuts to the crackers?

Yes! You can mix in sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture and flavor.

7. How thin should I roll the dough?

Rolling the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness is ideal for getting the right crispiness without being too thick. The thinner the dough, the crispier the crackers will be.

8. Can I make the crackers larger or smaller?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the crackers based on your preference. Just keep in mind that larger crackers will take longer to bake, while smaller ones will bake more quickly.

9. Can I make these crackers dairy-free?

To make dairy-free crackers, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.

10. How do I keep the crackers crispy?

Make sure the crackers are fully cooled before storing them in an airtight container. If they lose their crispiness, you can bake them for a few minutes to restore the crunch.

Conclusion

Homemade Cheez-Its are a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for cheese lovers. With a crispy texture, cheesy goodness, and customizable seasonings, they’re ideal for snacking on the go or serving as a party appetizer. Whether you’re making them for a quick bite or as a homemade treat, these crackers are sure to become a favorite! Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!

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