These delicious Rice Krispies Cheese Crackers bake to a crispy, crumbly texture, similar to cheese straws, and are great alone or with a charcuterie board. Just 4 simple ingredients and some spices and you'll have these cheese crisps on your table in no time.
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Tasty Appetizers and Snacks
Wondering what to feed the crowd? Well, I’ve got you covered with these crispy cheese rice crackers, with a texture and taste similar to cheese straws, that you can top with just about anything. They're easy to make and have just a little kick to them!
I love to serve appetizers for get-togethers and these crispy cheese wafers are the perfect complement to my Pesto Bruschetta, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, and Smoked Fish Dip.
Why You'll Love These Cheese Crispies
There’s something incredibly comforting about the blend of cheese and crispy textures. Whether you're a fan of cheesy snacks or looking for a new treat, these Rice Krispies Cheese Crispies (or cheese crackers, cheddar crackers, wafers, cookies... whatever you like to call them!) are about to become your next favorite snack.
Made with simple everyday ingredients, I promise you’ll fall head over heels for these cheesy delights. Check out why I can't resist them.
- Cheesy Goodness: With a generous dose of sharp cheddar, each bite packs a rich, cheesy flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect Crunch: The Rice Krispies give these crackers an irresistible crunch, making them a satisfying snack at any time of the day.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper, and give them the kick to match your preference.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: No fancy ingredients, just straightforward, pantry staples that come together to create something spectacular.
- Easy to Make: Whether you're a novice or a pro, this recipe is easy and fun to make. A perfect recipe for kids!
- Versatile: These crispies are not just for snacking; they're perfect as a crunchy side for soups, salads, or even crumbled over casseroles for added texture.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for this cheese cracker recipe with Rice Krispies. You'll find all the specifics in the printable recipe card below.
- Rice Krispies (or any puffed rice cereal): The addition of rice cereal gives these cheese bites a delicious crunch that makes them irresistible!
- Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This grated cheese is the hero of the recipe, offering a rich depth of flavor.
- All Purpose Flour: is the base of the cracker dough, ensuring your crispies hold their shape and texture.
- Black Pepper & Cayenne Pepper: These spices add a gentle heat that you can customize to your heat preference.
- Garlic Powder: For a subtle hint of garlic that rounds out the cheesy goodness.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
- Butter: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness and flavor.
How To Make Cheese Crackers with Rice Krispies
With just a few easy steps you'll transform a handful of simple ingredients into these "can't resist", crispy cheesy Cheese Crackers with Rice Krispies. They're a super tasty snack that will disappear as quickly as they come out of the oven.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, cheddar cheese, Rice Krispies, and all the seasonings.
- Stir well then add 1 cup butter. Dive in with your hands, combining everything until the mixture sticks together. This creates a stiff dough.
- Taking small portions of the cheese mixture, roll them gently into small balls about 1½ inches in diameter.
- Arrange the balls of dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. They won't spread much so just a little room is needed. Press them down gently with a fork dipped in water, creating a criss-cross pattern on top, similar to preparing peanut butter cookies.
- Bake in the oven at 375°F for 12-14 minutes or until they are a light golden brown color. Cool on sheets for 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely creating that perfect crispy texture.
I love making these Rice Krispies Cheese Crispies. They're so easy and have such an irresistibly crunchy, cheesy flavor. I serve them as a side for salads, grab for an afternoon snack, or for casual get-togethers.
They're great as is, as an addition to cheese boards, and make the perfect cracker for topping with your favorite spread. Just an FYI, I usually make a double batch of this crunchy snack because they fly off the plate. Enjoy!
Recipe Variations for Personalizing Your Crackers
Here are a few variations to inspire your next batch. Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own unique snack masterpiece!
- Cheese, Please: While sharp cheddar offers a classic, bold flavor, don’t hesitate to mix things up with different types of cheese. Try parmesan for a nutty, salty twist, smoked gouda for more depth of flavor, or Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste.
- Go Nuts: Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts introduces a wonderful texture and a hint of earthy flavor. Stir in a half cup in with the Rice Krispies for an extra crunch that complements the cheese beautifully.
- Herb It Up: Fresh or dried herbs can enhance your crackers flavor. Try adding a teaspoon of chopped fresh or dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Spice World: For those who love a fiery kick, substitute the cayenne pepper for chili powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of curry powder for a spicy twist.
- Seed Sensation: For a nutty flavor and added nutrition, mix in some seeds like sesame, poppy, or sunflower seeds. They’ll add a delightful crunch.
How to Store Rice Krispie Cheese Crackers and How Long They Last
Storing: Place the crackers in an airtight container and store them at room temperature. They will last up to 1 week.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container or plastic freezer bag for up to 4 months.
More Recipes for Tasty Snacks
- Banana Snack Cake
- Gluten Free Chex Mix
- Lemon Rice Krispie Treats
- Nutella Puppy Chow
- S'mores Rice Krispie Treats
Find lots of awesome and easy recipes for appetizers and snacks right here on 2CM!
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Rice Krispies Cheese Crackers
Ingredients
- 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 cups Rice Krispies or other puffed rice cereal
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper add more or less to match your desired kick
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup butter room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mat.
- In a large bowl, place cheese, rice krispies, flour, and spices. Stir well then mix in butter. Use your hands and work the dough until it holds together.
- Form into 1 ½" diameter balls, rolling them in your hand.
- Place on prepared cookie sheets. Press down in a criss-cross pattern with a fork that has been dipped in water.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Let crackers cool for about 10 minutes on cookie sheets then remove to wire racks and let cool completely.
- When cool, place in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 1 week. Or freeze for up to 4 months.
Notes
Nutrition
This post has been updated with an improved recipe, new photos, and more helpful information. It was first published on March 21, 2018.
