Homemade Ritz-Style Crackers

These buttery, flaky, and crisp crackers are inspired by classic Ritz crackers. They’re perfect for snacking, serving with cheese, or pairing with soups and dips.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 60–70 crackers

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• ¾ tsp fine salt
• 6 tbsp (85 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) cold water
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional, for the classic buttery flavor)

Topping

• 2 tbsp melted butter
• Fine sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the vegetable oil, cold water, and vanilla (if using) until a soft dough forms.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll the dough very thin (about ⅛ inch / 3 mm) on a lightly floured surface.
7. Cut into 2-inch (5 cm) rounds using a cookie cutter or the rim of a small glass.
8. Place the crackers on the prepared baking sheets and prick each one several times with a fork or skewer.
9. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
10. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Cool completely on a wire rack—the crackers will become even crispier as they cool.

Flavor Variations

• Garlic Herb: Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs to the dough.
• Cheddar: Mix ½ cup finely grated sharp cheddar into the flour before adding the butter.
• Everything Bagel: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.
• Parmesan: Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan to the dough for a savory twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Cheese and charcuterie boards
• Peanut butter or almond butter
• Tuna or chicken salad
• Cream cheese
• Hummus
• Spinach dip
• Tomato soup

Tips

• Roll the dough as evenly and thinly as possible for crisp crackers.
• Don’t overbake—they should be lightly golden, not dark brown.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• If they soften over time, crisp them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes before serving.

These homemade Ritz-style crackers are buttery, flaky, and wonderfully crisp—perfect for everyday snacking or entertaining guests.