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!

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

Ingredients

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

Prior to baking

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

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

Make the Dough

  1. Step 1

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

  2. 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.)

  3. 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

  1. Step 1

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

  2. 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.

  3. 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

  1. Step 1

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

  2. 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.

  3. Step 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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