These Sourdough Cheese Crackers are crunchy and cheesy, perfect for snacking! Made with tangy sourdough and cheese, they’re simple to whip up and oh-so-delicious!
Every time I make these, I end up munching on them before they even cool down. It’s hard to resist! Grab a dip or enjoy them plain; either way, they’re a hit with everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter: You can use active or discard starter. I find that the discard yields a rich flavor and adds nice crunch. If you don’t have sourdough starter, try a bit of yogurt for tang, but the texture will differ slightly.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Parmesan, Gruyère, or even a pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure to grate the cheese finely for easy mixing.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you want dairy-free crackers, use cold coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative instead.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but whole wheat flour could add a nuttier flavor. You could also try gluten-free flour blends for gluten-free crackers, but the texture may change slightly.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Thin and Crispy Crackers?
Getting the right thickness is key to a crunchy cracker. Roll your dough out evenly to about 1/8 inch thick. If you like them extra crispy, go a bit thinner. Use plenty of flour on your surface and rolling pin to keep it from sticking.
- After cutting your crackers, prick them with a fork to stop them from puffing up too much while baking.
- Keep an eye on them near the end of the baking time; they can go from golden to burnt quickly!
- Let them cool completely on a wire rack for the best crunch.
How to Make Sourdough Cheese Crackers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crackers:
- 1 cup mature sourdough starter (discard or active, unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling on top
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 20-25 minutes for baking. So, you will have fresh, crunchy cheese crackers ready in about 40-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures your crackers don’t stick and makes clean-up easier!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, grated cheddar cheese, salt, garlic powder, and mustard powder if you’re using it. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
3. Incorporate the Butter:
Add in the cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is important for creating that flaky texture in your crackers.
4. Form the Dough:
Bring the mixture together into a dough ball. Knead it gently until it forms a nice ball. If you find the dough is a bit too sticky, don’t worry—just sprinkle in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
5. Roll Out the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll the dough out very thin—about 1/8 inch thick for a nice crunch. The thinner you roll, the crispier your crackers will be!
6. Cut the Crackers:
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into small squares or rectangles. Don’t forget to transfer these cut pieces onto your prepared baking sheet.
7. Prick and Sprinkle:
Prick each cracker a few times with a fork; this helps them bake evenly and keeps them from puffing up too much. Then, sprinkle them lightly with coarse sea salt for added flavor.
8. Bake Until Golden:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they can brown quickly! You want them to turn golden brown and crisp around the edges.
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving. They will become even crispier as they cool!
Enjoy your crunchy, flavorful sourdough cheese crackers with your favorite dips or by themselves! Perfect for snacking or entertaining guests!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to substitute with other cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or even a spicy pepper jack. Just make sure whatever cheese you choose is finely grated to ensure it mixes well.
How Should I Store Leftover Crackers?
Store any leftover crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For maximum freshness, you can also freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Make These Crackers Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. The texture may vary slightly, so be sure to roll them out thin enough for a crunchy finish!
What Do I Do If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, simply add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to add too much, as this can make your crackers tough!
