Homemade Goldfish Crackers Recipe

If you have ever loved the classic snack, you’re going to adore these Homemade Goldfish Crackers. They are cheesy, crunchy, and so incredibly satisfying with every bite. Best of all, making Homemade Goldfish Crackers is a fun and approachable project that turns simple pantry staples into a delightful treat. Whether you shape them like little fish or get creative with other forms, this recipe brings that nostalgic flavor home with a fresh, homemade twist that you will want to share with everyone you know.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, straightforward ingredients are key to getting that perfect blend of flavor, texture, and color in your Homemade Goldfish Crackers. Each one plays a crucial role, from the sharp cheddar that brings bold cheesiness to the spices that add a subtle kick.

• Sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz): Using finely grated sharp cheddar ensures an intense cheesy flavor and a rich golden color.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides the base structure for those crisp crackers.
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors beautifully without overpowering.
• Sugar (1 teaspoon): Just a hint to balance the savory notes perfectly.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the crackers puff ever so slightly for a delightful crunch.
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a touch of warmth and subtle smoky flavor.
• Celery salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings in a savory, herby depth that’s just right.
• Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Complements the cheese with gentle aromatic flair.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, chilled): Gives a flaky texture that melts in your mouth.
• Cold water (4-5 tablespoons): Binds everything together for perfect dough consistency.
• Goldfish cookie cutter (optional): To bring those iconic shapes to life, or get creative with your own favorite designs!

How to Make Homemade Goldfish Crackers

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese

Start by finely shredding your sharp cheddar cheese and then pulsing it in a food processor until it’s chopped finely. This step makes sure the cheese melts evenly in the dough, giving you those irresistibly cheesy bites that make Homemade Goldfish Crackers stand out.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, add in your all-purpose flour, kosher salt, sugar, baking powder, paprika, celery salt, and onion powder to the cheese in the food processor. Give everything a few pulses until it’s uniformly mixed. This combination balances the spice and salt, creating a savory base with a bit of depth and warmth.

Step 3: Add Butter and Water

Incorporate the chilled butter and four tablespoons of cold water into the mixture and pulse a few more times. The butter’s cold temperature is crucial for creating a tender, flaky texture, while the cold water brings everything together without warming the dough.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the mixture onto your work surface and knead it gently until the dough comes together in one cohesive ball. If the dough feels crumbly, add more cold water one tablespoon at a time until it holds. Then, divide the dough into two discs about an inch thick, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour to let it rest and firm up.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350˚F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out each dough disc on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 9-10 by 11 inches, about 1/8 inch thick. Use a goldfish-shaped cookie cutter to stamp out crackers and transfer them carefully to your baking sheets. Don’t forget to sprinkle a pinch of salt on top before baking to bump up the flavor!

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the crackers for 14 to 16 minutes until the bottoms turn a beautiful light brown. This is key for achieving crunch and a satisfying snap. Let them cool entirely on the baking sheets so they firm up as they cool, giving you that perfect texture with each bite of your Homemade Goldfish Crackers.

How to Serve Homemade Goldfish Crackers

Garnishes

While these crackers are delightful on their own, adding a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dash of smoked paprika right after baking can elevate their flavor even more. For a playful touch, press a fork tine gently into the crackers before baking to create eyes or a smiling face, just like the classic goldfish design.

Side Dishes

Pair Homemade Goldfish Crackers with your favorite dips like creamy ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, or a tangy cheese dip. They also make a fantastic crunchy contrast alongside fresh veggies and hummus for a wholesome snack experience that packs flavor and fun.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving these crackers in a colorful bowl during game night or packing them into little sandwich bags for lunchboxes makes snack time exciting and approachable. You can also decorate a party platter with different shaped crackers, adding edible food markers to draw smiles and faces for an adorable presentation kids love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, store your Homemade Goldfish Crackers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for about a week, making them the perfect make-ahead snack to enjoy anytime cravings strike.

Freezing

If you want to keep your crackers for longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled crackers in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw at room temperature and enjoy!

Reheating

If your crackers lose their crunch, don’t worry. Simply warm them in a preheated 300˚F oven for 3 to 5 minutes. This little step refreshes their crisp texture and revives their cheesy aroma, making them just like freshly baked again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for these crackers?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar offers the classic flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda, parmesan, or pepper jack for different tastes. Just be sure to shred them finely to incorporate well into the dough.

Do I have to use a goldfish-shaped cookie cutter?

Not at all! If you don’t have one, round biscuit cutters, bottle caps, or even cutting the dough into small squares works perfectly well. The taste remains fantastic regardless of shape.

How thick should I roll out the dough?

Roll the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. This thickness ensures the crackers bake evenly and become nicely crisp without being too fragile or doughy.

Can I make these crackers vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe calls for cheese and butter, so it’s naturally vegetarian. For vegan or dairy-free versions, try using plant-based cheddar alternatives and vegan butter, but be aware this may slightly change the texture and flavor.

Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut without sticking. It also helps the crackers maintain their shape during baking and contributes to that tender yet crisp texture you want in Homemade Goldfish Crackers.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about taking simple ingredients and turning them into Homemade Goldfish Crackers that bring smiles and nostalgia all in one crunchy bite. This recipe is a wonderful way to bond with family, experiment with shapes and flavors, and enjoy a snack that’s both comforting and uniquely yours. Give it a try—you’ll find these crackers quickly become a beloved go-to for snack time throughout the week!