These Homemade Cheddar Cheese Crackers are everything you want in a savory snack — crispy, golden, and loaded with real cheddar flavor. Made with simple ingredients like flour, butter, and sharp cheddar cheese, they’re quick to prepare and bake in less than 20 minutes. Unlike packaged crackers, these are made fresh at home with no preservatives, giving you a healthier and tastier option that’s easy to customize.
Whether you’re preparing snacks for a party, looking for a crunchy side for soup, or just want something satisfying to keep on hand, these cheddar crackers are a recipe worth keeping in your collection. They’re proof that a few basic pantry staples can turn into something truly delicious.
Why You’ll Love These Crackers
- Bold cheddar flavor – sharp cheddar melts into the dough, creating crackers with authentic cheesy taste.
- Perfect crunch – thinly rolled dough bakes into crisp, light bites that hold up well for snacking.
- Quick and simple – made with just 6 ingredients, ready in about 30 minutes.
- Customizable – adjust the seasoning with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, or herbs for different flavor profiles.
- Better than store-bought – no preservatives or additives, just fresh, real ingredients you can trust.
Ingredients Needed
To make these cheddar crackers, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen:
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): This provides the base structure and helps the crackers bake up crisp.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A small amount balances the flavors and enhances the cheddar cheese.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and color. You can use smoked paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.
- Cold butter, cubed (4 tablespoons): The cold butter is key to creating flaky, tender crackers. Using it straight from the fridge works best.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, grated (8 ounces): Freshly grated cheddar melts better and delivers stronger flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Cold water (3–4 tablespoons): Brings the dough together. Use just enough to form a smooth dough without making it sticky.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, and paprika. Pulse briefly to mix. If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a large mixing bowl.
3. Cut in the Butter
Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If mixing by hand, use a pastry cutter or fork to work the butter into the flour. This step is important for achieving the signature crispness.
4. Add the Cheese
Add the grated cheddar cheese and pulse until the mixture is evenly blended. The dough should start looking more cohesive at this point.
5. Bring the Dough Together
Slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, while pulsing. Continue until the dough just comes together. Avoid adding too much water — you want a firm but pliable dough.
6. Roll Out the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out evenly to about 1/8-inch thickness. Rolling it thin ensures that the crackers bake up crisp rather than soft.
7. Cut into Squares
Use a sharp knife, pizza cutter, or small cookie cutter to cut the dough into 1-inch squares. Transfer the squares to the prepared baking sheet. For an authentic cracker look, use a fork to gently prick the center of each square.
8. Bake the Crackers
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crisp around the edges.
9. Cool and Store
Let the crackers cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a snack straight from the oven.
- Serve with dips like ranch, salsa, or hummus.
- Add to a cheese board for variety.
- Pack into lunchboxes for a kid-friendly treat.
Storage
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough wrapped tightly in plastic for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, then roll and bake as directed.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper instead of paprika.
- Try substituting white cheddar or a cheese blend for different flavors.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Easy Crispy Cheddar Cheese Crackers Recipe
Description
Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, these Homemade Cheddar Cheese Crackers are made with real sharp cheddar and a few simple ingredients. Perfect for snacking, lunchboxes, or party platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, and paprika. Pulse to mix.
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Add cold butter and pulse until mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
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Add grated cheddar cheese and pulse until evenly combined.
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Slowly add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until dough comes together.
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Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to 1/8-inch thickness.
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Cut into 1-inch squares using a knife, pizza cutter, or cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
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Prick the center of each cracker with a fork to prevent puffing.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
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Cool on a wire rack before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
