Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers are the perfect crispy, cheesy way to use up sourdough discard while creating a fresh, homemade snack your whole family will love. These golden little squares are packed with sharp cheddar flavor, a subtle tang from sourdough, and that irresistible crunch that makes them hard to stop eating.
If you enjoy baking sourdough bread, you probably have discard sitting in your fridge. Instead of throwing it away, this simple recipe turns it into something truly delicious. These crackers are easy to make, require just a handful of pantry staples, and taste even better than store-bought versions.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best batch of homemade Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers.
Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers Recipe
There are so many reasons this recipe belongs in your regular snack rotation:
- It uses sourdough discard instead of wasting it
- It’s quick and simple to prepare
- The flavor is bold, cheesy, and slightly tangy
- The crackers bake up beautifully crisp
- You control the ingredients—no preservatives
- They’re perfect for lunchboxes, road trips, or after-school snacks
Homemade crackers might sound complicated, but this recipe keeps things easy and practical. Once you try it, you’ll see just how rewarding it is to bake your own crunchy snacks from scratch.
Ingredient Notes
Sourdough Discard
Unfed sourdough discard works perfectly. It adds a mild tang and improves texture. If your discard is very thick, you may need a small splash of water.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Freshly shredded cheese melts and blends better than pre-shredded. Sharp cheddar gives bold flavor, but you can also use mild cheddar if preferred.
Flour Options
All-purpose flour creates a classic texture. For a healthier twist, replace up to half with whole wheat flour.
Butter Substitute
You can use plant-based butter if needed. The texture may vary slightly, but the crackers will still be crisp.
Seasoning Variations
Try onion powder, smoked paprika, or a pinch of black pepper for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended. Add the sourdough discard and stir until smooth.
Next, mix in the flour, salt, and optional seasonings. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add 1 tablespoon of cold water at a time until it comes together.
Form the dough into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap.
Step 2 – Chill the Dough
Place the wrapped dough in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to roll thin and helps the crackers hold their shape.
Step 3 – Roll and Cut
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner you roll it, the crispier your Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers will be.
Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut small squares. Transfer them to the baking sheet. Use a skewer or toothpick to poke a small hole in the center of each cracker. This prevents puffing during baking.
Step 4 – Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking.
Step 5 – Cool and Crisp
Let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet. They will crisp up as they cool. Once fully cooled, transfer to an airtight container.
Pro Tips for Success
- Roll the dough evenly for consistent baking.
- Don’t skip docking (poking holes).
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture.
- Watch closely near the end of baking time.
- Cool fully before storing to maintain crunch.
Flavor Variations
Switch up your Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers with these ideas:
- Spicy Version – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Herb Blend – Mix in dried rosemary or thyme.
- Parmesan Mix – Replace part of cheddar with Parmesan.
- Everything Seasoning – Sprinkle on top before baking.
- Whole Grain – Use half whole wheat flour for nuttier flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These crackers are incredibly versatile:
- Serve alongside soup or chili
- Pack in lunchboxes
- Pair with sliced apples or grapes
- Add to cheese boards
- Enjoy as a movie night snack
They also make a thoughtful homemade gift when packaged in a jar.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store your Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the baked crackers for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months and bake fresh when needed.
If the crackers lose crispness, reheat in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
FAQ About Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can. The flavor may be slightly less tangy, but the crackers will still turn out delicious.
Why are my crackers not crispy?
They may need to be rolled thinner or baked slightly longer. Also, be sure they cool completely before storing.
Can I make these gluten-free?
You can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still bake well.
How thin should I roll the dough?
Aim for about 1/8 inch or slightly thinner. Thinner dough results in crispier crackers.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. This recipe doubles easily. Just divide the dough into two disks for easier rolling.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers are one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to use sourdough discard. They’re crispy, cheesy, fresh, and completely customizable. Once you make them from scratch, you may never go back to the boxed version.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe proves that homemade snacks can be both practical and delicious. Give it a try and enjoy every crunchy bite!
Print
Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers – Easy & Fresh
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, cheesy Sourdough Cheez-Its Snack Crackers made with sourdough discard and sharp cheddar for a fresh homemade snack.
Ingredients
1 cup sourdough discard
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
1–2 tablespoons cold water (if needed)
Instructions
1. Mix butter and shredded cheddar until combined.
2. Stir in sourdough discard until smooth.
3. Add flour, salt, and seasonings. Mix into a dough.
4. Chill dough for 20–30 minutes.
5. Roll dough to 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into small squares and poke a hole in each.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden.
8. Cool completely before storing.
Notes
Roll the dough thin for crispier crackers.
Use freshly shredded cheese for best flavor and texture.
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Reheat in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes if crackers lose crispness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
