Ranch Cheez Its are the perfect snack for anyone who loves a savory crunch with a burst of bold flavor. Combining the tangy zest of ranch seasoning with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, these homemade crackers bring a delicious twist to a classic favorite.
Making Ranch Cheez Its at home lets us control the ingredients and customize the flavor to our liking. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up and perfect for parties, snacking, or lunchboxes. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that turns everyday ingredients into an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Ranch Cheez Its, we carefully select a blend of dry, wet, and seasoning ingredients that create that irresistible savory crunch and rich flavor. Below is a detailed list of what we need to bring this snack to life.
Dry Ingredients
Our dry ingredients form the base of these homemade crackers, providing structure and that classic Cheez It texture.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (measured, sifted for lightness)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for intense cheesy flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (helps with a slight crispness)
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (balances the flavors)
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients help bind our dough together, adding richness and moisture for perfect dough consistency.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold and cubed for flakiness)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (adds tang and tenderness)
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water (as needed for dough pliability)
Seasonings and Spices
The key to elevating Ranch Cheez Its is a well-balanced mix of spices that capture the essence of ranch flavor.
| Seasoning | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 teaspoon dried dillweed | For authentic ranch herbal notes | |
| 1 teaspoon garlic powder | Adds savory depth | |
| 1 teaspoon onion powder | Enhances umami richness | |
| 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley | Fresh herb aroma | |
| 1/2 teaspoon black pepper | Mild heat and complexity | |
| 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika | Subtle smoky undertone |
By combining these key ingredients, we ensure every bite bursts with classic ranch and cheddar flavors wrapped in a crispy, golden cracker.
Equipment Needed
To make our homemade Ranch Cheez Its crisp and flavorful, having the right equipment is essential. We’ll guide you through each tool for a smooth and efficient baking process.
- Mixing Bowls
We recommend using at least two bowls—one for combining the dry ingredients like all-purpose flour and seasonings, and another for the wet ingredients like butter and sour cream. Medium-sized bowls work best for thorough mixing.
- Food Processor or Cheese Grater
For shredding sharp cheddar cheese finely, a cheese grater is perfect. If you have a food processor, it can speed up the process by quickly shredding the cheese and mixing the dough evenly. Either method works well to integrate cheese smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision matters when blending our ranch seasoning mix and dough components. Use accurate measuring tools for flour, butter, spices, and sour cream to maintain the right flavor and texture balance.
- Rolling Pin
To roll out the dough evenly to the perfect thickness of about 1/8 inch, a rolling pin is essential. This ensures our Ranch Cheez Its bake uniformly crisp.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter
To cut the dough into uniform squares or desired shapes before baking, we use a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Clean edges help the crackers bake evenly and create that signature Cheez It appearance.
- Baking Sheets and Parchment Paper
Non-stick baking sheets lined with parchment paper prevent our crackers from sticking during baking. Using parchment also simplifies cleanup.
- Cooling Rack
After baking, transfer the crackers to a cooling rack. This allows air to circulate underneath, keeping our Ranch Cheez Its crunchy and perfectly cooled.
| Equipment | Purpose | Recommended Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Separate dry and wet ingredient mixing | Medium size, at least 2 |
| Food Processor / Grater | Shred cheese / mix dough | Sharp grater or pulse processor |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient amounts | Standard sets (ml & tsp/tbsp) |
| Rolling Pin | Roll dough to even thickness | Smooth surface, standard size |
| Knife / Pizza Cutter | Cut dough into crackers | Sharp blade for clean cuts |
| Baking Sheets | Bake crackers evenly | Heavy-duty, non-warpping |
| Parchment Paper | Prevent sticking, ease cleanup | Standard baking parchment |
| Cooling Rack | Cool crackers for crisp texture | Wire rack with feet |
With these tools ready, we’re set to craft delicious Ranch Cheez Its that deliver that perfectly crispy crunch infused with classic ranch and cheddar flavor in every bite.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make our homemade Ranch Cheez Its with a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and crunch.
Prep Work
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Grate sharp cheddar cheese fresh for the best melt and flavor.
- Measure all ingredients precisely using dry and liquid measuring tools.
- Set aside two mixing bowls for dry and wet ingredients.
Making the Dough
- In the large bowl, combine dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, shredded sharp cheddar, ranch seasoning blend (including dillweed, garlic powder, smoked paprika), salt, and baking powder.
- In the separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: softened unsalted butter, sour cream, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add wet ingredients to the dry mix. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.
- Use your hands to knead the dough briefly until it forms a uniform ball that is slightly sticky but manageable.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Rolling and Cutting the Dough
- Place the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface.
- Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness for ultimate crispiness.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into 1-inch squares.
- For an authentic look, pierce each square with a fork to mimic the classic Cheez It pattern.
- Transfer the squares carefully to the lined baking sheets, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart.
Baking the Cheez Its
- Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 18 minutes or until the crackers turn golden brown around the edges.
- Keep a close eye during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven when edges have achieved a firm but not overly dark color.
| Baking Temperature | Baking Time | Desired Doneness |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 15-18 minutes | Lightly golden brown edges |
Cooling and Storing
- Transfer baked crackers to a cooling rack immediately to prevent sogginess.
- Allow Ranch Cheez Its to cool completely for at least 20 minutes; this step ensures maximum crunch.
- Store cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, keep crackers in the refrigerator and re-crisp them in the oven at 300°F for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Pro tip: Always cool your crackers on a wire rack. Trapping heat or moisture underneath softens them, ruining that signature crispy texture.
Tips for Perfect Ranch Cheez Its
To achieve the ideal Ranch Cheez Its that boast a crisp texture and bold ranch-cheddar flavor, we recommend following these essential tips:
1. Use Sharp Cheddar Cheese
For maximum flavor, always choose sharp cheddar cheese. It adds a robust cheesiness that defines the snack. Freshly shred the cheese to ensure it melts evenly within the dough.
2. Chill the Dough Thoroughly
After mixing the dough, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before rolling out. This firms up the dough making it easier to handle and contributes to a crispier cracker after baking.
3. Roll Dough Evenly to 1/8 Inch Thickness
Consistent thickness is key. Use a rolling pin with thickness guides or roll the dough evenly to about 1/8 inch. Thinner crackers bake to a crispier texture; thicker ones may remain soft.
4. Cut Uniform Squares and Dock the Crackers
Cut the dough into uniform 1.5-inch squares to ensure even baking. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Don’t forget to dock each cracker with a toothpick or fork to prevent bubbling and maintain flatness.
5. Watch the Baking Time Closely
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 18 minutes or until edges turn golden brown. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking which leads to bitterness or burning.
6. Cool on a Wire Rack Completely
Allow crackers to cool fully on a wire rack. This step is critical to help evaporate any residual moisture and lock in that classic crispy crunch.
Quick Reference Baking Tips
| Tip | Importance | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese Quality | High | Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar |
| Dough Chill Time | Medium | Minimum 30 minutes for better rollability |
| Dough Thickness | High | Aim for 1/8 inch thickness |
| Square Size | Medium | 1.5-inch squares for even cooking |
| Docking | High | Piercing dough prevents bubbles and puffing |
| Baking Temperature | High | 350°F (175°C) is ideal |
| Baking Time | High | 15-18 minutes, watch carefully |
| Cooling | High | Cool completely on wire rack to maintain crunch |
Pro Tip: If your dough feels too sticky unrollable, sprinkle lightly with flour but avoid adding too much to keep crackers tender.
By following these precise tips, our Ranch Cheez Its will come out perfectly golden, crunchy, and bursting with that irresistible ranch and cheddar goodness every single time.
Variations and Add-Ins
To elevate our Ranch Cheez Its and tailor them to different tastes, we can explore a variety of flavor variations and add-ins. These simple tweaks allow us to customize the snack without losing the signature ranch-cheddar combination that makes them irresistible.
Flavor Variations
We can infuse new layers of flavor by swapping or adding herbs and spices. Here are some tested combinations:
| Variation | Key Ingredients & Notes |
|---|---|
| Spicy Ranch | Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper and 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a bold kick. |
| Smoky Ranch | Increase smoked paprika to 1 tsp and add 1/2 tsp chipotle powder. |
| Herb-Infused Ranch | Mix in 1 tsp fresh finely chopped thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. |
| Garlic Ranch | Double garlic powder to 1 tsp and add a pinch of onion powder. |
We recommend adjusting spice levels carefully to maintain balance with the cheese and ranch base.
Add-Ins for Texture and Flavor
Sprinkling in additional ingredients can create extra texture or new taste dimensions in our Ranch Cheez Its. Consider these:
- Chopped Nuts: 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch and nuttiness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Substitute 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar with parmesan for a sharper, saltier note.
- Jalapeños: Finely diced jalapeños (1–2 tbsp) introduce fresh heat and texture.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Mince 2 tbsp and fold into dough for bursts of tangy sweetness.
How to Incorporate Add-Ins
- Mix all dry ingredients per the original recipe.
- Fold in any finely chopped add-ins with the cheese to ensure even distribution.
- Adjust dough consistency if needed: wetter add-ins like jalapeños may require adding a tablespoon more flour.
- Follow the remainder of the rolling, cutting, and baking steps as usual.
By trying these variations and add-ins, we keep each batch exciting and customizable to seasonal ingredients or personal preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Our Ranch Cheez Its make a versatile snack that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes and occasions. Here are some delicious serving ideas to elevate your snack experience:
- Perfect Party Snack: Serve a big bowl of Ranch Cheez Its alongside fresh vegetable crudités like celery, carrots, and cucumber slices for a crunchy, flavorful combo.
- Dip Companion: These crackers shine when paired with creamy dips such as ranch dip, spinach artichoke dip, or a zesty salsa. Their crispy texture holds up well and balances out smooth, rich dips.
- Soup Sidekick: Add a handful of Ranch Cheez Its on the side of a warm bowl of tomato soup, chili, or creamy potato soup. Their savory sharpness complements the comfort of hearty soups.
- Lunchbox Treat: Pack them in your kids’ or your own lunchbox for a tasty, homemade snack that beats store-bought alternatives. They keep well in airtight containers, perfect for on-the-go enjoyment.
- Cheese Board Addition: Include Ranch Cheez Its on your next cheese platter. Pair with sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or spicy pepper jack cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruits for an enticing spread.
Serving Pairings Table
| Serving Idea | Best Pairings | Texture/Flavor Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Party Snack | Fresh veggies, assorted nuts | Crunchy contrast, fresh and savory balance |
| Dip Companion | Ranch dip, spinach artichoke, salsa | Crispy base, enhances creamy or spicy dips |
| Soup Sidekick | Tomato soup, chili, potato soup | Adds savory crunch, contrasts creamy textures |
| Lunchbox Treat | Fresh fruit, yogurt cups | Portable, satisfying, flavorful alternative |
| Cheese Board Addition | Assorted cheeses, cured meats, dried fruits | Sharp and savory complexity, textural variety |
Additional Tips for Serving
- Serve at Room Temperature: The full ranch and cheddar flavor shines best when Ranch Cheez Its are at room temperature. Avoid serving chilled crackers to maintain optimum crunch.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle a pinch of fresh dill or chives over the crackers just before serving for a fresh, herbaceous hint that complements the ranch seasoning.
- Mix with Nuts or Pretzels: For an easy party mix, combine Ranch Cheez Its with roasted nuts or mini pretzels to add variety and extra crunch in every bite.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, we make sure our homemade Ranch Cheez Its deliver exceptional flavor and texture, perfect for every snacking scenario.
Conclusion
Making Ranch Cheez Its at home lets us enjoy a snack that’s both delicious and customizable. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, we can create crackers that bring bold ranch and cheddar flavors to every bite.
Whether we’re sharing them at a party, packing them for lunch, or simply enjoying a crunchy treat, these homemade Cheez Its offer a satisfying alternative to store-bought snacks. Experimenting with different seasonings and add-ins keeps things exciting and ensures there’s always a new twist to try.
With the right approach and attention to detail, crafting these flavorful crackers becomes a rewarding and tasty experience we can repeat anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ranch Cheez Its?
Ranch Cheez Its are savory homemade crackers flavored with ranch seasoning and sharp cheddar cheese, offering a crispy, cheesy, and tangy snack.
Why make Ranch Cheez Its at home?
Making them at home lets you control ingredients, customize flavors, and enjoy fresh, preservative-free snacks tailored to your taste.
What are the main ingredients for Ranch Cheez Its?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, sour cream, and a blend of spices like dillweed, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
What equipment do I need to make Ranch Cheez Its?
You need mixing bowls, a cheese grater or food processor, measuring tools, a rolling pin, a sharp knife or pizza cutter, non-stick baking sheets with parchment paper, and a cooling rack.
How do I prevent crackers from bubbling while baking?
Dock the dough by poking holes with a fork before baking to release steam, which helps prevent bubbles and ensures even, flat crackers.
How long should I chill the dough?
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to roll out and cut accurately.
Can I customize the flavors of Ranch Cheez Its?
Yes! Try adding spices like cayenne pepper or ingredients like jalapeños, parmesan cheese, nuts, or fresh herbs to create unique flavor variations.
How should I store homemade Ranch Cheez Its?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh and crunchy.
What are some good serving suggestions?
Serve them with vegetable crudités, creamy dips like ranch or spinach artichoke, as soup accompaniments, or mixed with nuts and pretzels for a party snack.
How do I ensure my Ranch Cheez Its are crispy?
Bake until golden brown, cool completely on a wire rack, and store in an airtight container to maintain their signature crunch.