Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy snack or appetizer that's surprisingly delicious? Look no further! These cottage cheese crackers are the perfect solution. They're incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. Plus, they’re packed with protein and surprisingly satisfying, making them a guilt-free treat for any occasion. Whether you're looking for healthy meal ideas or just a simple snack recipe, these crackers will become a new favorite. Let's get started on this amazing journey into homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup small curd cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat, your preference!)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder for extra flavor
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine the dry ingredients. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper. If using, add the garlic and onion powder now.
Step 2: Add the wet ingredients. Add the cottage cheese and olive oil (or melted butter) to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together with a fork until a soft dough forms. Don't worry if it seems a little crumbly at first; it will come together as you work it.
Step 3: Knead the dough (lightly). Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until it forms a cohesive ball. Over-kneading will result in tough crackers, so be gentle!
Step 4: Roll out the dough. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to cut the dough into your desired shapes – squares, rectangles, or even fun cookie cutter shapes work great!
Step 5: Bake the crackers. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the crackers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the crackers are crisp.
Step 6: Cool and enjoy! Let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. They will crisp up further as they cool. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Crackers:
- Don't over-knead the dough: Gentle handling is key to tender crackers.
- Use a parchment-lined baking sheet: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Adjust baking time: Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye on your crackers and adjust baking time as needed.
- Experiment with flavors: Add herbs, spices, or shredded cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Cheesy Crackers: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the dough.
- Herby Crackers: Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Spicy Crackers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per cracker – approximate, will vary based on size and ingredients):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the size of the crackers. It's always recommended to use a nutritional calculator for precise values based on your recipe adaptations.
- Calories: Approximately 30-40
- Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams
- Fat: Approximately 1-2 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7 grams
These cottage cheese crackers are a fantastic example of delicious and healthy homemade cooking. They're perfect for a quick snack, party appetizer, or even a crunchy addition to a soup or salad. Enjoy!