Cheese and Herb Crackers

There's something deeply satisfying about making your own crackers from scratch. These Cheese and Herb Crackers bring together the sharp tang of cheddar, the nutty richness of Parmesan, and the bright, aromatic notes of fresh chives and thyme. Each bite delivers a crispy, buttery crunch that store-bought crackers simply can't match. Perfect for snacking on their own, pairing with your favorite dips, or arranging on a cheese board, these homemade crackers are as versatile as they are delicious.

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The secret to these crackers lies in keeping the butter cold and not overworking the dough. This ensures a tender, flaky texture that shatters beautifully when you bite into it. The combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan creates a savory depth, while the fresh herbs add a garden-fresh brightness that makes these crackers irresistible. Whether you're hosting a party or simply treating yourself to an elevated snack, these homemade crackers will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups (160 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
• 2 tbsp (20 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tbsp dried)
• 4 tbsp (55 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3–4 tbsp cold water

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and black pepper. Add grated cheddar, Parmesan, chives, and thyme. Mix to distribute evenly.

Step 3

Add cold butter cubes. Using a pastry cutter or fingertips, rub butter into dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4

Drizzle in cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until dough just comes together. Do not overwork.

Step 5

Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll out to 1/8-inch (3 mm) thickness.

Step 6

Cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) squares or desired shapes. Place crackers on prepared baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.

Step 7

Use a fork to prick each cracker.

Step 8

Bake 18–22 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Cool on a wire rack.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the crispiest crackers, roll the dough as thin as possible—around 1/8-inch thickness is ideal. If the dough becomes too warm or sticky while rolling, refrigerate it for 10 minutes to firm up the butter. Pricking each cracker with a fork isn't just decorative; it prevents the crackers from puffing up too much during baking. Keep a close eye on them during the final minutes of baking, as they can go from golden to over-browned quickly. Let them cool completely on a wire rack to ensure maximum crispness.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations—swap cheddar for Gruyère or aged Gouda for a different flavor profile. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients. You can also play with the herbs: try rosemary and sage for an earthier taste, or add a teaspoon of garlic powder for extra savory depth. If you prefer a sweeter cracker, reduce the salt and add a tablespoon of honey to the dough along with the water.

Serviervorschläge

These Cheese and Herb Crackers shine on a charcuterie board alongside cured meats, soft cheeses, and fig jam. They're also perfect for scooping up hummus, spinach dip, or creamy goat cheese spreads. Serve them as an elegant appetizer with a glass of white wine or champagne, or pack them in lunchboxes for a gourmet snack. Store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain their crispness, though they're so delicious they likely won't last that long.

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Making your own crackers at home is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. These Cheese and Herb Crackers prove that with just a few quality ingredients and minimal effort, you can create something far superior to anything you'll find in a package. The aroma of cheese and herbs baking in your oven, the satisfying snap of a perfectly crisp cracker, and the proud moment of serving something you made from scratch—these are the small joys that make home cooking so special. Enjoy every delicious, crunchy bite.

Recipe Help & FAQs

→ What cheeses are best for these crackers?

Sharp cheddar and Parmesan provide a rich, savory flavor. You can also substitute Gruyère or aged Gouda for a different profile.

→ How thin should the dough be rolled?

Roll the dough to about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thickness for the perfect crispness without being too brittle.

→ Can fresh herbs be replaced with dried ones?

Yes, fresh herbs like chives and thyme can be substituted with dried versions at about half the quantity.

→ What’s the best way to store these crackers?

Store in an airtight container to keep the crackers crisp for up to one week.

→ How do I add a bit of heat to these crackers?

Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dry ingredients for a gentle spicy kick.

→ What tools are essential for making these crackers?

A mixing bowl, rolling pin, pastry cutter (or fork), baking sheet, parchment paper, and wire rack are recommended for best results.