Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These crackers are the perfect blend of cheesy, crispy, and slightly spicy. They’re simple to make, freeze well, and are always a hit at parties. The Rice Krispies add a unique light crunch that sets them apart from traditional cheese crackers. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a snack that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup Rice Krispie cereal
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and shredded cheddar until smooth.
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Add the flour, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Mix until a dough forms.
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Gently knead the dough and fold in the Rice Krispies.
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Pinch off teaspoon-sized pieces of dough and roll them into balls.
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Place the balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Flatten each ball with a fork. Sprinkle extra cayenne on top if desired.
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Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
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Cool completely on a rack before storing in an airtight container.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 48 crackers.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Swap the cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier flavor.
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Add dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an herby twist.
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Use smoked paprika instead of cayenne for a smoky depth.
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Make them mini-sized for party bites or larger for a more substantial snack.
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Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking for extra texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To re-crisp, place the crackers on a baking sheet and warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make these crackers ahead of time?
Yes, they can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked crackers?
Yes, you can freeze the dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
What type of cheddar works best?
Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar is best for a bold, cheesy flavor.
Can I reduce the spice level?
Yes, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your Rice Krispies are gluten-free.
How do I keep the crackers crispy?
Cool them completely before storing, and keep them in an airtight container.
Can I add other cheeses?
Yes, try mixing in Parmesan or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
Why do I need to flatten the dough balls?
Flattening ensures even baking and helps the crackers become crisp.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor, but margarine can be substituted if needed.
Are these crackers kid-friendly?
Yes, but if making them for children, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
Conclusion
Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers are a simple yet flavorful snack that combines cheesy goodness with a light crunch. Perfect for entertaining, gifting, or snacking, they’re versatile and easy to customize. Once you try them, you’ll want to keep a batch on hand for every occasion.
Print
Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 48 crackers
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers are crispy, cheesy, and lightly spiced savory snacks made with sharp cheddar, buttery dough, and the unique crunch of Rice Krispies. Perfect for parties, gifting, or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup Rice Krispie cereal
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and shredded cheddar until smooth.
- Add the flour, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Mix until a dough forms.
- Gently knead the dough and fold in the Rice Krispies.
- Pinch off teaspoon-sized pieces of dough and roll them into balls.
- Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball with a fork. Sprinkle extra cayenne on top if desired.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Cool completely on a rack before storing in an airtight container.
Notes
Swap cheddar with pepper jack for a spicier version.
Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an herby flavor.
Use smoked paprika instead of cayenne for smokiness.
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Re-crisp in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 crackers
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
