Description
Ina Garten’s Chipotle Cheddar Crackers are crispy, savory snacks with a perfect balance of smoky chipotle heat and sharp cheddar cheese flavor. These homemade crackers are easy to make with a simple dough that gets rolled, sliced, and baked to golden perfection, making them ideal for entertaining or a flavorful treat at any time.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for flouring
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle powder (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Dairy & Produce
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
Toppings
- Flaked sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Make the dough: Combine the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, and salt using an electric mixer. Blend until a loose dough forms. On low speed, add in the ground chipotle powder, minced jalapeño, and black pepper. Blend just until combined to maintain texture and evenly distribute the spices.
- Shape the dough log: Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface. Roll it into a log approximately 1 1/2 inches wide. Use plastic wrap to assist in shaping the log evenly, then wrap the dough tightly with the plastic wrap to maintain its shape.
- Chill the dough: Refrigerate the wrapped dough log for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step helps firm up the dough for easier slicing and better texture during baking.
- Preheat and slice: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the chilled dough log and carefully cut it into 1/2 inch thick slices.
- Prepare for baking: Place the slices onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly flatten each cracker using the flat bottom of a measuring cup or mug to ensure even thickness. Optionally, sprinkle the tops with flaked sea salt for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake the crackers: Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 15 to 17 minutes, or until they are just beginning to brown on the bottoms. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
- Cool before serving: Remove the crackers from the oven and transfer them to a wire cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely for at least 30 minutes to achieve maximum crispness before serving.
Notes
- These crackers come out delightfully crispy with just the right kick of heat from the chipotle and jalapeño.
- Chilling the dough is essential for clean slicing and more uniform crackers.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melt and flavor.
- Flaked sea salt topping is optional but enhances texture and taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them crisp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cracker
- Calories: 73
- Sugar: 0.2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
