- In a food processor, combine the flour, cheddar cheese, butter, poppy seeds, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pulse the mixture until the butter is fully incorporated and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough begins to come together. You may not need all the water, so add just enough to form a dough ball.
- Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times to make it smooth.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Crackers
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator and place it on a floured surface. Roll the dough out as thinly as possible, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Use a sharp knife, pizza cutter, or cookie cutters to cut the dough into your desired shapes (squares, rectangles, or rounds).
- Place the cut crackers onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
- Brush the tops of the crackers lightly with a beaten egg for a golden finish (optional).
- Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them toward the end, as they can burn quickly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Description
These Cheesy Poppy Seed Crackers are the ultimate combination of crispiness, flavor, and crunch. The cheese adds richness, while the poppy seeds bring a subtle nuttiness and texture to each bite. Perfect for snacking on their own, or paired with dips, spreads, or cheese boards, these crackers are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Nutritional Information (per serving, 4 crackers)
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 2%
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use any cheese you like. Parmesan, gouda, or mozzarella would all work well. Just remember that the sharper the cheese, the more pronounced the flavor will be.
2. Can I make these crackers gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Make sure to check the packaging for a proper 1:1 substitution ratio.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you need to store it for longer, freeze it for up to 1 month. Just let it thaw before rolling it out.
4. Can I make these crackers without poppy seeds?
Yes, you can omit the poppy seeds or replace them with another seed (like sesame seeds) or even dried herbs like rosemary for a different flavor profile.
5. How do I store these crackers?
Store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They’ll stay crisp and fresh when properly sealed.
Recommendations
- Dip Pairings: These crackers go wonderfully with cheese spreads, hummus, or a creamy dip like spinach and artichoke dip.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a charcuterie board featuring your favorite cured meats, cheeses, and olives for an appetizer spread.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dough for a spicy kick.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary after baking for a fragrant and flavorful touch.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Poppy Seed Crackers are a must-try for anyone who loves savory, crispy snacks. With their cheesy goodness and delicate crunch, they make the perfect party snack, appetizer, or just a tasty treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. Homemade crackers are always a hit, and these ones are sure to impress!
