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Crispy Cheddar Ranch Goldfish Crackers Recipe Easy Homemade Snack for Kids

crispy cheddar ranch goldfish crackers recipe - featured image

A simple and quick homemade snack recipe for crispy cheddar ranch goldfish crackers that kids love and adults enjoy. Made with pantry-friendly ingredients and easy steps, these crackers are perfect for lunchboxes, playdates, or anytime snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (110g) finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade blend of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 45 tbsp cold water
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Optional: 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 2 tbsp ranch seasoning, and smoked paprika if using in a mixing bowl.
  2. Cut in 1/2 cup cold cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits.
  3. Fold in 1 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly.
  4. Gradually add 4 tbsp cold water, mixing gently; add a 5th tbsp if dough feels too dry. Mix until dough comes together but is not sticky.
  5. Lightly knead dough into a ball, flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  7. Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch (3mm) thickness. Patch cracks gently if needed.
  8. Cut dough into goldfish shapes using a cutter or into small squares/triangles with a knife or pizza cutter. Gather scraps, re-roll, and cut again.
  9. Place crackers about 1/2-inch apart on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and firm.
  10. Cool crackers completely on wire racks before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

Keep butter cold to ensure flaky, crispy crackers. Do not overwork the dough to avoid toughness. Chill dough before rolling to prevent spreading. Use parchment or silicone mats to prevent sticking. Store cooled crackers in airtight containers with a paper towel to maintain crispness. To refresh softened crackers, warm in a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheddar crackers, ranch crackers, homemade snack, goldfish crackers, kids snack, easy snack, crispy crackers