Are you craving a crunchy, flavorful snack that's both healthy and satisfying? Look no further! This recipe for homemade crackers with seeds is the perfect solution. These crackers are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet they deliver a big punch of flavor and texture. They're perfect for a quick snack, an appetizer, or even as a base for your favorite cheeses and dips. Get ready to elevate your snack game with this simple yet impressive recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or a gluten-free blend)
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¾ cup warm water
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, and salt. Make sure the salt is evenly distributed.
-
Add Wet Ingredients: Add the olive oil and warm water to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky, which is perfectly fine.
-
Knead (Optional): For a smoother texture, gently knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 1-2 minutes. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it helps to distribute the ingredients evenly.
-
Roll & Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into your desired shapes – squares, rectangles, or even fun shapes using cookie cutters.
-
Prick with Fork: Use a fork to prick holes all over the crackers. This prevents them from puffing up too much during baking.
-
Bake: Transfer the crackers to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
-
Cool & Enjoy: Let the crackers cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows them to crisp up further. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for Perfect Crackers:
- Flour Type: Experiment with different flours! Rye flour, oat flour, or almond flour can add unique flavors and textures.
- Seed Variety: Feel free to swap out the seeds or add more of your favorites, such as sesame seeds, flax seeds, or hemp seeds.
- Seasoning: Add a pinch of your favorite herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor. Garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning all work well.
- Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the dough to your preference. Thinner crackers will be crispier, while thicker crackers will be chewier.
Variations:
- Cheese Crackers: Add ½ cup of grated cheddar or parmesan cheese to the dough for a savory twist.
- Herb Crackers: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic touch.
- Spicy Crackers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per cracker - approximate, will vary based on size and ingredients):
- Calories: Approximately 30-40 calories
- Protein: 1-2 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
These homemade seed crackers are a healthy and delicious addition to your diet. They are quick to make, satisfying to eat, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or a healthy addition to a meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy!