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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://kitchenbynora.com/homemade-cheez-its-recipe/