This is so fun to do with your kids – fast, and easy! Homemade Goldfish Crackers

Goldfish crackers have been a popular snack for many years. They are a classic snack that has been enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. However, have you ever thought about making your own homemade goldfish crackers? Not only is it a fun activity to do with family and friends, but it is also a great way to control the ingredients that go into your snack.

Making homemade goldfish crackers is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a batch of these delicious crackers in no time. The recipe requires flour, cheddar cheese, butter, salt, and water. You can also add different seasonings to the dough to give your crackers a unique flavor. This recipe is perfect for those who want to make a healthier version of their favorite snack or for those who simply enjoy baking and trying new recipes.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Using a Food Processor

Making homemade goldfish crackers requires some basic equipment, and a food processor is one of the most important. The food processor will be used to mix the dough and create the signature fish shape of the crackers. It is recommended to use a food processor with a large bowl and a sharp blade for the best results.

Rolling and Cutting the Dough

After the dough is mixed in the food processor, it needs to be rolled out and cut into the desired shape. A rolling pin and a fish cookie cutter are necessary for this step. The dough should be rolled out to about 1/8 inch thickness for the perfect texture. The fish cookie cutter should be dipped in flour to prevent sticking and pressed firmly into the dough to create the fish shape.

Prepping the Baking Sheet

Before baking the goldfish crackers, it is important to prepare the baking sheet properly. Parchment paper is recommended to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. The baking sheet should be lined with parchment paper and the goldfish crackers should be placed on it with some space between them to prevent them from sticking together during baking.

Overall, making homemade goldfish crackers requires some basic equipment and preparation, but it is a fun and rewarding activity that can be enjoyed by all ages.

Baking Process

Mixing the Dough

To start the baking process for homemade Goldfish crackers, one must first mix the dough. This can be done by combining flour, salt, baking powder, and cheese in a food processor. Then, add in butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Gradually add in cold water and continue pulsing until the dough comes together. The dough should be wrapped in plastic wrap and chilled for at least 30 minutes before shaping.

Shaping the Crackers

After the dough has chilled, it is time to shape the crackers. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about ? inch thick. Using a small fish-shaped cookie cutter, cut out the crackers and place them on the prepared baking sheets. The crackers should be placed about ½ inch apart to allow for even baking.

Baking to Perfection

Once all the crackers have been shaped and placed on the baking sheets, it is time to bake them to perfection. Bake the crackers for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and crispy. To ensure that the crackers are fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the center of a cracker. If the toothpick comes out clean, the crackers are done. Remove the crackers from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

The total time for baking homemade Goldfish crackers is about 1 hour, which includes 30 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cook time per batch. It is important to use baking sheets that are lined with parchment paper to prevent the crackers from sticking. By following these simple steps, anyone can make delicious homemade Goldfish crackers that are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once the homemade goldfish crackers are ready, it's important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and crispiness. Here are some storage and serving suggestions:

• Store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure to keep them away from moisture and direct sunlight.
• If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze the crackers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
• These crackers make a great snack on their own, but you can also use them as a base for other snack recipes. For example, you can top them with cheese, hummus, or peanut butter for a more filling snack.
• Homemade versions of popular snacks like goldfish crackers are a great way to control the quality of ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Plus, they can be a fun activity to do with kids or friends.
• The yield of this recipe is approximately 6 cups of crackers, depending on the size of your cookie cutter. This should be enough for several servings or to share with others.

By following these storage and serving suggestions, you can enjoy these homemade goldfish crackers for days to come.