If you’re a fan of savory snacks, these homemade sourdough cheese crackers are about to become your new go-to. With a delightful crunch and rich cheesy flavor, they’re perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. Plus, making them from scratch means you know exactly what’s in them, so you can snack guilt-free. Let’s get started!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the baking process.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter and allow it to cool slightly until just lukewarm. Combine the sourdough discard and salt with the butter, stirring until the mixture is well blended. Add the shredded cheese and mix thoroughly to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
- Pour the prepared batter onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Use an offset spatula to spread it into a very thin, even layer that measures approximately 14×11 inches.
- Lightly sprinkle the surface with flaky salt, being cautious not to over-season. Bake the mixture in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
- Remove the partially baked mixture from the oven and use a pizza cutter to score it into 1-inch squares. Optionally, poke a hole in the center of each square using the back of a skewer.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the crackers are golden and crisp. If the crackers remain soft, continue baking until they are firm to the touch.
- Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container for storage.
Ingredients
- 200 grams sourdough discard (approximately 1 cup of unfed starter)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 cup finely shredded medium cheddar cheese (loosely packed, about 60 grams)
- Optional seasonings: flaky sea salt, everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, etc.
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- White cheddar
- Parmesan (use 1/2 cup to avoid excessive saltiness)
- Monterey Jack
FAQ
- What is sourdough discard and can it be used in this recipe?
- Sourdough discard is the portion of sourdough starter that is removed during feeding. This recipe is a perfect way to use it up, whether it’s active and stirred down or inactive. Just ensure it’s not too old or discolored.
- What types of cheese work best for these crackers?
- The recipe works well with strong, flavorful cheeses like medium or sharp cheddar. You can also experiment with white cheddar, Parmesan (using 1/2 cup to avoid excess saltiness), or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- How should I store Sourdough Cheese Crackers?
- Once cooled completely, store them in an airtight container, glass jar with a lid, or a zip bag. They are best enjoyed within a few days. If the crackers are not fully baked to crispness, they won’t become crisp in storage.
- Can these crackers be paired with other foods?
- Absolutely! These crackers are great on their own or paired with dips such as queso or hummus, sprinkled over soups like tomato or chili, or served with sandwiches. They also make a great addition to charcuterie boards or salads as a crunchy topping.
- Are there any fun variations or toppings to try?
- You can enhance the crackers by experimenting with different seasonings such as flaky sea salt, everything bagel seasoning, or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
- What is the purpose of poking holes in the crackers?
- Poking holes, or “docking,” helps release steam during baking, preventing the crackers from puffing up and ensuring they remain flat and crispy.
Tips
- Use Strong Cheese: Opt for a robust, flavorful cheese like sharp cheddar to enhance the taste of your crackers. Finely shredding the cheese will help it blend more easily into the mixture for a uniformly cheesy cracker.
- Spread Thinly: When spreading the batter on the baking sheet, aim for a very thin layer, almost transparent. This ensures the crackers bake evenly and turn out crispy.
- Monitor Salt Levels: Since cheese contributes saltiness to the recipe, be cautious when adding additional salt. A light sprinkle of flaky salt on top is sufficient to enhance flavor without overpowering the crackers.
- Baking Consistency: Ensure the crackers are fully baked and firm to the touch before removing them from the oven. Thicker crackers may require additional baking time to achieve the desired crispness.
