Homemade Salt Crackers with Poppy Seeds and Cheese

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, grated cheese, poppy seeds, salt, garlic powder (if using), and dried thyme (if using). Stir to evenly distribute all the dry ingredients. Next, cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the bowl. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want the butter to be evenly incorporated but still in small pieces for that flaky texture.

#### Step 2: Add the Water
Gradually add the water, a tablespoon at a time, stirring with a spoon until the dough begins to come together. Depending on the humidity and type of flour you’re using, you may need slightly more or less water. The dough should be firm and not too sticky. If it feels too dry, add a little more water until it’s cohesive. Once it forms a dough, knead it a few times in the bowl to bring it all together.

#### Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin, then roll the dough out to about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner you roll the dough, the crispier your crackers will be. If the dough is too sticky, dust it lightly with a bit more flour as you roll. If the dough is hard to roll, let it rest for 10-15 minutes to relax.

#### Step 4: Cut the Crackers
Once your dough is rolled out, use a sharp knife, pizza cutter, or cookie cutter to cut it into squares, rectangles, or any shape you like. You can also make them rustic and freeform. Place the cut crackers onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring there’s a small gap between each piece to allow for even baking.

#### Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake
Brush the tops of the crackers lightly with olive oil. If you like, sprinkle a pinch of salt and a few sesame seeds (optional) on top for extra flavor and texture. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as crackers can burn quickly once they’re golden.

#### Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Serve the crackers as a snack on their own or with a variety of cheeses, dips, or spreads. These crackers pair wonderfully with hummus, guacamole, soft cheeses, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory contrast.

### Tips for Perfect Crackers

1. **Cheese Options**: While sharp cheddar is a popular choice, you can experiment with different types of cheese based on your taste preferences. Parmesan will add a nutty, salty flavor, while a softer cheese like Gruyère will result in a milder cracker. Vegan cheese can be used as a substitute for a dairy-free version.
2. **Flavors & Add-ins**: Feel free to get creative with flavors! You can add herbs like rosemary, basil, or oregano for a more Mediterranean flair. Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper will give your crackers a little heat and smokiness.
3. **Rolling Dough**: If you find rolling out the dough too tricky, you can also press the dough flat with your hands or use a tortilla press for a more uniform thickness.
4. **Storage**: These crackers will stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container. To keep them crisp, you can also place a silica packet or a slice of bread in the container to absorb any excess moisture.
5. **Make-Ahead**: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling and cutting.

### Why You’ll Love These Homemade Salt Crackers with Poppy Seeds and Cheese

– **Simple Ingredients**: These crackers are made with pantry staples, and you have full control over what goes into them, so you can avoid the preservatives and artificial ingredients often found in store-bought crackers.
– **Customizable**: This recipe is highly adaptable. You can change the cheese, adjust the seasoning, or add different seeds and herbs based on your preferences.
– **Perfect for Pairing**: These crackers make a great addition to any cheese platter, charcuterie board, or snack table. They pair beautifully with soft cheeses, spreads, and dips.
– **Crispy and Crunchy**: The texture is the star of the show here—crispy, crunchy, and perfectly satisfying with every bite.
– **Versatile**: While these crackers are ideal for savory snacks, you could even add a sprinkle of sugar and a dash of cinnamon to the dough for a sweet version that pairs with jam or fruit spreads.

### Conclusion

These *Homemade Salt Crackers with Poppy Seeds and Cheese* are the ideal snack to satisfy your cravings for something crunchy and savory. Whether enjoyed on their own or with your favorite toppings, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. By making your own crackers, you can indulge in a homemade, healthier alternative to the store-bought varieties. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the simple pleasure of these flavorful, crispy crackers.