Vegan Cheez It Recipe Easy and Crispy Snack Ideas

If you’ve ever craved the addictive crunch and cheesy flavor of classic Cheez-Its but follow a vegan lifestyle, this vegan Cheez It recipe is your new best friend. These homemade crackers capture all the nostalgia of the original snack, with a savory, cheesy punch made entirely from plant-based ingredients.

Imagine a crispy, perfectly baked cracker that’s not only delicious but also free from dairy, eggs, and preservatives. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack alternative or want to impress your friends with a clever vegan twist, these crackers are surprisingly easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step and share tips to get that perfect crunch and cheesy flavor. Plus, you’ll find ideas on how to customize these crackers to your taste.

Ready to snack smarter and tastier? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Cheez It recipe is a game changer for anyone who loves crunchy snacks but wants to avoid animal products. Unlike store-bought versions, these crackers are made with wholesome ingredients that you can trust.

They’re free from artificial dyes and preservatives, and you can adjust the level of saltiness and cheesiness to suit your palate.

Plus, making your own snacks means you control the quality and freshness, resulting in a batch that’s crispier and more flavorful than anything you’ll buy in a box. Whether you’re packing these for a road trip, serving them at a party, or enjoying a solo snack session, these vegan Cheez Its will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour blend)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for that cheesy flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup vegan butter, cold and cubed
• 3-4 tablespoons ice-cold water
• Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry cutter or fork (to cut in the vegan butter)
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter (to cut crackers)
• Fork (to prick crackers)
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and baking powder. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
3. Add the cold, cubed vegan butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step helps create a flaky texture in your crackers.
4. Slowly add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until the dough just comes together. You want a firm but pliable dough that isn’t too sticky. Avoid over-mixing at this stage.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Use your hands to gently knead it a couple of times just to bring it fully together.
6. Roll the dough out thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner the dough, the crispier the crackers. Try to keep the thickness uniform for even baking.
7. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into small square crackers, about 1 inch each. Transfer them carefully to your prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
8. Prick each cracker with a fork in the center. This classic step helps prevent the crackers from puffing up while baking and gives them that authentic Cheez It look.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them as ovens vary.
10. Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet. They will crisp up more as they cool.
11. Serve and enjoy your homemade vegan Cheez Its! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Tips & Variations

For an extra cheesy flavor, add a tablespoon of vegan cheese powder or blend in soaked cashews with the water before mixing.

If you prefer a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but expect a slightly different texture.

Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist, or sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before baking for added crunch.

Rolling the dough thinner yields crispier crackers, but be careful not to roll too thin or they may burn quickly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan Cheez Its are ultra-versatile! Serve them as a crunchy snack on their own or pair them with your favorite dips.

They go wonderfully with guacamole, salsa, or a vegan ranch dressing. For a more substantial snack, add them to a cheese board featuring vegan cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruit.

They’re also great as a crunchy topping for salads or soups, adding an unexpected texture and flavor boost. If you want to explore more vegan snack ideas, be sure to check out our Vegetable Crackers Recipe for Healthy Homemade Snacking and Lipton Vegetable Dip Recipe: Easy Party Favorite.

Conclusion

This vegan Cheez It recipe proves that you don’t need dairy or artificial flavors to enjoy a crunchy, cheesy snack. By using simple, wholesome ingredients like nutritional yeast and vegan butter, you can create crackers that satisfy your cravings and align with your plant-based lifestyle.

Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it’s also customizable, allowing you to experiment with flavors and make it your own.

Next time you want a snack that’s both healthy and indulgent, reach for these homemade vegan Cheez Its. If you’re interested in more delicious vegan recipes, don’t miss our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Happy snacking and happy cooking!

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