Name: Gluten Free Cheddar Crackers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup gluten free 1:1 flour ((120 grams; recommended: King Arthur Flour Measure for Measure)); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 8 ounces shredded sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter ((cold and cubed)); 3 tablespoons cold water

If you’re on the hunt for a snack that effortlessly balances crunch with cheesy goodness, look no further! These Gluten Free Cheddar Crackers are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for school lunches, afternoon snacking, or even as a party appetizer, these crackers pack a flavorful punch. With a delightful combination of sharp cheddar cheese and aromatic garlic, they’ll have everyone reaching for just one more!

Why It Deserves a Spot

These Gluten Free Cheddar Crackers deserve a spot in your recipe collection because they combine simplicity and flavor in a way that store-bought options simply can’t match. They’re crispy, cheesy, and made with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about knowing you made a delicious snack from scratch. Whether you’re gluten intolerant or just looking for a tasty treat, these crackers hit the spot every time!

Ingredients at a Glance

1 cup gluten free 1:1 flour (120 grams; recommended: King Arthur Flour Measure for Measure)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
8 ounces shredded sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3 tablespoons cold water

Setup & Equipment

Mixing bowls – for combining dry and wet ingredients.
Food processor – to easily blend the ingredients together.
Baking sheet – lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Rolling pin – to roll out the dough evenly.
Cookie cutter or knife – for cutting the crackers into desired shapes.

Make Gluten Free Cheddar Crackers: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that fabulous crispiness we all love in crackers.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, and salt. This blend will serve as the base for your crackers, providing both structure and flavor.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Butter

Add the shredded cheddar cheese and cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. If you’re using a food processor, pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If mixing by hand, use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until you achieve the same texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Water

Gradually add the cold water to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms. You want it to be cohesive but not sticky. Adjust the water amount as necessary; sometimes, you might need a tad more or less depending on your flour.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (use more gluten free flour) and roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. Aim for an even thickness for uniform baking.

Step 6: Cut the Crackers

Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut the rolled dough into your desired shapes. Place the cut crackers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one to allow for expansion.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn, as ovens can vary.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, dig in and enjoy your homemade Gluten Free Cheddar Crackers!

In-Season Swaps

For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dry ingredients.
Swap the cheddar for a different cheese like Parmesan or Gouda for varied flavor profiles.
Incorporate herbs such as dried rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Experiment with a blend of gluten free flours, such as almond or coconut flour, for unique textures.

Pro Tips & Notes

Make sure your butter is cold; this helps create flaky crackers.
Don’t skip the chilling step—if your dough seems too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before rolling out.
For extra cheesy crackers, feel free to sprinkle some additional cheese on top before baking.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain crispness. They can last up to a week.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature for easier rolling. If you have any leftover crackers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked crackers in a freezer-safe bag. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make these crackers dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the shredded cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and replace the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Just ensure that the substitutes are gluten free.

What can I serve with these crackers?

These Gluten Free Cheddar Crackers are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with dips like hummus, guacamole, or even a savory cheese spread. They can elevate a cheese platter or be enjoyed with your favorite soup.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is easily scalable. Just keep in mind that you may need to bake the crackers in batches, depending on the size of your baking sheet.

Why did my crackers turn out soft?

If your crackers turned out soft, it could be due to not baking them long enough or using a dough that was too wet. Make sure to roll the dough thinly and bake until the edges are golden for that perfect crunch.

Hungry for More?

If you’re excited about making more delicious snacks, why not try your hand at some other gluten-free delights? From sweet treats to savory bites, there’s a world of flavors waiting for you to explore. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for more delectable recipes that can easily fit into your gluten-free lifestyle!

Enjoy your time in the kitchen and relish every bite of these Gluten Free Cheddar Crackers. With their irresistible crunch and cheesy goodness, they’re bound to become a favorite in your home!