Name: Irresistible Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers for Guilt-Free Snacking
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 58 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (medium or sharp, or substitute with hard cheeses like Parmesan); 1 cup Sourdough Discard (opt for flat discard with no bubbles); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (can substitute with vegetable shortening for dairy-free option); 1 tablespoon Ranch Seasoning (can substitute with Italian seasoning or paprika); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (reduce for lighter cracker); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (whole wheat flour can be used for a nutty flavor); 1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt (sprinkle on before baking)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of melting cheddar and the tanginess of sourdough wafted through the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood snack days. These Crunchy Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers are not just a delightful new twist on a classic; they represent the joy of homemade goodness and the satisfaction of using sourdough discard in an innovative way. In just a few simple steps, I can whip up these irresistibly crunchy, cheesy bites that are perfect for the whole family. They’re an ideal solution when cravings strike, and they come together quickly in a food processor, making them a quick prep option for busy days. With no preservatives and wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about sneaking these into lunchboxes or serving them at family gatherings. Ready to make a snack that will have everyone coming back for more? Let’s get baking!

Why Make Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers?

Crunchy, These Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers are a fantastic way to embrace your love for homemade snacks while minimizing food waste.
Easy to Prepare, The simple process requires minimal effort—perfect for busy chefs looking for quick goodies.
Flavorful Twist, With the addition of cheddar cheese and seasoning, they deliver a robust taste that rivals store-bought versions.
Versatile Options, Experiment with different cheese varieties like Gruyère for unique flavor combinations that suit your taste buds.
Guilt-Free Snacking, These crackers are made with wholesome ingredients, ensuring you can indulge without the preservatives found in products like Cheez Its.
These crackers achieve the perfect balance between nostalgia and modern cooking practices, making them a hit with the whole family!

Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for making these delightful snacks.

For the Crackers

Cheddar Cheese – Offers the classic Cheez-It flavor; medium or sharp is best. Try substituting with hard cheeses like Parmesan for a unique twist.
Sourdough Discard – Provides a tangy depth; opt for flat discard with no bubbles for optimal results.
Unsalted Butter – Ensures richness and a crispy bite; vegetable shortening can be used for dairy-free crackers.
Ranch Seasoning – Adds a lovely herby flair; feel free to swap it for Italian seasoning or paprika if preferred.
Salt – Balances and enhances flavors; reduce the amount for a lighter cracker.
All-Purpose Flour – Builds structure for the dough; whole wheat flour can introduce a nutty flavor, though it may change texture.

For Topping (Optional)

Flaky Sea Salt – A delightful finishing touch that adds gourmet appeal; sprinkle on before baking for extra flavor.

With these ingredients, you’ll create delicious Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers that are perfect for snacking, and your family will love them!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers

Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a food processor, combine chopped cheddar cheese, sourdough discard, unsalted butter, ranch seasoning, salt, and all-purpose flour. Pulse until the mixture resembles crumbs, then assess the consistency. If the dough is too crumbly, add a teaspoon of water until it holds together. Aim for a smooth, pliable dough that is ready for chilling.

Step 2: Chill Dough
Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for achieving the desired crispiness in your Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers. Once adequately chilled, the dough will be easier to roll out and shape, making your preparation smoother.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chilled dough from the fridge and divide it in half. On a silicone mat or parchment paper, roll out one half of the dough to about ⅛ inch thickness. Make sure it’s evenly rolled for uniform baking; the thinner the dough, the crunchier the final result will be!

Step 4: Cut Shape
Using a bench scraper or a pasta cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into 1-inch squares. For that classic Cheez-It charm, poke a small hole in the center of each square with a toothpick. Repeat this process with the second half of the dough, ensuring all squares are uniform in size for even baking.

Step 5: Baking
Sprinkle the cut dough squares with flaky sea salt, if desired, for added flavor. Transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden and the crackers appear crispy. If you’re baking two trays, rotate the sheets halfway through for even cooking.

Step 6: Cooling
Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly, allowing the Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers to cool inside. This extra step ensures they become even crispier. Leave them in the warm oven for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, enhancing their crunchiness and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps: combine the ingredients in a food processor and wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to roll it out. Another option is to roll out and cut the crackers, then place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just bake the crackers directly from the fridge until they are golden and crispy. This preparation allows you to have a delicious, homemade snack ready with minimal effort, making those busy weeknights much more manageable!

Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you personalize these delightful crackers with these fun variations!

Cheese Swap: Substitute cheddar with Gruyère or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor twist.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use vegetable shortening instead of butter for a delicious dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Herb Infusion: Replace ranch seasoning with fresh herbs or Italian seasoning to add a burst of flavor, creating a fragrant, herbaceous cracker.
Flavorful Crunch: Consider mixing in smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick that adds heat, taking your snacking experience up a notch.
Nutty Touch: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a nuttier taste and added nutrition, delivering a satisfying texture everyone will appreciate.
Savory Twist: Add garlic powder or onion powder to the dough for a savory aroma that can elevate your snacking game, making them irresistible!
Cheesy Mix: Combine different hard cheeses, like a mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan, for a complex and rich flavor profile your family will love.

With these fun twists, you’ll have a range of Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers to suit every mood and occasion. Enjoy them on their own or pair with dips like hummus for a full-on flavor fest! And if you’re interested in exploring more delightful recipes, check out Cheez Its for additional homemade snack ideas.

How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers

Room Temperature: Store your Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness for up to 2 weeks.

Fridge: If you live in a particularly humid environment, consider placing the airtight container in the fridge. This will keep them crunchy for an extended time, but be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the crackers for up to 2 months. Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight bag to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat frozen crackers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy these delightful Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers just like fresh!

What to Serve with Crunchy Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers

Looking for the perfect accompaniments to elevate your snacking experience with these deliciously crunchy bites?

Creamy Hummus: Smooth and rich, it adds a contrasting texture that perfectly balances the crunch of the crackers.
Guacamole Delight: Bright and zesty, this fresh dip enhances the savory flavor of the Cheez-It Crackers with every bite.
Charcuterie Board Necessity: Pair with cured meats, cheeses, and olives for an enticing spread that will impress your guests.
Savory Spinach Dip: The earthy flavors of spinach and herbs harmonize beautifully with the cheesy, crispy crackers.
Zesty Salsa: A burst of fresh tomatoes and spices adds a refreshing kick that livens up each crunchy cracker.
Fizzy Sparkling Water: The effervescence goes hand-in-hand with the crunchiness of the crackers, creating a delightful snacking experience.

For an even more indulgent treat, consider serving these with a side of warm, melted cheese for dipping! These pairings are sure to take your Crunchy Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers to the next level of deliciousness.

Expert Tips for Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers

Thin Dough Rule: Ensure dough is rolled as thin as possible for the crispiest texture; thicker dough results in chewier crackers.
Keep It Cool: Chill the dough long enough; this helps prevent spreading during baking and enhances crunchiness.
Watch for Stickiness: If the dough feels sticky while blending, add extra flour gradually until it’s manageable.
Uniform Shapes: Cut the crackers into equal sizes for even baking; irregular shapes may bake unevenly.
Storage Secrets: Let crackers cool completely before storing in an airtight container to maintain their crispness; they’ll last a week or more.

Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cheddar cheese for my crackers?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers, opt for medium or sharp cheddar. These varieties provide that signature Cheez-It taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting with other hard cheeses like Parmesan or Pepper Jack for a different spin!

How should I store leftover Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers?
To keep your crackers tasty and crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll remain fresh for about 1 to 2 weeks. If you live in a humid area, you might want to refrigerate them for an extra crunch, just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers?
Yes! For longer storage, these crackers can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to revive their crunch.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky or crumbly?
No worries, this can happen! If your dough feels sticky during mixing, gradually add extra flour until it becomes manageable. If it’s too crumbly and won’t hold together, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it forms a cohesive ball. The dough should be smooth enough to roll out easily.

Are these crackers safe for kids with allergies?
Very! These Sourdough Cheez-It Crackers can be adjusted to cater to dietary needs. For dairy-free versions, simply replace the butter with vegetable shortening, and choose dairy-free cheese alternatives. Always check the labels on any seasonings to ensure they’re free from allergens for your little ones.