Saltine Crackers
Crispy, light, and perfectly salty homemade saltine crackers. This simple recipe uses basic pantry staples to create the classic soup cracker, perfect for snacking, crumbling into soups, or pairing with cheese.
For 8 servings
7 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Activate the Yeast
- b.In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast.
- c.Stir gently and let the mixture stand for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and smells yeasty.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Mix and Knead the Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and 1 tsp of salt.
- c.Pour in the activated yeast mixture and the melted butter.
- d.Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- e.Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Let the Dough Rise
- b.Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat the surface.
- c.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.
- d.Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Preheat Oven and Prepare Dough
- b.Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- d.Gently punch down the dough to release the air, then divide it into two equal portions.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Roll, Cut, and Dock the Crackers
- b.On a lightly floured surface, roll one portion of the dough as thinly as possible (about 1/16-inch thick) into a large rectangle.
- c.Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to cut the dough into 1.5-inch squares.
- d.Using a fork, prick several holes (dock) in each square. This is crucial to prevent them from puffing up during baking.
- e.Carefully arrange the crackers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each one.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Top and Bake
- b.Lightly brush or spritz the tops of the crackers with water and sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
- c.Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the crackers are golden brown and crisp.
- d.Keep a close eye on them in the last few minutes as they can brown very quickly.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Cool and Store
- b.Remove the crackers from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will become even crispier as they cool.
- c.Repeat the rolling, cutting, and baking process with the second portion of dough.
- d.Once fully cooled, store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest crackers, roll the dough as thinly and evenly as you can. A pasta roller set to a thin setting works wonderfully for this.
- 2Don't skip docking the crackers with a fork. The holes allow steam to escape, keeping the crackers flat and crispy.
- 3If the dough resists rolling and springs back, cover it with a towel and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll.
- 4For uniform crackers, use a ruler and a pizza cutter for precise squares.
- 5Ensure the crackers are completely cool before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Crackers
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the dry ingredients.
Cheesy CrackersCheesy Crackers
Mix 1/4 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese into the dry ingredients for a savory, cheesy flavor.
Whole Wheat CrackersWhole Wheat Crackers
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber. You may need to add an extra tablespoon of water.
Spicy CrackersSpicy Crackers
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the flour mixture for a little kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
No Preservatives or Additives
By making crackers at home, you avoid the artificial preservatives, flavorings, and hydrogenated oils often found in commercially produced snacks.
Controlled Sodium Intake
This recipe allows you to control the exact amount of salt used, both in the dough and as a topping, which is beneficial for those monitoring their sodium consumption.
Source of Quick Energy
The carbohydrates from the all-purpose flour provide a quick and easily digestible source of energy, making these crackers a great option for a light snack.
Frequently asked questions
Homemade saltine crackers can be a healthier alternative to store-bought versions as they are free from preservatives and you can control the amount of salt. They are primarily a source of carbohydrates and are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.