Brazil Nut Free Classic Saltine Crackers
There is something deeply satisfying about making your own crackers from scratch, and these classic saltines deliver that perfect thin, crispy snap that store-bought versions only sometimes manage to nail. The ingredient list is refreshingly simple — just flour, a little fat, water, and salt — so you know exactly what's going into every batch without having to squint at a label wondering about shared facilities or mystery additives. Working the cold shortening or butter into the flour by hand is oddly meditative, and that 30-minute rest gives the dough just enough time to relax so it rolls out beautifully thin. The real secret is getting that dough as close to translucent as possible before cutting, because the thinner the sheet, the more satisfying the crunch. Docking each square all the way through to the parchment isn't just for looks — it's what keeps them flat and gives you that iconic cracker texture. A light brush of melted butter and a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking takes these from humble to genuinely craveable. Let them cool completely on the rack and they'll crisp up even further, making them perfect for cheese boards, soups, or just eating straight off the pan.
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Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp fine salt
- ½ tsp granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp vegetable shortening butter or unsalted butter, cold butter and cut into small pieces
- ½ cup cold water
For brushing
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For topping
- ½ tsp flaky sea salt or coarse salt
Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, fine salt, and sugar until evenly combined.
- 2
Add the cold shortening (or butter pieces) to the flour mixture and work it in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse, slightly sandy crumbs with no large pieces remaining.
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