Are you tired of store-bought crackers filled with questionable ingredients? Craving a healthy, crunchy snack that’s bursting with flavor and satisfyingly homemade? Then look no further! This multi-seed cracker recipe is your answer. These delicious and nutritious crackers are surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste. Perfect for a quick snack, a sophisticated appetizer, or even as a base for your favorite cheese and charcuterie board, these homemade crackers will become a new family favorite. They're a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on deliciousness, making them ideal for quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- ½ cup mixed seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, flax, sesame – get creative!)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¾ cup warm water
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, mixed seeds, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk them together until everything is evenly distributed. This ensures consistent flavor throughout your crackers.
Add wet ingredients and form the dough:
- Gradually add the olive oil and warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Don't worry if it's a little sticky; that's normal!
Roll out the dough:
- Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thickness. Use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness for consistent baking.
Cut and bake:
- Use a knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into your desired shapes – squares, rectangles, or even fun shapes using cookie cutters! Prick the crackers several times with a fork to prevent them from puffing up too much during baking.
Bake to perfection:
- Transfer the crackers to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them towards the end, as ovens can vary.
Cool and enjoy:
- Let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. This allows them to crisp up further and makes them easier to handle.
Tips for the Best Multi-Seed Crackers:
- Seed Variety: Feel free to experiment with different seed combinations! Chia seeds, poppy seeds, or even hemp seeds would be delicious additions.
- Herb Infusion: Add a teaspoon of your favorite dried herbs, like rosemary or oregano, for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Storage: Store your crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Variations:
- Cheesy Crackers: Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to the dough for a savory twist.
- Sweet Crackers: Substitute some of the flour with oat flour and add a touch of maple syrup or honey for a slightly sweet cracker.
Nutritional Information (per cracker, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific seeds used and cracker size, but a general estimate would be around 30-40 calories, 2-3g of fat, and 5-7g of carbohydrates. These crackers are a good source of fiber and healthy fats.
These multi-seed crackers are a delicious and healthy addition to your diet. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, they're perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!