Craving that classic Cheez-It crunch but want something more wholesome? These Gluten Free Cheez It Crackers are the crave-worthy, guilt-free answer to your snack dreams. Whether you’re following a clean eating plan or just looking for more plant-based snacks, this recipe brings all the flavor and none of the junk.
Made with simple ingredients and no dairy, these homemade vegan crackers are crispy, cheesy (without the cheese!), and totally addictive. They’re perfect for kids’ lunchboxes, afternoon cravings, or even your weekly meal prep routine. This is clean comfort food done right—and it only takes 5 easy steps to make. Ready to snack smarter? Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love These Gluten Free Cheez It Crackers
1. Cheesy Flavor Without Dairy
These Cheez It Crackers bring you that bold, savory flavor you love—without a single drop of cheese. Thanks to nutritional yeast and just the right blend of seasonings, you’ll get that addictive cheesy flavor without dairy. It’s the perfect fix for those craving a nostalgic snack with a plant-based upgrade. Try pairing these with our Vegan Hidden Valley Ranch Dip for an extra flavor boost.
2. Irresistible Crunch in Every Bite
Texture is everything when it comes to snacking, and these crackers deliver. Each one bakes up golden and crisp, offering that satisfying crunch that makes it hard to stop at just a few. If you’re looking for a crunchy plant-based snack, this recipe has your back.
3. A Healthier Way to Snack
Made with wholesome, simple ingredients, these are truly healthy gluten-free snacks. There’s no refined flour, no preservatives, and no artificial flavors—just clean, nourishing components you can feel good about. They fit beautifully into a clean eating lifestyle without compromising on flavor. For more healthy snack ideas, check out our Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies.
4. Allergen-Friendly and Kid-Approved
Whether you’re avoiding gluten, dairy, or animal products, these crackers are a safe and tasty option. With a base of almond flour and no eggs or dairy, they’re allergen-conscious and totally plant-based. Even picky eaters love them, making them a win for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Gluten Free Cheez It Crackers, you only need a handful of pantry staples. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that signature flavor and crisp texture you expect from a great plant-based snack.
- Almond flour – This forms the base of the crackers, giving them a tender crunch while keeping the recipe naturally gluten-free. (Use blanched almond flour for the smoothest texture.)
- Nutritional yeast – The secret to that classic cheesy flavor without dairy. It adds a savory, umami taste that makes these vegan crackers seriously addictive.
- Olive oil – Helps bind the dough and gives the crackers a rich, satisfying mouthfeel. (You can also use avocado oil or melted coconut oil if preferred.)
- Tapioca starch – Provides structure and crispiness, helping the crackers bake up light and crunchy. (Arrowroot starch or cornstarch can be used as a substitute.)
- Sea salt – Enhances the overall flavor and gives these Cheez It Crackers that familiar salty finish. (Feel free to sprinkle extra on top before baking for added punch.)
These simple ingredients come together quickly and allow for a lot of flexibility if you’re working with what you already have in your plant-based pantry. For high-quality almond flour, check out this almond flour on Amazon.
Tools You’ll Need
Making homemade Cheez It Crackers is simple, but having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Baking sheet – Essential for baking the crackers evenly. (Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.)
- Food processor – Speeds up mixing the dough and ensures all ingredients are blended evenly. (You can mix by hand, but a processor gives better consistency.)
- Rolling pin – Helps you roll out the dough thin enough for that perfect cracker crunch. (A glass bottle or smooth jar can work in a pinch.)
These basic kitchen tools help you achieve that classic texture and crisp finish that make Cheez It Crackers so satisfying. For a reliable baking sheet, consider this baking sheet from Amazon.
How to Make Gluten-Free Cheez It Crackers (5 Easy Steps)
Making your own Gluten Free Cheez It Crackers at home is easier than you might think. These five simple steps will take you from mixing to snacking in no time.
- Blend the dry ingredients
In a food processor, combine almond flour, nutritional yeast, tapioca starch, and sea salt. Pulse until well mixed. (Tip: Be sure to measure your dry ingredients accurately for the best dough texture.) - Add the wet ingredients
Pour in the olive oil and a splash of water. Blend until a soft dough forms. (Tip: If the dough feels dry or crumbly, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time until it holds together.) - Roll out the dough
Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. (Tip: The thinner you roll, the crispier your crackers will be.) - Cut and shape the crackers
Remove the top sheet of parchment. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice the dough into small squares. (Tip: For that classic Cheez It Crackers look, poke a small hole in the center of each square with a skewer or toothpick.) - Bake to golden perfection
Transfer the parchment with the cut dough onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes or until the crackers are lightly golden and crisp. (Tip: Keep a close eye on them in the last few minutes—edges brown quickly.)
Once cooled, your homemade Cheez It Crackers are ready to enjoy. Store them in an airtight container to keep them crunchy for days.
Expert Tips for Perfect Vegan Crackers
Want your Gluten Free Cheez It Crackers to turn out just right every time? These expert-approved tips will help you master the texture, flavor, and crunch you’re craving.
1. Don’t Over-Mix the Dough
When making no cheese vegan crackers, it’s important to mix the dough just until it comes together. Over-mixing can lead to tough or dense crackers. Keep it quick and gentle for the best texture.
2. Roll the Dough Evenly
An uneven surface means some crackers may burn while others stay soft. For evenly baked vegan crackers, use parchment paper to help roll the dough to a uniform thickness—about 1/8 inch is ideal.
3. Bake a Test Batch First
Every oven is a little different. Bake a few crackers first to test crispness and adjust time if needed. This small step can help you avoid over- or under-baking your full batch of crispy gluten-free snacks.
4. Cool Completely Before Storing
Trapping heat or moisture can make your crackers soggy. Let your Cheez It Crackers cool on a wire rack before storing in an airtight container to keep them crisp for days.
5. If Your Crackers Are Soft…
They may be too thick or underbaked. Return them to the oven for 2–3 extra minutes. Keep an eye on the color—golden edges are a good sign they’re done.
These simple steps can make the difference between a decent batch and truly crave-worthy, plant-based perfection. For more vegan baking tips, explore our Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
Coconut flour isn’t a direct substitute for almond flour in this recipe. It absorbs much more liquid and would create a dry, crumbly texture. For the best results, stick with almond flour to keep your Gluten Free Cheez It Crackers light and crisp.
2. What makes these crackers cheesy without dairy?
Nutritional yeast is the star ingredient here. It adds a rich, savory flavor that mimics cheese, making these no cheese vegan crackers totally satisfying without any dairy.
3. Are these gluten free Cheez It crackers kid-friendly?
Yes, absolutely. They have a familiar flavor and fun bite-sized shape that kids love. Plus, they’re free from common allergens and made with clean, simple ingredients—perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.
4. How long do homemade vegan crackers stay crispy?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these baked vegan crackers stay crispy for up to 5 days. Make sure they’re fully cooled before storing to avoid trapping moisture, which can soften them.
Conclusion
These Gluten Free Cheez It Crackers prove that snack time can be both delicious and nourishing. With just a few simple ingredients and five easy steps, you can enjoy a crunchy, cheesy bite without the dairy or gluten. They’re perfect for plant-based eaters, clean snackers, and even picky kids.
We’d love to hear from you—what’s your favorite way to enjoy these crackers? Do you dip them, top them with spreads like our Vegan Bang Bang Sauce, or snack on them straight from the jar? Leave a comment below and share your favorite cracker toppings.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to pin it for later or share it with your friends on social media. Let’s spread the love for homemade plant-based snacks, one cracker at a time. For more plant-based recipes, visit Toss Recipes.
1 thought on “Gluten Free Cheez It Crackers Recipe: 5 Easy Steps”