Description
This homemade Cheez-Its recipe delivers crispy, cheesy crackers made from sharp cheddar cheese and a touch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Perfectly baked to a golden finish, these crackers are a delightful snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (about 120 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for sprinkling)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 4 oz)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (1/2 stick)
- 2-4 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Assemble all ingredients needed for the recipe to ensure you have everything at hand before starting.
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and softened butter. Mix these ingredients together, then gradually add cold water (2 to 4 tablespoons), stirring until a smooth dough forms.
- Roll Out Dough: Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll it out evenly to about 1/8 inch thickness to ensure an even bake and crispy crackers.
- Cut Dough into Squares: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled dough into small squares resembling traditional Cheez-Its. Transfer these squares onto a baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crackers for 15 to 20 minutes or until they turn golden and crisp.
- Cool and Store: Remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack to maintain crispness. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to keep fresh.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- Ensure butter is softened for easier mixing into the dough.
- The water amount may vary slightly; add just enough to bring the dough together without it becoming sticky.
- For perfectly even crackers, use a ruler to space your cuts evenly if desired.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to preserve freshness.
