Sourdough Cheddar Snack Crackers (Print Version)

Tangy sourdough discard and sharp cheddar yield crisp, golden crackers—ideal with dips or as a savory bite.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Main

01 - 1 cup sourdough discard, unfed and at room temperature
02 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
03 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
07 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
08 - 1 to 2 tablespoons cold water, as needed

→ Topping

09 - Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, blend sourdough discard, cheddar cheese, softened butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly combined.
03 - Gradually add all-purpose flour and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, just until dough comes together.
04 - Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
05 - Roll dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut into 1-inch squares.
06 - Place cracker squares onto prepared baking sheet. Prick each cracker with a fork and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
07 - Bake for 16 to 20 minutes until golden and crisp, rotating baking sheet halfway through for even browning.
08 - Allow crackers to cool fully on a wire rack. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • No one suspects these addictive crackers came from pantry odds and ends—they disappear fast at gatherings.
  • The crispy, tangy bite with a hint of sharp cheddar has ruined boxed crackers for me forever.
02 -
  • If you add too much water the dough becomes sticky and your crackers end up chewy, not crisp.
  • Baking until deep golden brown is key for crunch—pulling them out too soon makes all the difference.
03 -
  • Weighing the ingredients ensures the dough doesn't get too dry or sticky.
  • Letting the dough rest for ten minutes after kneading makes rolling easier and helps the texture.