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A delicious plate of Homemade Cheez-Its

Homemade Cheez-Its

Deliciously crispy homemade cheese crackers that are perfect for snacking or entertaining.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 227 g block sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 125 g all-purpose flour
  • 56 g unsalted butter cubed and cold
  • 0.5 tsp fine sea salt
  • 0.125 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.125 tsp onion powder
  • 0.125 tsp paprika
  • a small pinch cayenne
  • 30 ml ice water

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Baking Tray
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

  1. Shred the cheddar cheese by hand or with a food processor attachment.
  2. Add the shredded cheese, flour, butter, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne to a food processor with the standard blade.
  3. Pulse the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Gradually add the ice water while pulsing until the mixture becomes slightly moist and starts forming into dough.
  5. Transfer the dough to a large mixing bowl and knead it until smooth.
  6. Shape it into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for 1 hour.
  7. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line baking trays with parchment paper.
  8. Divide the dough in half, keeping one half covered in the fridge. Roll out the other half on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick.
  9. Cut the dough into 1-inch squares with a pastry cutter or pizza cutter.
  10. Use a toothpick to make a small hole in the center of each square and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  11. Bake for 14–15 minutes until puffed, dry on top, and slightly browned at the edges.
  12. Let them cool completely on the tray before enjoying.

Notes

Freshly grate your cheese to avoid clumping agents in pre-shredded varieties. Cold butter ensures a flaky texture. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the crackers tender. Bake until golden brown for that signature crunch.