Cheese Pastries

Cheese Crackers Recipe – A Crispy and Savory Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 30-40 crackers

Cheese crackers are a classic appetizer, perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party, having friends over, or simply want to treat your family to something delicious. These little snacks are crunchy, flavorful, and become even tastier as they sit, so don't hesitate to make them a day in advance.

A brief story about crackers

Crackers have been loved for generations and are a symbol of hospitality in many cultures. They are often served alongside drinks, making them a perfect accompaniment for a relaxing evening. Their salty taste and crunchy texture make them ideal for enjoying at a festive table or simply during a quiet evening at home.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 pack (250 g) margarine (or butter for a richer flavor)
- 1 small glass (approximately 200 ml) sparkling water
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 150 g grated cheese (plus extra for sprinkling on top)
- Flour as needed (approximately 400-500 g, but it will vary depending on humidity)

Useful tips about ingredients

- Margarine vs. Butter: Using margarine is a classic choice, but for a more intense flavor, you can try butter. It will add extra taste to your crackers.
- Cheese: Choose a high-fat cheese for quality. Smoked cheese can add a special note if you want to experiment.
- Flour: It is important to add the flour gradually to achieve the optimal dough consistency. Type 000 or 550 flour is ideal for a fine texture.

Preparing the crackers step by step

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the cubed margarine. Use a fork or a mixer with blades to knead it well. Then, gradually add the flour, mixing constantly.

2. Adding wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the two eggs with sparkling water and salt. Start adding the egg mixture to the dough, kneading continuously. Continue incorporating flour until you get a firmer, yet elastic dough.

3. Chilling the dough: Form a ball from the dough, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for an hour. This will help firm up the dough and make the crackers crunchier.

4. Shaping the crackers: After the dough has chilled, sprinkle flour on a work surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 5 mm. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into sticks of desired size.

5. Preparing for baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the crackers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Beat an egg and brush each cracker with it, then sprinkle grated cheese on top for extra flavor.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the crackers for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crunchy.

7. Cooling: Once baked, let the crackers cool on a rack to maintain their crunchy texture.

Variations and serving suggestions

- For a spicy kick, you can add a bit of cayenne pepper or paprika to the dough.
- Instead of cheese, experiment with feta cheese or goat cheese for a distinctive taste.
- Serve the crackers with a garlic yogurt dip or a spicy tomato sauce for added flavor.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use still water instead of sparkling water?: Yes, but sparkling water adds a lighter texture due to the bubbles of carbon dioxide.
- How can I keep the crackers fresh?: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them to keep them longer.
- What drinks pair well with the crackers?: These appetizers pair excellently with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail.

Nutritional benefits

Cheese crackers provide a good source of protein and calcium due to the cheese, and if you use low-fat margarine, you can create a lighter version. However, like any snack, it's best to consume them in moderation, considering the calorie content.

This simple yet delicious cheese crackers recipe is perfect for any occasion. Treat your family and friends to these crispy appetizers, and with every bite, you'll bring a smile to their faces. Enjoy!