Homemade Cheez-It’s
They taste JUST like the real thing but even BETTER somehow…
Ingredients:
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (yellow or white works)
4 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
½ tsp paprika (optional for color and a subtle smokiness)
2 tbsp cold water (more if needed)
Directions:
Pulse the dough: In a food processor, combine shredded cheese, butter, flour, salt, and paprika.* Pulse until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.* Add water 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough just comes together.
Chill the dough: Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour (or freeze for 20 minutes if impatient).
Roll & cut: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut into ¾-1 inch squares using a knife or pastry wheel. Use a skewer or toothpick to poke a hole in the center of each square (for that signature Cheez-It look).
Bake: Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until puffed and golden around the edges. Let cool completely — they'll crisp as they cool. Enjoy!