Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup
- Sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated: 4 ounces
- Cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes: 4 tablespoons
- Cold water: 2-4 tablespoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1/4 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Optional: A pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a food processor, combine the flour, cheese, butter, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Step 2: Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Step 3: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Step 5: Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into small squares (about 1 inch). Poke a hole in the center of each square with a toothpick or skewer.
- Step 6: Transfer the Cheez-Its to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.
Notes
- Store cooled Cheez-Its in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.
- Reheat slightly softened Cheez-Its in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
- Serve these homemade Cheez-Its with a creamy dip or alongside your favorite soup for a satisfying snack.
- For extra cheesy flavor, use a blend of sharp and extra-sharp cheddar, ensuring it's finely grated for even distribution in the dough.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American