Why You’ll Love Gluten-Free Cheez Its Copycat Recipe
- Crispy, crunchy texture just like the original
- Made with real cheddar cheese for rich flavor
- Completely gluten-free with simple ingredients
- Great make-ahead snack for kids and adults
- Easy to customize with different seasonings
- No preservatives or artificial ingredients
- Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, and snack trays
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup old cheddar cheese, shredded and packed
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup salted butter, cold and cubed
- 4–5 tbsp cold water
- Extra salt for topping
Directions
- Place the shredded cheddar cheese, gluten-free flour, salt, garlic powder, and cold butter into a large mixing bowl. Lightly combine with a fork.
- Use a pastry blender or your hands to work the butter into the mixture until small crumbs form throughout the dough. Work quickly to keep the butter cold.
- Add cold water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together into a ball.
- Divide the dough into two equal discs and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- If using a food processor, pulse the cheese, flour, salt, garlic powder, and butter together. Add water gradually until the dough forms a ball, then divide and chill.
- Once chilled, preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out one dough disc as thinly as possible without tearing.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut small squares across the dough.
- Transfer the squares onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they do not overlap.
- Use a chopstick or skewer to poke a small hole in the center of each cracker for the classic Cheez It appearance.
- Sprinkle lightly with extra salt and repeat the process with the second dough disc.
- Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the crackers are crisp and lightly golden orange.
- Allow the crackers to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They will continue to crisp as they cool.
- Serve and enjoy.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 8 servings
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14–16 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for extra heat.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix sharp cheddar with parmesan cheese for deeper flavor.
- Herb Crackers: Add dried rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheddar shreds and vegan butter.
- Sesame Topping: Sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain crispness, avoid storing them while still warm.
For longer storage, freeze the crackers in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
To re-crisp softened crackers, place them in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes and allow them to cool completely before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, sharp cheddar works best, but you can also use white cheddar, gouda, or parmesan blends for different flavors.
Why does the dough need to chill?
Chilling keeps the butter cold, which helps create flaky, crisp crackers during baking.
Can I make these without a food processor?
Absolutely. A pastry cutter, fork, or even your hands work perfectly well.
How thin should I roll the dough?
Roll it as thin as possible without tearing. Thin dough creates crispier crackers.
Are these crackers truly gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free flour and ingredients.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling.
Why are my crackers soft?
They may need a few extra minutes in the oven or more cooling time to fully crisp up.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, these crackers store very well and are ideal for meal prep snacks.
What can I serve with these crackers?
They pair well with dips, soups, charcuterie boards, and lunchbox snacks.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily if you want a larger batch.
Conclusion
These Gluten-Free Cheez Its Copycat crackers are a fun and delicious homemade alternative to the classic snack. With their crispy texture, rich cheddar flavor, and simple preparation, they’re sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or packed away for later snacking, these cheesy crackers deliver satisfying crunch in every bite.
