Crispy Sourdough Cheese Crackers (Cheez-It Copycat)

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!

Ingredients
- sourdough starter discard1cup
- all-purpose flour1cup
- whole wheat flour1/2cup
- sharp cheddar cheese, shredded2cups
- unsalted butter, melted2tbsp
- water1/3cup
- kosher salt1/2tsp
- fresh dill1/2tsp
Prior to baking
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Sprinkle of Kosher salt
- Optional: seasoning blend (e.. garlic powder, smoked paprika, ranch)
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
How to make Crispy Sourdough Cheese Crackers (Cheez-It Copycat)
Make the Dough
- Step 1
In a medium bowl, combine sourdough discard and water. Once combined, add the butter, seasonings, cheese, and flours.
- Step 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.)
- Step 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
- Step 1
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 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.
- Step 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
- Step 1
Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with kosher salt or seasoning blend of choice.
- Step 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.
- Step 3
Let cool on a wire rack. They’ll continue to crisp as they cool.
Nutrition (per serving)
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
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
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.
How can I make the crackers spicier?
Add ¼ tsp of cayenne pepper and smoked paprika to the dough for a spicy kick.
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.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling out.
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
(@roamingrecipebox)
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, sweet surprises, and a dash of magic from every corner of the map. 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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