I’m always so impressed when I’m at a dinner party and the host brings out a batch of homemade cheese straws to serve with cocktails in place of a big, heavy appetizer. That’s why I created these simple but elegant parmesan thyme crackers. They’re the perfect small bite to nibble on before a big Italian meal.
Plus, these homemade crackers have the best texture, big flavor (hello parmesan and thyme) and they’re super easy to thanks to my quick buttery cracker dough.
Double plus? They are so good scooped into a creamy mascarpone dip.
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A crunchy cracker solution
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Want to know what it is? This easy cracker recipe gets its crunch from two things…a proper baking time/temperature combo and…cornmeal!
I figured since cornmeal adds an amazing crunch to the bottom of a homemade pizza crust, why not employ the same technique by mixing it into the cracker dough?
And the baking time and temperature was tested a couple of different ways.
First, I baked the crackers at 325˚ for only 10 minutes but didn’t get the crunch I wanted.
Baking them for another 15 minutes did the trick and gave me a thicker, firm cornmeal cracker that resembled my favorite whole wheat crackers from Carr’s. So delicious on their own but totally welcoming to any kind of toppings.
Ready to see how it’s done?
Tips for successful cracker making
How to make homemade parmesan thyme crackers
This is such an easy appetizer recipe we are going to get right to making it. After all, you’ve got a party to plan!
Here’s what you’ll do:
Make ahead notes
- Make the cracker dough ahead and shape into two logs. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Defrost enough so that you can cut it before following baking instructions.
- Or…bake the crackers as in the recipe card below, allow them to cool completely before placing in a freezer safe bag.
- Freeze up to 3 months.
- To defrost, open the bag (to avoid the crackers becoming soggy) and bring to room temp. Place on a baking sheet in a 300˚ oven for a few minutes until crispy again.
Serving, storage and freezing suggestions
Serving Idea. Serve with a mild, spreadable cheese such as a brie or triple cream Saint Andre and some red grapes for a simple cocktail party appetizer.
Storage. Store leftover crackers in resealable plastic bag for up to 3 days.
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Homemade Parmesan Thyme Crackers
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Ingredients
- 1 ½ cup flour
- ¼ cup cornmeal
- 1 stick butter
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 T water
Instructions
- Combine flour and cornmeal. stir in salt. add butter with mixer until coarse crumbs form. Add 1 Tablespooon water until dough forms and comes together. Add in thyme ,parmesan cheese and cayenne plus more water as needed.
- Roll into 2″ log using plastic wrap. Use a serrated knife to slice into 1/4″ thick crackers.
- Place on baking sheet and bake at 325˚ for 22-25 minutes on the center rack until slightly golden brown on top and firm.
