Crispy Sourdough Cheese Crackers (Cheez-It Copycat)

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Sarah Bastian (@roamingrecipebox)

These homemade sourdough cheese crackers are the perfect cheesy, crunchy snack with a savory tang from sourdough discard. Packed with real cheddar, a hint of dill, and baked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, they’re a flavorful twist on the classic Cheez-It® cracker—made right in your kitchen!

Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
10min
Total Time
30min
Crispy Sourdough Cheese Crackers (Cheez-It Copycat) recipe

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = portion of crackers)
  • 1cup
    sourdough starter discard
  • 1cup
    all-purpose flour
  • 1/2cup
    whole wheat flour
  • 2cups
    sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2tbsp
    unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3cup
    water
  • 1/2tsp
    kosher salt
  • 1/2tsp
    fresh dill

Prior to baking

  • Olive oil or melted butter
  • Sprinkle of Kosher salt
  • Optional: seasoning blend (e.. garlic powder, smoked paprika, ranch)

How to make Crispy Sourdough Cheese Crackers (Cheez-It Copycat)

Make the Dough

  1. In a medium bowl, combine sourdough discard and water. Once combined, add the butter, seasonings, cheese, and flours.

  2. Knead the dough until it comes away from the side clean. (may need to add a little flour or water depending on how runny your discard is.)

  3. Divide dough into 4–6 portions, wrap or cover, and chill for 30–60 minutes. Chilled dough is easier to roll thin and prevents sticking and larger air fryers can accommodate 4 portions.

Roll & Cut

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Roll out one portion of dough at a time on a lightly floured surface (or parchment) to about 1/16-inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter to slice into small squares.

  3. Poke a hole in the center of each cracker with a skewer or toothpick—this keeps them from puffing up too much.

Season & Bake

  1. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with kosher salt or seasoning blend of choice.

  2. Transfer to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, checking at 7 minutes for browning. Crackers should be crisp and golden.

  3. Let cool on a wire rack. They’ll continue to crisp as they cool.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

240.8kcal (12.04%)

Protein

10.3g (20.5%)

Carbs

17.6g (6.38%)

Sugars

0.4g (0.8%)

Healthy Fat

4.9g

Unhealthy Fat

9.9g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Once cooled, store crackers in an airtight container for up to 1 week. If they soften, pop them back in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to crisp up again.

FAQS

  1. Can I use different types of cheese?

    Yes, you can substitute sharp cheddar with other cheeses like Parmesan or a cheese blend for different flavors.

  2. How can I make the crackers spicier?

    Add ¼ tsp of cayenne pepper and smoked paprika to the dough for a spicy kick.

  3. What if I don't have an air fryer?

    You can bake the crackers in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, checking for crispness.

  4. Can I freeze the dough?

    Yes, you can freeze the dough portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling out.

  5. How do I prevent the crackers from puffing up?

    Poking a hole in the center of each cracker with a skewer or toothpick helps prevent them from puffing up too much.

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Sarah Bastian

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A cozy kitchen tucked at the edge of adventure. The Roaming Recipe Box wanders through comfort and curiosity, one bite at a time—sharing hearty favorites,...

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