Gelatin Free Classic Saltine Crackers
Homemade crackers are one of those kitchen projects that feel far more impressive than the effort actually demands, and these classic saltines deliver that satisfying, light crunch that store-bought versions can never quite match. Many packaged crackers sneak in gelatin as a binder or coating agent, making the snack aisle a frustrating place to navigate — baking your own sidesteps that problem entirely with a short, clean ingredient list. The secret to getting that signature crisp snap is rolling the dough as thin as humanly possible, nearly translucent, so every bite shatters just the way it should. Docking each square all the way through to the parchment is what keeps them flat and gives them those iconic little holes, so don't skip that step. A brush of melted butter and a pinch of flaky sea salt right before baking adds just enough richness and savory depth to make these genuinely craveable on their own. They're equally at home alongside a bowl of soup, loaded with cheese and charcuterie, or eaten straight off the cooling rack — which, honestly, is the most likely outcome.
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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 or unsalted butter, cold 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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