Cheese and Herb Crackers

There's something deeply satisfying about making crackers from scratch—the way simple ingredients transform into golden, crispy wafers that shatter with each bite. These Cheese and Herb Crackers bring together the sharp tang of cheddar and Parmesan with the aromatic freshness of chives and thyme, creating a savory snack that's worlds away from anything store-bought. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a homemade treat to pair with your favorite cheese board, these crackers deliver both flavor and texture in every bite.

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The secret to these crackers lies in keeping the butter cold and avoiding overworking the dough. By rubbing cold butter cubes into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, you create pockets of fat that contribute to the crackers' delicate, crispy texture. The combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan provides a bold cheesy foundation, while fresh herbs add bright, aromatic notes that elevate each bite from ordinary to extraordinary.

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: Prepare the oven

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

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients and cheese

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

Step 3: Incorporate the butter

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

Step 4: Form the dough

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

Step 5: Roll out the dough

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

Step 6: Cut the crackers

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

Step 7: Prick the crackers

Use a fork to prick each cracker.

Step 8: Bake and cool

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

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the crispiest results, ensure your butter remains cold throughout the mixing process—this prevents the dough from becoming greasy and helps maintain structure. When rolling out the dough, aim for an even 1/8-inch thickness to ensure uniform baking. If the dough becomes too warm or sticky while working with it, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before continuing. Don't skip pricking the crackers with a fork; this prevents them from puffing up during baking and ensures they stay flat and crispy.

Varianten und Anpassungen

While sharp cheddar and Parmesan create a classic flavor combination, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère for a nutty sweetness or aged Gouda for a rich, caramel-like depth. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for gentle heat. You can also customize the herbs—try rosemary and oregano for an Italian twist, or add a touch of garlic powder for extra savory depth. These crackers adapt beautifully to your flavor preferences while maintaining their signature crispy texture.

Serviervorschläge

These cheese and herb crackers shine on a cheese board alongside soft brie, tangy goat cheese, and sharp aged cheddar. Pair them with your favorite dips—from classic hummus and spinach artichoke dip to sophisticated fig jam or caramelized onion spread. They're also delightful served simply with butter, used as a base for canapés topped with smoked salmon and cream cheese, or crumbled over salads for added crunch. Store them in an airtight container for up to one week, though they're so delicious they rarely last that long.

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Making crackers at home is easier than you might think, and the results are incomparably fresh and flavorful. These Cheese and Herb Crackers prove that with just a few quality ingredients and minimal effort, you can create something truly special. Whether you're preparing them for a party, packaging them as a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply enjoying them as an afternoon snack, these golden, crispy wafers will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Once you taste the difference homemade makes, you'll never look at store-bought crackers the same way again.

Recipe FAQ

→ What cheeses work well in these crackers?

Sharp cheddar and Parmesan provide bold flavors, but Gruyère or aged Gouda are great alternatives for variety.

→ How do fresh herbs affect the flavor?

Fresh chives and thyme add a fragrant, earthy note that enhances the savory cheese base beautifully.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for a day before rolling and baking for convenience.

→ What is the best way to store the crackers?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness for up to a week.

→ How do I get the crackers extra crispy?

Rolling the dough thinly and baking until golden ensures a pleasantly crisp texture throughout.