Christmas cheese crackers bring instant holiday cheer in crisp, golden bites. A buttery dough packed with sharp cheddar and a hint of smoked paprika is rolled thin, sprinkled with flaky salt and fragrant rosemary, then baked until perfectly crunchy. A small splash of apple cider vinegar adds a bright tang that keeps every bite lively and snackable. Pair christmas cheese crackers with cranberry chutney or a creamy spiced pumpkin dip, and you have a festive, homemade treat that turns any gathering into a cozy celebration.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This christmas cheese crackers
- Perfectly crunchy and cheesy for every holiday gathering.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up a batch.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices.
- Great for pairing with festive dips and spreads.
- A delightful homemade gift for friends and family.
christmas cheese crackers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a food processor, pulse flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder until combined.
- Add cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add grated cheddar and cream cheese; pulse until the dough starts to come together.
- Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough forms a ball.
- Roll dough between two sheets of parchment paper to 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut with festive cookie cutters and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill crackers in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake crackers for 12–15 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 8g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 10g |
| Sugar | 1g |
Ingredients
Gather these delightful ingredients for your Christmas cheese crackers!
- 1 cup – all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup – unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 cup – sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- 4 oz – cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 tsp – salt
- 1/2 tsp – paprika
- 1/2 tsp – garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp – chili powder (optional)
- 2-3 tbsp – ice water
How to Make Christmas Cheese Crackers
Get ready to whip up some delightful Christmas cheese crackers! This festive snack is perfect for holiday gatherings. With a preparation time of 20 minutes, cooking time of 12-15 minutes, and an extra chilling time of 15 minutes, you’ll have these tasty treats ready in no time!
Step 1: Pulse Dry Ingredients
In a food processor, pulse flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder until combined.
Step 2: Add Butter
Add cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Mix in Cheeses
Add grated cheddar and cream cheese; pulse until the dough starts to come together.
Step 4: Add Water
Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough forms a ball.
Step 5: Roll Out Dough
Roll dough between two sheets of parchment paper to 1/8-inch thickness.
Step 6: Cut Crackers
Cut with festive cookie cutters and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 7: Chill Crackers
Chill crackers in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Step 8: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 9: Bake Crackers
Bake crackers for 12–15 minutes or until edges are golden.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Snack |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Extra Time | 15 minutes (chilling) |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 24 |
| Best Served | Warm and festive! |
Pro Tips for Making christmas cheese crackers
- Grate your cheese fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Chill the dough before rolling it out for easier handling.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavors.
- Use a pizza cutter for even, clean edges when cutting shapes.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them crispy longer.
How to Serve this christmas cheese crackers
- Pair with a festive fruit spread for a sweet and savory combo.
- Serve alongside a variety of cheeses for a delightful cheese board.
- Top with a dollop of herbed cream cheese for an extra creamy bite.
- Enjoy with a side of homemade hummus for a healthy twist.
- Accompany with sliced veggies for a crunchy contrast.
- Use as a base for mini holiday canapés with your favorite toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to keep your Christmas cheese crackers fresh and tasty:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow crackers to cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, consider refrigerating.
Freezing
- Wrap crackers tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped crackers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place crackers on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best taste!
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. How do I make Christmas cheese crackers from scratch?
Making Christmas cheese crackers from scratch is a delightful process! Start by mixing flour, cheese, butter, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until you form a dough. Roll it out to your desired thickness, then cut into festive shapes using cookie cutters. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown, and let them cool before serving. Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked cheese crackers filling your home during the holidays!
2. Which cheeses work best for Christmas cheese crackers?
For the best flavor, consider using sharp cheddar, gouda, or parmesan. These cheeses melt beautifully and provide a rich taste that pairs perfectly with the festive season. You can also experiment with cream cheese for a creamier texture or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile. The choice is yours!
3. What festive ingredients can I add to Christmas cheese crackers?
To make your Christmas cheese crackers even more festive, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory touch. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper for a hint of spice or incorporate dried cranberries or nuts for added texture and flavor. These little additions can elevate your crackers and make them a standout holiday snack!
4. How should I store Christmas cheese crackers to keep them fresh?
To keep your Christmas cheese crackers fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay crispy for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a single layer and then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying them again!
Final Thoughts
As you gather with loved ones this holiday season, these Christmas cheese crackers are sure to bring smiles and warmth to your festivities! They’re simple to make and oh-so-rewarding. So roll up your sleeves, get creative, and enjoy this delightful snack that’s perfect for sharing. Happy baking and merry munching!