Introduction

These homemade Cheez-It crackers capture the irresistible sharpness and crunch of the classic snack right in your own kitchen. Made with real sharp cheddar and simple ingredients, they are perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings.

Homemade Cheez-It Crackers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
1 tablespoon organic vegetable shortening
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup all purpose flour
4 tablespoons ice water

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the cheese, butter, shortening, and salt in a food processor or in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
Step 2: Add the flour and pulse or mix on low speed until the mixture is combined and resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Slowly add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, with the mixer or food processor running, until the dough just begins to clump together. You may need slightly more or less water depending on your ingredients and conditions.
Step 4: Gather the dough and pat it into three discs, about 4 inches in diameter. Avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender.
Step 5: Wrap the discs tightly in waxed paper or parchment and refrigerate for at least one hour, or up to three days until ready to bake.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dough sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before rolling.
Step 7: Roll the dough gently on a piece of parchment paper until it is about 1/8 inch thick, smoothing the edges as you go.
Step 8: Using a ruler, cut the dough into 1-inch squares with a pastry cutter, pizza cutter, or sharp knife. Poke a small hole in the center of each square with a skewer to mimic classic Cheez-Its.
Step 9: Carefully separate the crackers on the parchment paper to avoid sticking, and transfer the entire paper to a baking sheet.
Step 10: Bake for 12 to 13 minutes or until the crackers are lightly browned around the edges. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature. This recipe makes about 7 to 8 dozen crackers.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of sharp and extra sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese flavor.
Chill the dough thoroughly to make rolling and cutting easier and to prevent shrinking during baking.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the dough for a flavor twist.
If you don’t have a food processor or stand mixer, you can mix by hand using two knives to cut in the butter and cheese before adding water.

Storage

Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to retain their crunch. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze the baked crackers for up to three months. Reheat briefly in an oven or toaster oven to refresh their crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change. Sharp cheddar gives the classic Cheez-It taste, but you can experiment with cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique variations.

How do I prevent the crackers from sticking together?

Make sure to space the crackers well on the parchment before baking and separate them gently after baking. Also, storing them in an airtight container with a paper towel can help absorb moisture and keep them crisp.

Homemade Cheez-It Crackers Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 113 reviews

These homemade Cheez It crackers offer a delightful, cheesy snack with a crispy texture and rich buttery flavor. Made from scratch using sharp cheddar cheese, these crackers are perfect for satisfying savory cravings and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Author: zara
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 28 minutes
Yield: 7 to 8 dozen crackers 1x
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
1 tablespoon organic vegetable shortening
1 teaspoon sea salt

Dough

1 cup all purpose flour
4 tablespoons ice water

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: Combine the grated cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, vegetable shortening, and sea salt in a food processor or in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix until evenly combined.
Add Flour: Add the all-purpose flour and pulse or mix on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring the dry and wet ingredients are well integrated.
Add Ice Water: Slowly add the ice water one tablespoon at a time while the processor or mixer is running. Add just enough water to allow the dough to clump together without becoming sticky.
Form Dough Discs: Gather the dough and pat it into three discs about 4 inches in diameter. Be careful not to overwork the dough to maintain tenderness.
Chill Dough: Wrap the dough discs tightly in waxed paper or parchment and refrigerate for at least one hour, or up to three days if preparing ahead.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Take the dough out and let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before rolling.
Roll Dough: On a piece of parchment, gently roll the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness, smoothing edges as you go to ensure even thickness throughout.
Cut Crackers: Using a ruler, cut the dough into 1-inch squares with a pastry cutter, pizza cutter, or sharp knife. Pierce each cracker with a skewer in the center to prevent puffing during baking.
Arrange and Bake: Carefully separate the crackers using a sharp spatula and transfer the parchment with crackers onto a baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges.
Cool and Serve: Allow the crackers to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes. Serve warm or cool to room temperature. Yields approximately 7 to 8 dozen crackers.