Are you craving a delicious and satisfying snack that's both easy to make and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! These spicy seasoned crackers are the perfect solution for a quick bite, a party appetizer, or even a satisfying addition to your soup or salad. Forget store-bought crackers loaded with preservatives – this homemade recipe lets you control the ingredients and create a truly customizable snacking experience. Get ready to elevate your snack game with this incredibly simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste!)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ cup cold water (plus more, if needed)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, sesame seeds
Instructions:
Step 1: Combining Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and paprika. If using, add the garlic powder and onion powder now as well. This ensures even distribution of spices throughout your crackers.
Step 2: Adding Wet Ingredients
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while mixing with a fork. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it comes together. Don't overmix; a slightly rough dough is perfectly fine.
Step 3: Kneading and Shaping
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for about 1-2 minutes, just until the dough becomes smooth and slightly elastic. Avoid over-kneading, as this can result in tough crackers. Roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thickness. If you're feeling adventurous, use cookie cutters to create fun shapes!
Step 4: Baking the Crackers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds at this point. Prick the dough all over with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the crackers are crisp. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of baking, as they can burn quickly.
Step 5: Cooling and Enjoying
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking them into smaller pieces or serving. This allows them to crisp up fully. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the level of spiciness. For a milder cracker, use less; for a fiery kick, add more!
- Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, rosemary, or cumin.
- Cheese please: Add a cup of grated cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.
- Seed sensation: Toasted sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or flax seeds add texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cracker, approximate):
This will vary depending on size and ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: 40-50
- Fat: 2-3g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 7-8g
These spicy seasoned crackers are a simple and delicious addition to any meal or snack time. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and the customizable flavor combinations! They’re perfect as quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, and easy recipes for homemade cooking, making them some of the best recipes for anyone looking for delicious dishes. Enjoy!