Making homemade Ritz crackers was something I never thought I’d try, but after a few failed attempts at store-bought versions, I figured I’d give it a shot. It turns out, they’re not nearly as complicated as I expected, and the result is something I actually prefer.
The buttery, slightly salty flavor is spot-on, and the texture is crisp without being too hard. Plus, once you’ve made them yourself, you’ll realize how easy it is to adjust the ingredients and get them exactly how you like.
The best part? Homemade Ritz crackers are perfect for pairing with almost anything—cheese, dips, or even just a little butter. I love how much control you have over the ingredients, especially when it comes to things like salt and fat content.
They’re simple enough to make on a lazy afternoon but impressive enough to serve at a party or bring as a homemade gift. I’ve found myself making them more often than I expected, and every time I do, I’m reminded that homemade snacks really do taste better.
Making homemade Ritz crackers is a simple and rewarding process. Below is a detailed recipe using basic ingredients you likely have at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold from the fridge)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons iced cold water
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Flaky salt (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
In a food processor, combine the flour, cold butter, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles a grainy texture. Add the maple syrup and iced cold water. Pulse until it starts to form a dough. It may seem dry initially but will come together. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 20 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the chilled dough on a lightly floured sheet of parchment paper. Roll it out to about ⅛ inch thick. Use a ridged-edge cutter to cut out cracker shapes. Transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gather scraps, re-roll, and cut out additional shapes.
Use a toothpick or skewer to poke 7 holes into each cracker to prevent puffing during baking. Whisk the egg and brush a thin layer over the cracker shapes. Optionally, sprinkle with flaky salt.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning. Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container for storage. They will darken and harden as they cool.
Store your homemade Ritz crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.This recipe yields approximately 40 crackers and can be customized with various flavors or toppings as desired!
Can you use a different type of flour for homemade Ritz crackers?
Yes, you can use different types of flour to make homemade Ritz crackers. Here are some alternatives:
Whole Wheat Flour: This can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour, providing a more wholesome and less processed option. The texture will be slightly denser but still delicious.
Oat Flour: Combining whole wheat flour with oat flour (e.g., 1 cup whole wheat + ½ cup oat flour) is another option that adds a unique flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free Flour: If you need a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. It’s recommended to choose one that includes xanthan gum, or add it separately if your blend does not contain it.
Custom Blends: You can also experiment with other flours like rice, potato, or tapioca flour to create your own blend for gluten-free crackers.
When substituting flours, you may need to adjust the amount of water in the recipe since different flours absorb moisture differently.
What are some creative fillings for homemade Ritz cracker?
1.Savory Spreads:
Cream Cheese and Herbs: Spread a layer of cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs like dill or chives.
Pimento Cheese: A classic Southern spread made from cheddar cheese, pimentos, and spices.
2.Sweet Treats:
Peanut Butter and Chocolate: Sandwich peanut butter between two crackers and dip them in melted chocolate.
Nutella and Bananas: Spread Nutella on one cracker and top with banana slices for a sweet treat.
3.Dips and Salsas:
Hummus: Serve with a variety of hummus flavors, such as roasted red pepper or garlic.
Salsa and Guacamole: Pair with fresh salsa or guacamole for a crunchy dipper.
4. Cheese Combinations:
Goat Cheese with Honey: Spread goat cheese on a cracker and drizzle with honey for a sweet-savory bite.
Brie and Fig Jam: Top with a slice of brie cheese and a dollop of fig jam for a gourmet touch.
5. Meaty Options:
Salami or Pepperoni: Layer slices of salami or pepperoni with cheese for a mini charcuterie experience.
Chicken Salad: Use a scoop of chicken salad as a filling for a protein-packed snack.
6. Vegetable Toppings:
Avocado Smash: Mash avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper, then spread on crackers.
Caprese Style: Top with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
7. Unique Combinations:
Buffalo Chicken Dip: Spread buffalo chicken dip on the cracker for a spicy kick.
Mock Apple Pie Filling: Use crushed Ritz crackers in the filling to mimic the texture of apple pie without the fruit.
These ideas can transform your homemade Ritz crackers into delicious appetizers or snacks suitable for any occasion!
How to make vegan Ritz crackers
To make vegan Ritz crackers, you can follow this simple recipe that captures the buttery and flaky texture of traditional Ritz crackers while using plant-based ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons vegan butter (chilled, or use a dairy-free spread)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as coconut or olive oil)
- ⅔ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- Optional toppings: Flaky sea salt, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for added flavor.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl or food processor, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Add the chilled vegan butter and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the fats into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
Gradually add warm water while mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly wet but not sticky; adjust with more flour or water as needed. Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick.
Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into your desired cracker shapes. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, making sure they are spaced apart. Use a toothpick or fork to poke holes in each cracker to prevent puffing during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown on the edges. Allow the crackers to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Flavor Variations
For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika into the dry ingredients before combining with wet ingredients. You can also sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking for a savory touch.
This recipe yields delicious vegan crackers that are perfect for snacking on their own or pairing with dips!
Ana is a health-conscious mom who prioritizes nutritious eating without compromising on taste. Her recipe collection focuses on wholesome meals that are packed with nutrients and flavor, using fresh ingredients and whole grains.
Ana enjoys creating balanced dishes that cater to various dietary needs, including low-carb, paleo, and dairy-free options.
She shares educational content on the benefits of different superfoods and sustainable eating practices, aiming to inspire other moms to adopt a healthier lifestyle through their food choices.
