Crispy Cheeto Cheese Crackers (Printable Version)

Cheesy, crunchy crackers combining crushed Cheetos with sharp cheddar for an irresistible party snack.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Cheese Mixture

01 - 1 1/2 cups Cheetos, finely crushed (about 2 cups whole)
02 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
04 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Dough

07 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
08 - 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
09 - 2-3 tablespoons cold water

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, combine crushed Cheetos, grated cheddar, softened butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Mix until thoroughly incorporated.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder until evenly distributed.
04 - Add flour mixture to cheese mixture. Stir until a coarse, crumbly dough forms.
05 - Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until dough just comes together. The dough should be firm but not sticky.
06 - Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness between two sheets of parchment paper.
07 - Cut into 1-inch squares or use a small cookie cutter. Transfer to prepared baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
08 - Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • These crackers have that unmistakable Cheeto flavor but with the satisfying snap of a proper homemade cracker - its like capturing lightning in a bottle.
  • The dough comes together in minutes with ingredients you probably already have, making it my go-to when unexpected guests text theyre 15 minutes away.
02 -
  • The dough might seem too dry at first, but resist adding extra water too quickly - give it a minute of kneading before deciding.
  • If your crackers arent crispy enough after cooling, you can return them to a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to dry them out further without burning.
03 -
  • For the most vivid orange color and intense flavor, use the brightest Cheetos you can find - those slightly radioactive-looking ones work best.
  • If your kitchen runs warm, chill the cut crackers in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape and develop flakier layers.
Go Back