Imagine a snack so irresistibly delicious that it transforms your ordinary munching moments into an extraordinary culinary experience. These Homemade Ranch Cheese Crackers are not just another bland cracker – they're a flavor explosion that combines the tangy zest of ranch seasoning with the rich, melty goodness of cheese, all baked to crispy perfection. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a game-day snack, or a homemade treat that will have everyone begging for the recipe, these crackers are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 crackers
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Shredded cheese
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Butter
- Water
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix. Whisk together to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Add 1 cup of shredded cheese to the flour mixture. Use a cheese that melts well, such as sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses.
- Cut 1/2 cup of cold butter into small cubes and add to the flour and cheese mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, starting with 3-4 tablespoons, and mix until the dough comes together. The dough should be firm but not sticky.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times to ensure it holds together.
- Roll the dough out to approximately 1/8 inch thickness using a rolling pin. Use additional flour to prevent sticking.
- Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into small squares or rectangles, approximately 1-inch in size.
- Transfer the cut crackers to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each cracker.
- Use a fork to prick each cracker multiple times to prevent them from puffing up during baking.
- Sprinkle additional ranch seasoning or kosher salt on top of the crackers for extra flavor if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool completely on a wire rack. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is cold when you start, as this helps create those perfectly flaky, crisp crackers.
- Don't Overwork the Dough: Mix just until the ingredients come together to keep the crackers tender.
- Consistent Thickness: Use a rolling pin with guide rings or wooden dowels to ensure an even 1/8-inch thickness for uniform baking.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
- Storage Hack: If crackers lose their crispness, reheat them in a 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes to restore their crunch.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the ranch seasoning to your taste or try different herb blends for variety.
- Watch Carefully While Baking: Ovens can vary, so start checking at the 12-minute mark to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 71kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 13mg
