Are you craving a crispy, cheesy treat that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! These baked cheese crackers are the perfect homemade snack or appetizer, satisfying that salty-cheesy craving in minutes. They're incredibly versatile, customizable, and require minimal ingredients, making them ideal for a quick weeknight snack or a sophisticated party appetizer. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend!)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Add the Egg
Gently stir in the beaten egg. The mixture should come together but still be slightly crumbly. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 3: Shape the Crackers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take small portions of the cheese mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into small balls. Flatten each ball slightly using a fork, creating a cracker shape. You can also use your fingers to create different shapes and sizes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them as oven temperatures can vary.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy!
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cheese crackers cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. This allows them to crisp up further. Enjoy your delicious homemade cheese crackers!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cheese Crackers:
- Cheese Choice: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Gruyere, or even a sharp provolone, would be fantastic.
- Texture: For crispier crackers, use less egg. For slightly softer crackers, add a touch more.
- Seasoning: Get creative with seasonings! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or some dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Storage: Store leftover crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay crispy if stored properly.
Variations:
- Herb Crackers: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the cheese mixture.
- Spicy Crackers: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Seed Crackers: Mix in some sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cracker, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 30-40
- Fat: 2-3g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This baked cheese cracker recipe offers a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something tasty and homemade without a lot of fuss. Enjoy!