Are you tired of boring store-bought crackers that lack flavor and excitement? Get ready to transform your snacking experience with these incredibly simple yet irresistible homemade salt and pepper crackers! In just 35 minutes, you'll create a crispy, savory treat that will have your friends and family begging for more. These crackers are not just a snack; they're a culinary adventure that proves gourmet doesn't have to be complicated.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your crackers will bake evenly and become crispy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix these dry ingredients together until they are well incorporated.
- Add 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add 1/4 cup of water to the mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough begins to come together. You may need to adjust the amount of water slightly, depending on the humidity and the flour.
- Once the dough has formed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1 minute until it is smooth and pliable.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness using a rolling pin. Try to keep the shape as rectangular or square as possible for even baking.
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into squares or rectangles. You can also use cookie cutters for fun shapes if desired.
- Transfer the cut crackers onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave some space between each piece to allow for expansion during baking.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle a little extra salt and pepper on top of the crackers before baking.
- Bake the crackers in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your homemade salt and pepper crackers as a snack on their own, or serve them with cheese, dips, or spreads!
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the perfect dough consistency.
- Don't Overwork the Dough: Gentle kneading prevents tough crackers.
- Roll Evenly: Use a ruler or rolling pin guide to maintain consistent 1/8-inch thickness.
- Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra complexity.
- Watch Carefully While Baking: Crackers can quickly go from golden to burnt, so keep a close eye on them.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness for up to a week.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with soft cheeses, hummus, or use as a base for elegant appetizers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
