Save Celebrate the spirit of the holidays with these elegant and buttery snowflake-shaped gourmet crackers. Their crisp texture and delicate design make them the ideal complement to any sophisticated cheese board or festive appetizer spread. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, these crackers bring a touch of whimsy and warmth to your gatherings.
Save This recipe brings together the perfect balance of flavor and form, showcasing not only a delightful taste but also an eye-catching presentation. Whether for holiday parties or intimate gatherings, these snowflake crackers elevate any appetizer board with their golden hue and delicate seasoning.
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
Ensure the butter remains cold throughout the mixing process to achieve the perfect flakiness. When rolling the dough, work quickly and lightly to maintain the texture. For an even bake, rotate the baking sheets halfway through the cooking time. Let the crackers cool fully on wire racks to preserve their crispness.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Customize your crackers by experimenting with additional herbs like thyme or zaatar, or by incorporating parmesan for a sharper taste. You can omit the cheese for a dairy-free version, or switch up the seeds for alternative garnishes. Tailor the spice blend to reflect your personal preference or seasonal ingredients.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these festive crackers alongside triple-cream cheeses, tangy chutneys, or fresh fruit for an elegant appetizer. They also pair beautifully with sparkling wines or cocktails, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere of any holiday gathering.
Save With its delicate shape and rich, buttery flavor, this snowflake cutout cracker recipe brings both flavor and festive charm to your gatherings. Perfectly paired with your favorite accompaniments, these crackers transform any appetizer board into an elegant celebration of the season.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What flour is best for these crackers?
All-purpose flour is ideal for achieving a tender yet crisp texture that holds the snowflake shape well.
- → Can I add cheese to the dough?
Yes, finely grated aged cheddar adds savory depth and complements the herb and spice flavors nicely.
- → How do I ensure crackers stay crisp?
Bake until golden and cool completely on wire racks to prevent moisture buildup.
- → What toppings work best for garnish?
Flaky sea salt, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds enhance texture and visual appeal without overpowering flavor.
- → Can I prepare dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerating the dough for up to 24 hours helps develop flavors and makes rolling easier.
- → What serving ideas pair well with these crackers?
They pair wonderfully with triple-cream cheeses, tangy chutneys, fruits, and sparkling wine for festive gatherings.