Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These crackers are quick to prepare, delightfully crunchy, and packed with cheesy goodness. The unique combination of Rice Krispies cereal and melted cheddar cheese creates a savory snack that stands out from the usual crackers or chips. Plus, you can easily customize them with your favorite cheeses and spices.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Melt and Mix the Cheesy Base:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then add the Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. - Add the Cereal:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Rice Krispies until all the cereal is evenly coated with the cheese mixture. - Shape and Bake:
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking sheet. Press it down evenly with a spatula to form a uniform layer. - Bake:
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. - Cool and Break:
Let the mixture cool completely, then break it into cracker-sized pieces.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: About 20 crackers
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for heat.
- Nutty: Mix in crushed pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds.
- Cheese Variety: Try Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack instead of cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
Store these crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To refresh their crunch, you can warm them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure your Rice Krispies cereal is certified gluten-free.
Can I freeze these crackers?
They’re best fresh, but you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to one month and re-crisp them in the oven before serving.
Can I add herbs to the mix?
Yes, dried thyme, parsley, or rosemary can add great flavor.
What’s a good dipping sauce for these?
Ranch, spicy mayo, or even marinara would pair well.
How do I get even cracker shapes?
Press the mixture into a baking sheet and score it with a knife before baking.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and a vegan cheese alternative, though the texture may vary.
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re a great lunchbox snack or after-school treat.
Can I make them ahead?
Yes, these keep well and maintain their crunch for several days.
Do I need a food processor?
Not at all—this recipe is simple enough with just a saucepan and spoon.
Conclusion
Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers are a fast, cheesy, and crispy snack you’ll want to make again and again. With just a few pantry staples and a quick bake, you can whip up a savory treat that’s as fun to eat as it is easy to prepare. Enjoy them on their own or as part of a party spread—they’re guaranteed to please.
Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers
Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers are a savory, crunchy snack combining sharp cheddar cheese, crispy rice cereal, and aromatic spices. These easy-to-make crackers are perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a flavorful treat anytime.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 20 crackers
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and fold in Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated.
- Press the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet using a spatula.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
- Cool completely, then break into cracker-sized pieces and serve.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting and better texture.
- To spice things up, add cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refresh in a 300°F oven for a few minutes if they lose their crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 crackers
- Calories: 113
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Sodium: 131mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 24mg