Gluten-Free Cheese Crackers offer a delightful and flavorful snack option for those avoiding gluten. These crispy treats start with preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and even baking. The dry mixture combines gluten-free all-purpose flour with a blend of xanthan gum (if necessary for texture), salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper—each spice contributing to a savory, well-rounded flavor profile.
Cold, cubed butter is then incorporated into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, creating a delicate, flaky texture in the final cracker. The addition of shredded sharp cheddar cheese not only enhances the taste but also provides a rich, cheesy depth. Ice water is gradually added, one tablespoon at a time, to bring the dough together; this careful addition ensures the dough maintains the right consistency without becoming too wet.
Once the dough is formed into a ball, it is rolled out to a thin 1/8-inch thickness between two sheets of parchment paper, making it easier to handle and preventing sticking. Cutting the dough into small squares or desired shapes adds a personal touch. The pieces are then transferred to the prepared baking sheet and baked for 12-15 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.
Allowing the crackers to cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring to a wire rack ensures that they achieve their perfect crunchy texture. These Gluten-Free Cheese Crackers are not only pleasing in taste but also a fun and simple kitchen project. The absence of gluten does not compromise their delightful crunch and cheesy satisfaction, making them a versatile addition to any snack collection or appetizer platter.
Ingredients
1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp xanthan gum (if not already in flour blend)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2-3 tbsp ice water
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, xanthan gum (if needed), salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and ground black pepper.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
5. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. You may not need all of the water.
6. Form the dough into a ball and place it between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
7. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into small squares or desired shapes.
8. Transfer the cut dough to the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
10. Allow the crackers to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.