Ina Garten’s Bold Jalapeño Cheddar Crackers Recipe You Need

Jalapeno Cheddar Crackers spark culinary excitement with their bold, zesty profile and irresistible crunch.

These spicy, cheesy delights blend heat and richness in a compact, crisp canvas that tantalizes taste buds.

Crafted for serious snack enthusiasts, the crackers promise a sophisticated twist on traditional nibbles.

Homemade versions elevate ordinary appetizer spreads with their complex flavor layers and artisanal charm.

Sharp cheese and fiery peppers dance together, creating a memorable bite that awakens palate expectations.

The delicate balance between creamy and spicy elements ensures each cracker delivers maximum sensory impact.

Sophisticated yet approachable, these crackers transform simple ingredients into a gourmet experience: prepare to be amazed.

What You’ll Need for Spicy Cheese Crackers

• Flour: Provides structure and base for the crackers, all-purpose flour works best.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the spiciness of jalapenos.
• Baking Powder: Helps crackers rise and creates a light, crispy texture.

• Cheddar Cheese, Jalapeno, Chipotle Chili Powder: Sharp cheese and spicy peppers create bold, zesty flavor profile with a kick.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a flaky, tender cracker texture.
• Ice Water: Helps bind the dough together and ensures a smooth consistency.
• Egg Wash: Provides golden-brown color and glossy finish to the crackers.
• Fleur de Sel: Adds a delicate, crunchy salt finish on top of the crackers.

Baking Crackers with Bold Flavor

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Kosher salt
• Baking powder
• Unsalted butter
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Fresh jalapenos
• Chipotle chili powder
• Ice water
• Egg
• Fleur de sel

Step 2: Create Cracker Dough

Combine flour, salt, and baking powder in a food processor. Pulse mixture until well combined. Add cold butter and pulse until texture resembles coarse crumbs. Incorporate shredded cheddar, finely chopped jalapenos, and chipotle chili powder. Slowly drizzle ice water while processing until dough starts to form a ball.

Step 3: Shape Dough Log

Transfer dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a smooth 14-inch cylindrical log. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for minimum one hour to firm up and develop flavors.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Station

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove chilled dough from refrigerator.

Step 5: Slice and Prepare Crackers

Cut dough log into 3/8-inch thick rounds. Arrange slices on prepared baking sheet. Brush each cracker with beaten egg. Sprinkle with fleur de sel.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Bake crackers for 12-15 minutes until edges turn golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or snack.

Smart Tips for Crisp, Cheesy Bites

• Chill for Crisp Perfection: Refrigerate the dough for at least an hour to ensure crackers maintain their shape and develop a delightful, crisp texture.
• Control the Heat: Remove jalapeno seeds to manage spiciness, allowing you to customize the cracker's kick to your personal taste preference.
• Grate Cheese Like a Pro: Finely grate the Cheddar to distribute flavor evenly, guaranteeing a delicious cheesy bite in every cracker.
• Butter Matters: Use ice-cold butter to create those irresistible flaky layers that make these crackers truly memorable.
• Bake with Precision: Monitor the crackers closely during baking, aiming for a beautiful golden-brown color that signals perfect crispness without burning.

Storage Advice for Spicy Crackers

• Freezer Long-Term Storage: Seal crackers in vacuum-packed bags or airtight freezer containers to preserve maximum freshness for up to 3 months. Remove excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn and maintain crisp texture.
• Refrigerator Short-Term Preservation: Transfer crackers to a sealed glass or ceramic container with a tight-fitting lid. Layer between parchment paper sheets to prevent sticking and maintain crunchiness. Consume within 7-10 days for optimal flavor and quality.
• Room Temperature Quick Storage: Keep crackers in a cool, dry ceramic or metal container away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Place a small silica gel packet inside to absorb moisture and extend shelf life. Best consumed within 3-5 days for peak taste and crispness.

Cracker Combos to Try Next Time

• Southwestern Spice Crackers: Replace chipotle chili powder with a blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne for a bold southwestern flavor profile that packs a punch.
• Herbed Cheddar Crisp: Swap jalapenos with fresh chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, and chives to create an aromatic and elegant cracker that pairs perfectly with soft cheeses.
• Gouda and Green Onion Cracker: Substitute cheddar with smoked gouda and add finely chopped green onions for a sophisticated and slightly milder savory cracker that offers rich, smooth notes.
• Pepper Jack Ranch Cracker: Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar and incorporate dried ranch seasoning mix to generate a zesty, creamy cracker with a tangy ranch undertone that will be an instant crowd-pleaser.

Recap of Jalapeno Cracker Tips

Spicy cheddar crackers emerge as culinary magic from Ina Garten’s kitchen wisdom.

Crisp edges and complex flavor profiles dance across palate landscapes.

Homemade snacks carry sophisticated charm beyond store-bought alternatives.

Cheese and jalapeño whispers promise gourmet experiences in small, delectable bites.

Sophisticated entertaining becomes effortless with these remarkable crackers.

Foodies will crave these zesty morsels – share the recipe, spread deliciousness, spark conversation, and ignite culinary passion among friends.

Why Jalapeno Cheddar Crackers Are a Must

• Spice Up Your Snack Game: These jalapeño cheddar crackers deliver a zesty kick that transforms ordinary crackers into an exciting, flavor-packed experience. The combination of sharp cheddar and spicy jalapeños creates a bold taste that will wake up your taste buds.
• Master Gourmet Baking in Minutes: With a simple food processor method and minimal ingredients, you can create professional-looking crackers that impress without requiring advanced baking skills. The entire process takes just about 30 minutes of active time, making it perfect for quick entertaining or spontaneous snack cravings.
• Customize Your Crunch: The recipe offers incredible flexibility for home cooks to adjust heat levels by playing with jalapeño and chipotle quantities. These crackers work beautifully as standalone snacks, cheese board additions, or elegant party appetizers that showcase your culinary creativity.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate, allowing you to have fresh, warm crackers ready at a moment's notice. The make-ahead option provides convenience while ensuring maximum flavor development and crispy, golden results every single time.

Ina Garten Jalapeno Cheddar Crackers Recipe

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4.7 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s jalapeño cheddar crackers deliver a spicy-sharp cheese punch with crisp, buttery texture. Homemade crackers promise zesty elegance that elevates any gathering, inviting you to savor each fiery, cheesy bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (480 milliliters) all-purpose flour
• 14 tablespoons (198 grams) cold unsalted butter, ½-inch-diced
• 5 ounces (142 grams) extra-sharp white Cheddar, grated

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon minced seeded jalapeno pepper
• ¼ teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• Fleur de sel or sea salt

Liquid Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) ice water
• 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon milk, for egg wash

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Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine flour, kosher salt, and baking powder, blending briefly to distribute ingredients evenly. Incorporate cold butter into the mixture, pulsing until the texture resembles rough breadcrumbs.
2. Add sharp Cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, and chipotle chili powder to the processor. Pulse several times to integrate these flavor-enhancing ingredients.
3. While the processor is running, gradually stream in ice-cold water until the dough begins to cohesively form a single mass. Stop processing as soon as the dough starts to come together.
4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently roll and shape into a uniform 14-inch (35.5 centimeters) cylindrical log, ensuring smooth edges.
5. Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap, sealing both ends. Refrigerate for a minimum of 60 minutes to allow the gluten to relax and flavors to meld.
6. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
7. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into approximately 3/8-inch (1 centimeter) thick rounds.
8. Arrange the cracker rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving slight space between each piece. Brush the surface with egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
9. Sprinkle fleur de sel over the crackers to enhance their savory profile. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through to ensure uniform browning.
10. Remove from the oven when crackers are golden brown and crisp. Allow to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Cold butter is key to achieving that perfect flaky cracker texture, so keep it straight from the fridge.
• Finely grated Cheddar ensures a smooth, even distribution of cheesy goodness throughout each cracker.
• Removing jalapeno seeds lets you control the spice level, preventing an overwhelming heat that might overpower the cheese.
• Refrigerating the dough helps it firm up, making slicing a breeze and maintaining those crisp cracker edges during baking.
• Watching the crackers closely prevents overbaking, keeping them golden and crisp instead of turning into tooth-breaking rocks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 220 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg