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Crispy, Cheesy Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers Recipe

Name: Crispy, Cheesy Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into small cubes; 1 1/2 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 2-4 tablespoons ice water; 1 large egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon water or milk (for egg wash); Flaky sea salt (optional topping); Extra cayenne pepper (optional topping); Sesame seeds (optional topping)

If you’re on a quest for a fun and unexpected snack that delivers both crunch and flavor, look no further! Crispy, Cheesy Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers combine the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies with the rich, savory goodness of cheddar cheese. These delightful snacks are perfect for any occasion, whether you want to impress guests at a gathering or simply indulge yourself during a cozy night in.

Why Make This Recipe

A perfect balance of cheesy flavor and crispy texture makes these crackers incredibly addictive.
They are easy to prepare, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time, making them ideal for last-minute entertaining.
These crackers are versatile enough to serve as a snack, an appetizer, or a charming addition to your next charcuterie spread.

Easy Method for Crispy, Cheesy Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers

Let’s dive into the simple steps of crafting these delightful crackers right at home. Following this method will reward you with savory snacks that are guaranteed to impress!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you can start creating these delicious crackers, you need to collect the necessary ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into small cubes
1 1/2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
2-4 tablespoons ice water
1 large egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water or milk (for egg wash)
Flaky sea salt (optional topping)
Extra cayenne pepper (optional topping)
Sesame seeds (optional topping)

Gathering your ingredients in advance ensures a smooth cooking process, allowing you to focus on the delicious outcome.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s kick things off! In a large mixing bowl, or if you prefer efficiency, a food processor, whisk together the following:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using)

Make sure the ingredients are mixed thoroughly. This combination lays the foundation for a well-seasoned cracker.

Step 3: Incorporate Cold Butter

Next, it’s time to add the star ingredient—cold butter! Add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter cut into small cubes to the dry mix. If you’re using a food processor, pulse in short bursts until you achieve a coarse meal consistency. You still want some pea-sized pieces of butter in the mix, which will create a nice flaky texture.

If you’re doing it manually, employ a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture. It’s crucial to avoid over-processing or melting the butter at this stage.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Rice Krispies

With the butter in place, it’s time to fold in the magical flavors of cheddar cheese! Add 2 cups of finely grated sharp cheddar cheese to your mixture. If you’re using a food processor, pulse it a couple more times until the cheese is just incorporated. Then, gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring they are evenly distributed while avoiding crushing them.

Step 5: Gradually Add Ice Water

Now, you’ll want to help the dough come together. With the food processor running on low, or by stirring slowly by hand, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of ice water, adding one tablespoon at a time. Keep an eye on your dough; it should begin to form a cohesive ball. If it appears too crumbly, you can add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of ice water, half a tablespoon at a time, until the dough can hold together when squeezed in your hand. Avoid adding too much water; a shaggy texture is ideal.

Step 6: Form and Chill the Dough

At this juncture, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently gather it into a cohesive ball and then flatten it into a disc. Wrap the dough snugly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least one hour (or better yet, two hours or overnight). This resting period allows the gluten to relax and the flavors to meld, which is indispensable for the best cracker’s texture.

Step 7: Prepare Work Surface and Oven

After the dough has rested, you’re almost there! Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and lightly flour your work surface. Lightly flour your rolling pin too. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation will facilitate the baking process and prevent sticking.

Step 8: Roll Out the Dough

Take the dough disc and place it on your floured surface. Carefully roll out the dough to an even thickness, rotating it frequently to maintain shape. The goal is to achieve a thickness of about 1/16 to 1/8 inch. This thinness is vital; it allows your crackers to be perfectly crisp and delightful!

Step 9: Cut and Transfer Crackers

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 1-inch to 1 ½-inch squares or rectangles. You can also use small cookie cutters for fun shapes, especially if you’re making these for a party. Gently transfer the cut crackers to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about ½ inch of space between each cracker. Gather any dough scraps, press them together, and roll out again to create more crackers.

Step 10: Apply Egg Wash and Toppings

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg with 1 tablespoon of water or milk for your egg wash. Lightly brush the tops of each cracker with this egg wash. If desired, sprinkle your creations with flaky sea salt, extra cayenne pepper, or sesame seeds. The egg wash will help these toppings adhere beautifully.

Step 11: Bake Crackers

Carefully place the baking sheets into your preheated oven. Bake for 12-18 minutes, or until the crackers are deeply golden brown around the edges and firm to the touch. Remember to rotate the baking sheets halfway through to ensure even baking. Opt for a solid golden color for the most crisp outcome.

Step 12: Cool Completely

Once the crackers are baked to perfection, promptly transfer them from the baking sheets to a wire cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before storing or serving. Proper cooling facilitates air circulation and prevents condensation, ensuring these crackers maintain their crispy nature.

Step 13: Store and Serve

Once cooled, your homemade Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They keep their delightful crunch if stored properly. Now you’re ready to serve these delicious nuggets with creamy tomato soup, as a crunchy side to a fresh salad, or on a charcuterie board featuring an array of cheeses, olives, and fresh fruits.

Keeping Crispy, Cheesy Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers Fresh

To maintain the delightful crunch of your crackers, here are some handy storage recommendations:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Refrigerate for 3-4 days at 40°F to prolong freshness.
To freeze, store in a container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper for up to two months.
For best results, consume them fresh for maximum flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Crispy, Cheesy Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers

These crackers are a fantastic stand-alone snack but also shine when paired with other foods. Here are several serving suggestions to elevate your snacking experience:

With Dips: Serve alongside a creamy cheese dip or guacamole for a delightful contrast of textures.
On a Charcuterie Board: Incorporate these crackers as a crunchy element on a charcuterie platter featuring cured meats, a variety of cheeses, olives, and sliced fruits.
Side to Soups: Enjoy them as a crunchy accompaniment to classic soups like tomato soup or butternut squash soup.
With Fresh Salads: Toss some crackers into your fresh salad for an unexpected crunch.

Tips to Make Crispy, Cheesy Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers

Chill the dough well. This is crucial for flakiness; the colder the dough, the better the texture.
Don’t skip the egg wash! Not only does it add a beautiful sheen, but it also helps toppings stick.
Experiment with different cheeses. For a twist, try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or a softer cheese like gouda for a different flavor profile.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Herbed Crackers: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper for those who love a punchier flavor profile. You could also sprinkle some with smoked paprika for a different type of heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can make the dough in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a day or two before rolling and baking.

Q: What if I don’t have Rice Krispies?

A: You could substitute them with any crispy cereal or crushed crackers. Just ensure they’re crisp enough to hold up during baking.

Q: How can I make my crackers even more flavorful?

Consider adding garlic powder or onion powder to the dry ingredients.
A sprinkle of your favorite seasoning blend before baking can also add delightful flavor.

Q: How do I keep the crackers from burning?

A: Always keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time. Ovens can vary, so check them a minute or two before the recommended finish time.

Q: Can I use shredded cheese instead of grated?

A: Yes, but grated cheese tends to melt better and incorporate into the dough more thoroughly, giving you the best texture.

With this comprehensive guide, you are fully equipped to create your own Crispy, Cheesy Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers. Dive into the adventure of baking your snacks at home, and enjoy every delightful crunch!