Description
Love the cheesy crunch of classic Cheez-Its? These Homemade Cheez-Its are everything you crave—crispy, salty, and packed with bold cheddar flavor. Made with simple ingredients and no preservatives, these baked cheese crackers are a fun and easy snack that’ll have you ditching the box for good. Perfect for kids, parties, game day, or just snacking any time of day.
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Ingredients
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1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
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4 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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¾ cup all-purpose flour
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
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2–3 tbsp ice water
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
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In a food processor, combine the shredded cheddar, cold butter, flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using).
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Pulse until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
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Add ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing after each addition, until a dough begins to form.
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Gather the dough into a ball, flatten into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Crackers
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll the chilled dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8-inch thickness.
7. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into 1-inch squares.
8. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
9. Use a toothpick or skewer to poke a hole in the center of each square (this gives that classic Cheez-It look and prevents puffing).
Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Crisp
10. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until crackers are golden around the edges and crisp.
11. Let cool completely on the baking sheet before storing or serving.
Notes
Use Extra-Sharp Cheddar – For the boldest flavor, go with a strong, sharp cheese.
Shred Fresh Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Chill the Dough – Keeps the crackers from spreading too much while baking.
Watch the Oven – Crackers bake quickly, especially in the last few minutes.
Roll Evenly – Thinner dough makes crunchier crackers; thicker dough makes softer ones.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 1 hour chill time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American