Homemade Sourdough Discard Cheese Crackers (Better Than Cheez-Its!)
Ingredients
- 8 ozsharp cheddar cheese)
freshly grated (226g
- 4 tbspunsalted butter)
softened (57g
- 100 gsourdough discard)
unfed (1/2 cup
- 80 gall-purpose flour
2/3 cup
- 1 tspkosher salt
- ½ tspbaking powder
- ½ tspturmeric )
- flaky salt
e.g., Maldon
Directions
- 1
Using the small holes of a box grater, grate the sharp cheddar cheese. (Finely grated cheese incorporates better to prevent greasy pockets).
- 2
In a food processor, pulse the grated cheese, softened butter, and sourdough discard until completely blended and creamy.
- 3
In a small bowl, mix flour, kosher salt, baking powder, and turmeric. Add to the food processor and pulse just until a ball of dough forms. Do not over-process.
- 4
Pat dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to relax gluten and firm up the butter.
- 5
Preheat oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Roll dough between two sheets of parchment paper until very thin (less than 1/8 inch). Cut into 1-inch squares using a pastry wheel.
- 6
Place squares on parchment-lined baking sheets. Poke a hole in the center of each cracker with a toothpick (docking) to prevent puffing. Sprinkle with flaky salt.
- 7
Bake for 15-17 minutes until edges are toasted orange-brown. (Watch closely as thin crackers burn quickly).
- 8
Cool completely on a wire rack to crisp up fully. Store in an airtight container.
Homemade Sourdough Discard Cheese Crackers (Better Than Cheez-Its!)
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About this Recipe
Homemade Sourdough Discard Cheese Crackers: Your New Favorite Snack!
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these incredible Homemade Sourdough Discard Cheese Crackers! Forget those store-bought boxes; this recipe brings a unique depth of flavor and irresistible crispness that simply can't be matched. Using sourdough discard isn't just a clever way to reduce kitchen waste; it imparts a subtle, tangy complexity that perfectly complements the sharp cheddar cheese, making these crackers truly better than Cheez-Its!
Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, a rich, buttery taste, and that unmistakable savory punch of real cheddar. They're incredibly kid-friendly and make for a perfect afternoon treat, an elegant addition to a cheese board, or a delightful accompaniment to soups and salads. This easy baking recipe transforms simple ingredients into an addictive snack that everyone will love.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Crackers
- Roll Thin: The key to that signature snap is rolling your dough super thin. Aim for about 1/16th of an inch for optimal crispiness.
- Freshly Grated Cheese: Always grate your own sharp cheddar. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and melt of your crackers.
- Optional Turmeric: A pinch of turmeric is purely for color, giving your crackers that vibrant, cheesy hue without impacting the flavor.
Delicious Variations & Serving Suggestions
These Sourdough Discard Cheese Crackers are fantastic on their own, but don't be afraid to get creative:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the dough for a little heat.
- Herbaceous: Mix in a teaspoon of dried herbs like chives or dill for an aromatic twist.
- Cheese Blends: Experiment with other hard cheeses like Parmesan or Gruyere alongside or instead of cheddar.
Serve them with your favorite hummus, a creamy onion dip, or pack them into lunchboxes for a wholesome, homemade snack that everyone will adore.