Homemade Cheez-Its Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Cheez-Its offer a deliciously cheesy and crispy snack that’s easy to make from scratch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a fresh, flavorful treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt, plus more for topping
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 2 tablespoons whole milk (cold)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a food processor, combine the shredded cheddar, flour, and 1/2 tsp salt. Pulse briefly to mix.
3. Step 3: Add the cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Step 4: Add the cold milk and pulse until the dough comes together into a ball.
5. Step 5: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Step 6: Cut the dough into small squares (about 1 inch). Use a fork to poke a hole or indent in the center of each square.
7. Step 7: Place the squares on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Sprinkle a little salt over the top.
8. Step 8: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use extra-sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese flavor.
• Try mixing in a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy twist.
• Keep the dough chilled for easier rolling and cutting.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Storage

Store homemade Cheez-Its in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If they lose crispness, you can refresh them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, pre-shredded cheese works fine, but for the best texture and melt, shredding your own cheese is recommended.

Can I make these without a food processor?

Absolutely. You can cut the butter into the flour and cheese mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers, then mix in the milk by hand until a dough forms.

Homemade Cheez-Its Recipe

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4.5 from 99 reviews

Homemade Cheez Its are crispy, savory cheese crackers made from a combination of sharp cheddar cheese and a buttery, flaky dough, baked to perfection with a sprinkle of salt. These crackers make a delicious, crunchy snack perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: About 40 crackers 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Dough

• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt, plus more for topping
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 2 tablespoons whole milk, cold

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, flour, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add the cubed unsalted butter and pulse or cut in with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Milk: Gradually add the cold whole milk to the mixture, stirring or pulsing until a dough forms that holds together when pressed. Avoid adding too much milk to keep the dough firm.
3. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. The thinness is important for the crackers to bake crisp.
4. Cut Crackers: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into small squares, about 1 inch by 1 inch. Transfer the squares to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about half an inch apart.
5. Dock and Salt: Use a fork to prick holes in the center of each square to prevent puffing during baking. Sprinkle a light pinch of salt on top of each cracker to enhance the flavor.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crackers for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
7. Cool and Store: Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool completely on a wire rack. Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Notes

• For an extra sharp flavor, use extra sharp cheddar cheese.
• Ensure the butter and milk are cold to help make a flaky dough.
• Do not overwork the dough to maintain a tender texture.
• These crackers can be stored for up to one week in an airtight container.
• Optional: add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Keywords: Homemade Cheez Its, Cheese Crackers, Savory Snack, Baked Cheese Crackers