Introduction

When it comes to snacks that combine crunch, cheese, and a satisfying salty bite, Cheez-Its reign supreme. But why settle for store-bought when you can easily recreate this delicious snack in your kitchen?

Homemade Cheez-Its are not only fresher and more flavorful, but they also allow you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier, more customized treat.

In this guide, we will walk you through how to make homemade Cheez-Its that are crispy, cheesy, and downright addictive.

From the perfect cheddar cheese to the right baking technique, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make this iconic snack at home. Let’s dive into the world of homemade Cheez-Its, where crunch meets cheesy goodness!

The Perfect Cheese for Homemade Cheez-Its

Why Cheddar Is the Best Choice

The cornerstone of any good Cheez-It is the cheese. For the best flavor and texture, it’s essential to use a high-quality cheddar cheese. Sharp cheddar is often the most recommended because it offers a bold, tangy taste that really comes through in each bite.

The key is to use cheddar that is finely grated, as this helps it melt and integrate seamlessly into the dough, providing that unmistakable cheese flavor we all crave.

Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it typically contains anti-caking agents that may interfere with the dough’s texture.

Experimenting with Other Cheeses

While cheddar is the classic choice, there’s no reason you can’t get creative with your cheese selections. Manchego, Parmesan, or even a combination of cheeses can add unique flavors and textures to your homemade Cheez-Its.

But for the most authentic flavor, start with sharp cheddar, then feel free to experiment as you master the recipe.

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Cheez-Its

To make your homemade Cheez-Its, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Cheddar Cheese: As mentioned, a high-quality, sharp cheddar is the foundation of your crackers.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create that perfect flaky texture.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is the best option for this recipe.
• Cream: Using cream instead of butter and water allows the crackers to develop a deeper flavor and helps them brown beautifully in the oven.
• Egg: An egg wash helps achieve that signature golden sheen on the crackers.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Homemade Cheez-Its

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by grating your cheddar cheese finely. The finer the cheese, the easier it will mix into the dough and help form those crispy, cheesy bites.

Combine the grated cheese with cubed butter and salt in a stand mixer or food processor. Mix until it becomes a smooth, homogenous dough.

Step 2: Add the Flour

Next, add the all-purpose flour to the cheese mixture and mix at a low speed. The dough will initially seem dry and crumbly. This is completely normal. Gradually add in a bit of cream, and continue mixing until the dough starts to come together.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Once your dough is formed, pat it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling the dough ensures that it will be easier to roll out and helps the crackers bake up nice and crisp.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Divide the dough into two equal parts and roll each into a thin rectangle—aim for about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a fluted pastry cutter, cut the dough into 1-inch squares, which will give you that classic Cheez-It shape.

Step 5: Add the Signature Hole

Use a chopstick or a similar tool to make a small hole in the center of each cracker. This step isn’t essential, but it helps achieve that distinctive look and texture of store-bought Cheez-Its.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the crackers for about 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown around the edges. Keep a close eye on them, as homemade Cheez-Its can go from perfectly crispy to over-baked in a matter of minutes.

Once they’re done, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Tips for the Best Homemade Cheez-Its

Don’t Skip the Kneading

While many people worry about overworking the dough, kneading it properly is essential for achieving the perfect texture. The kneading helps bind the dough, ensuring the crackers bake up crisp instead of crumbly. Give the dough a few minutes of love to make it smooth and pliable.

Experiment with Salt

The amount of salt in your dough will affect the flavor of your crackers, so feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes. An egg wash adds a nice touch of gloss and enhances the flavor with a sprinkle of sea salt on top.

Watch the Oven Carefully

Baking homemade Cheez-Its requires precision. They can easily go from perfectly crisp to burnt in a flash. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the trays halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

How to Store Homemade Cheez-Its

Homemade Cheez-Its are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. Place the crackers in a sealed bag or container, and they will stay good for up to a month.

The Healthier Side of Homemade Cheez-Its

One of the best parts about making homemade Cheez-Its is that you get to control the ingredients. By choosing organic or grass-fed butter and cheddar, you can make a healthier version of the snack.

Plus, you’ll avoid any artificial additives or preservatives commonly found in the store-bought versions.

Additionally, if you’re looking to make a lighter version, you can experiment with reducing the amount of butter or cream in the recipe. The result may not be as rich and indulgent, but you’ll still get a delicious, cheesy snack.

Why You Should Make Homemade Cheez-Its

Taste

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a homemade Cheez-It. The flavor is richer and more complex than store-bought versions, and you get the added bonus of a perfectly crispy texture.

Customization

Making homemade Cheez-Its allows you to play with different cheeses, spices, and herbs to create a snack that’s tailored to your preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or some garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.

Fun for the Whole Family

This recipe is perfect for a family cooking project. Kids will love rolling the dough and cutting out the cracker shapes, while adults can enjoy the fun of creating a homemade version of a beloved snack.

Conclusion: Homemade Cheez-Its Are Worth the Effort

Making homemade Cheez-Its might seem like a lot of work, but the effort is more than worth it. These cheesy, crispy bites are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying them with a bowl of tomato soup, as a snack for movie night, or as a party appetizer.

With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy the ultimate homemade snack that tastes even better than the store-bought kind. So, grab your cheddar, butter, and flour, and get ready to bake up a batch of the best homemade Cheez-Its you’ve ever tasted!