Garlic Parmesan Sourdough Cheez-Its

There's something deeply satisfying about transforming humble sourdough discard into golden, crispy crackers that rival any store-bought snack. These Garlic Parmesan Sourdough Cheez-Its bring together the tangy depth of sourdough, the sharp bite of aged cheddar, and the umami richness of Parmesan in every crunchy square. Perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying with your favorite cheese board, these homemade crackers prove that the best snacks are made from scratch.

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The magic of these crackers lies in their simplicity and the clever use of sourdough discard, which adds a subtle tang that elevates the cheese and garlic flavors. Unlike their processed counterparts, these homemade versions let you control the quality of ingredients and adjust the seasoning to your taste. The result is a snack that's both nostalgic and elevated, with a satisfying crunch that keeps you reaching for more.

Ingredients

• Dough: 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour, 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese (finely grated), 1/3 cup (35 g) Parmesan cheese (finely grated), 1/3 cup (80 g) unsalted butter (cold and cubed), 1/2 cup (120 g) sourdough discard (unfed), 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1/4–1/2 tsp fine sea salt (plus more for topping), 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Topping: 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese (finely grated), 1/4 tsp garlic powder, flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1

In a food processor, pulse flour, cheddar, Parmesan, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 2

Add sourdough discard and pulse until a dough just comes together.

Step 3

Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.

Step 4

Shape dough into a rectangle, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30–60 minutes (optional, but helps texture).

Step 5

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6

Roll out dough to 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. Cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) squares using a pastry wheel or knife.

Step 7

Transfer squares to baking sheets, spacing slightly apart. Use a skewer or toothpick to poke a hole in the center of each square.

Step 8

Mix topping Parmesan and garlic powder. Lightly brush crackers with water and sprinkle with topping and flaky sea salt.

Step 9

Bake 16–18 minutes, rotating pans halfway, until golden and crisp.

Step 10

Let cool completely on wire racks before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Chilling the dough is optional but highly recommended—it makes rolling easier and helps the crackers maintain their shape during baking. Keep your butter cold and work quickly to ensure a flaky texture. When rolling out the dough, aim for even thickness throughout so all crackers bake uniformly. The hole in the center isn't just decorative—it prevents the crackers from puffing up too much and ensures even crisping. If the dough becomes too soft while working, pop it back in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra flavor, add 1 tsp dried Italian herbs to the dough. Swap the cheddar for Gruyère or aged Gouda for a different flavor profile. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dough. Make them gluten-free by using a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. You can also experiment with different toppings—try everything bagel seasoning, ranch seasoning, or smoked paprika for variety.

Serviervorschläge

These crackers shine on a cheese board alongside cured meats, cheeses, and olives. Serve them with your favorite dips like hummus, spinach artichoke dip, or a tangy herb cream cheese. They're perfect for casual entertaining, game day snacking, or as a sophisticated addition to cocktail hour. Store crackers in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their crispness—though they rarely last that long once people start snacking.

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Making your own crackers from sourdough discard is a rewarding way to reduce waste while creating something truly delicious. These Garlic Parmesan Sourdough Cheez-Its prove that homemade snacks can be both simple and impressive. With their crispy texture, bold flavor, and satisfying crunch, they're destined to become a staple in your snack repertoire—whether you're entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to something special.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve a crispy texture?

Rolling the dough thinly and baking at 350°F until golden ensures a crisp bite. Using cold butter helps create flaky layers.

→ Can I add herbs to the dough?

Yes, incorporating dried Italian herbs during mixing adds a fragrant note, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

→ What is the role of sourdough discard?

Sourdough discard adds a subtle tang and depth, balancing the rich cheeses and garlic seasoning.

→ How should I store the crackers?

Keep crackers airtight at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness and crunch.

→ Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend cup-for-cup allows for gluten-free crisp crackers.