Save Celebrate the season with these delightful Snowflake Cutout Crackers—an elegant, buttery treat that brings a festive charm to any holiday gathering. Crisped to perfection and shaped like delicate snowflakes, these crackers offer a sophisticated crunch that pairs beautifully with your favorite cheeses, fruits, and spreads.
Save This cracker recipe not only impresses visually but also brings a tasteful balance of savory and aromatic notes to your appetizer spread. Whether adorned with sprinkled seeds or flaky sea salt, they deliver irresistible texture and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- Dough
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) cold water
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- Flavorings (choose or mix as desired)
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 oz (60 g) finely grated aged cheddar (optional)
- Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and chosen flavorings or cheese.
- 3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- 4. Gradually drizzle in cold water, mixing just until dough comes together. Do not overwork.
- 5. Divide dough into two portions. Roll out each on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch (3 mm) thickness.
- 6. Using snowflake-shaped cookie cutters, cut out crackers and transfer to prepared baking sheets. Gather scraps, reroll, and cut additional crackers.
- 7. Brush lightly with beaten egg. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and seeds, if using.
- 8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Rotate sheets halfway through baking for even browning.
- 9. Cool completely on wire racks. Arrange on a serving board with cheeses, fruits, and spreads.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform thickness and baking. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the crackers tender and flaky. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate quick cleanup. Rotate baking sheets halfway for consistent golden color.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Enhance your crackers by experimenting with parmesan, zaatar, or dried thyme in the dough for varied flavor profiles. For a cheesy twist, add grated aged cheddar before mixing. Seeds like sesame or poppy can be varied according to preference or dietary needs.
Serviervorschläge
Present your snowflake crackers alongside triple-cream cheeses, tangy chutneys, or fresh fruit preserves. These crackers pair wonderfully with sparkling wine or dry white wines, making for an elegant and festive appetizer board.
Save With these snowy crackers standing out on your festive table, your guests will enjoy every crunchy bite. The charming shapes and rich flavors offer a perfect start to any holiday celebration, inspiring warmth and sophisticated indulgence.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of flour is best for these crackers?
All-purpose flour provides the right balance of structure and tenderness, helping achieve a crisp yet delicate texture in the crackers.
- → Can I use herbs to flavor the dough?
Yes, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, or even fresh thyme can be incorporated to add aromatic layers to the buttery dough.
- → How do I ensure the crackers bake evenly?
Roll the dough to an even thickness and rotate baking sheets halfway through baking for consistent golden color and crispness.
- → Is there a suggested way to garnish these crackers?
Sprinkling flaky sea salt and either sesame or poppy seeds before baking adds visual appeal and a subtle crunch enhancement.
- → How should the crackers be stored to maintain freshness?
Once completely cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them crisp.