Save Celebrate the festive season with these exquisite Gourmet Crackers shaped like delicate snowflakes. Their golden, flaky texture and buttery richness make them the perfect centerpiece for holiday appetizer spreads or elegant cheese boards. Crisp and flavorful, these crackers are crafted with a blend of fine ingredients and customizable seasonings that elevate every bite, making your gatherings unforgettable.
Save These crackers strike the ideal balance between savory and delicate, offering a versatile base for your favorite toppings. Whether seasoned with rosemary and black pepper or enriched with aged cheddar, each bite is a delightful crunch that complements any spread. Rolling and cutting these snowflakes is a fun holiday activity and results in an elegant presentation that impresses guests.
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 all crackers bake uniformly crispy. Handle the dough gently to maintain tenderness without overworking it. Using cold butter and water helps achieve the perfect flaky texture that melts in your mouth.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Try adding parmesan, zaatar, or dried thyme to the dough for exciting flavor variations. Substitute or combine seeds to customize your garnish, and consider incorporating finely grated aged cheddar for a richer taste if desired.
Serviervorschläge
Present these elegant snowflake crackers alongside triple-cream cheeses, tangy chutneys, or a variety of fresh fruits. Pair with sparkling wine for an elevated holiday appetizer experience that is sure to impress.
Save With these simple steps and a touch of festive spirit, you can create a stunning snowflake cracker board that brings elegance and warmth to any celebration. Enjoy the process and delight in sharing these crunchy, buttery treats with your loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
- → What flour works best for these crackers?
All-purpose flour provides the right balance of structure and crispness for these crackers.
- → Can I customize the flavors?
Yes, herbs like rosemary or spices such as smoked paprika can be mixed into the dough for varied taste profiles.
- → How thin should the dough be rolled?
Roll the dough to about 1/8 inch thick for optimal crispness and delicate texture.
- → What topping options enhance the crackers?
Brushing with egg wash and sprinkling flaky sea salt adds texture, while sesame or poppy seeds add visual appeal and subtle flavor.
- → How should I store the crackers after baking?
Keep cooled crackers in an airtight container to preserve their crispness for up to one week.