Homemade Cheeze-Its

Homemade Cheeze-Its are a delicious treat that brings back nostalgic memories of childhood snacking. Crunchy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, these bite-sized snacks make for the perfect accompaniment to gatherings, movie nights, or simply as a midday munch.

The sharp cheddar cheese gives them a delightful tang, while the garlic powder adds a hint of savory depth, making them absolutely addictive. With a satisfying crunch and a rich, cheesy flavor, they offer a homemade twist that far surpasses their store-bought counterparts.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Homemade Cheeze-Its

Complete Ingredients List

1. 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2. 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
3. 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
4. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
5. 1 cup all-purpose flour
6. 2–3 tablespoons ice water

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Cheese: Use a plant-based cheese or a blend of nutritional yeast and fermented cashew cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Butter: Replace with coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Flour: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
• Seasonings: Add smoked paprika, chili powder, or cayenne for extra flavor.

How to Make Homemade Cheeze-Its

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese and Butter Mixture

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese and softened butter. Mix until creamy and well blended.

Step 2: Season the Mixture

Add seasoning salt and garlic powder. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Gradually mix in the flour. If the dough is dry, add ice water one tablespoon at a time until it holds its shape.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. Chilling ensures a better texture and crunch.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.

Step 6: Cut the Dough

Cut into 1-inch squares or use small cookie cutters for fun shapes.

Step 7: Bake the Cheeze-Its

Place squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes or until golden and crisp. Watch closely near the end to avoid burning.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy once cooled!

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Cheeze-Its

How to Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature in a bowl or on a snack platter. Add dips for variety.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

Try pairing with garlic herb dip, ranch, spicy salsa, or guacamole. Add sliced meats and cheeses for a party-worthy cheese board.

Storing & Preserving Homemade Cheeze-Its

Best Storage Methods

Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Lasts up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore crunch. Freeze in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp before reheating.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Cheeze-Its Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Use softened (not melted) butter, don’t skip chilling the dough, and avoid overbaking to prevent hard or burnt crackers.

Helpful Tricks for Success

Use freshly grated cheese for better texture. Try cheese blends, and mix in herbs or seeds for unique variations.

Fun Variations of Homemade Cheeze-Its

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Add herbs like rosemary or thyme, a pinch of cayenne, or mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean version.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

Make vegan using dairy-free cheese and coconut oil. Use almond or coconut flour for a low-carb version.

FAQs

What If My Homemade Cheeze-Its Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

Too dry? Add more ice water next time. Too oily? Butter may have been too soft. Aim for just-softened butter for ideal texture.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes! Prepare and chill the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Bake and store Cheeze-Its ahead of time for easy snacking.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

Change cheese to mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste. Just be sure the dough consistency stays intact.

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