Ever Craved a Crunchy, Savory Snack Without Sugar or Butter?
Imagine biting into a light, crispy cracker bursting with the savory flavors of green onion and toasted sesame seeds, made with simple, wholesome ingredients and no sugar or butter in sight. Sounds like the perfect guilt-free snack, right? That’s exactly what this No-Sugar, No-Butter Crackers Recipe delivers! This easy recipe yields a batch of savory crackers, ideal for snacking, pairing with dips, or serving at gatherings. With a straightforward process and minimal ingredients, these crackers are beginner-friendly and perfect for those seeking a healthier, flavorful treat. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through every step to create these crispy delights, with tips to ensure a perfect crunch and bold flavor. Ready to bake some savory magic? Let’s get started!
Overview: Why These Crackers Shine
This Crackers Recipe is a light, crispy, and savory snack made without sugar or butter, using corn oil and milk for moisture and low-gluten flour for a tender texture. Infused with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, these crackers offer a delightful savory flavor that’s perfect for healthy snacking or pairing with hummus, cheese, or spreads. The recipe is easy to make, requires no special equipment, and delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Ideal for casual snacking, parties, or lunchbox treats, these crackers are a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
- Time Requirement: 10 minutes prep, 20 minutes resting, 15 minutes baking. Total: ~45 minutes.
- Difficulty Level: Easy. Simple mixing, kneading, and baking make it perfect for beginners.
- Why It’s Special: Yields a batch of crispy, savory crackers, free of sugar and butter, with bold green onion and sesame flavors.
- Health Perks: Low-gluten flour and corn oil make these crackers lighter; green onions and sesame seeds add nutrients like vitamins and healthy fats, but enjoy in moderation due to sodium.
Grab your mixing bowl and rolling pin, and let’s bake some crunchy, savory crackers!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients for a healthy, flavorful result. Here’s what you need and why each matters:
- Low-Gluten Flour (1¾ cups, 225 g): The base for tender crackers.
- Why it matters: Low-gluten flour (e.g., cake flour or pastry flour) ensures a light, crisp texture.
- Substitution: Use all-purpose flour (reduce to 1½ cups + 2 tbsp for similar tenderness) or a gluten-free blend for gluten-free crackers.
- Corn Oil (3 tbsp, 45 g): Adds moisture without butter.
- Why it matters: Keeps crackers tender and crisp while being lighter than butter.
- Substitution: Use olive oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil for similar results.
- Milk (1/3 cup + 1 tbsp, 90 g): Binds the dough and adds richness.
- Why it matters: Provides moisture and a subtle creamy flavor.
- Substitution: Use plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, or soy) for dairy-free or water for a plainer flavor.
- Yeast (1 tsp, 3 g): Adds a slight rise and flavor.
- Why it matters: Gives crackers a light, airy texture without heavy leavening.
- Substitution: Use instant yeast or skip for denser crackers (increase baking soda to ½ tsp).
- Baking Soda (1/4 tsp, 1.5 g): Helps with browning and crispness.
- Why it matters: Ensures a golden, crispy finish without puffing too much.
- Substitution: Use 1/8 tsp baking powder, but texture may vary slightly.
- Salt (1/3 tsp, 2 g): Enhances savory flavor.
- Why it matters: Balances the green onion and sesame for a bold taste.
- Substitution: Use sea salt or reduce to 1/4 tsp for lower sodium.
- Chopped Green Onion (1/4 cup, 32 g): Adds savory, fresh flavor.
- Why it matters: Infuses crackers with a mild oniony kick and vibrant color.
- Substitution: Use chives, dried onion flakes, or skip for a plainer cracker.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp, 12 g): Add nutty crunch.
- Why it matters: Provide texture and a toasty, savory depth.
- Substitution: Use poppy seeds, chia seeds, or crushed nuts for a different crunch.
Pro Tip: Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden for maximum flavor. Use fresh green onions for the best taste and color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making No-Sugar, No-Butter Crackers is simple with straightforward mixing, kneading, and baking steps. Follow these for perfect, crispy crackers:
- Mix the Dough Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tbsp corn oil, 1/3 cup + 1 tbsp milk, and 1/3 tsp salt, stirring until well blended.
- Gradually add 1¾ cups low-gluten flour, 1 tsp yeast, and 1/4 tsp baking soda, stirring with a spoon or spatula until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
- Tip: Add flour slowly to avoid clumps; stir until just combined to keep the dough tender.
- Add Flavorings and Knead:
- Add 1/4 cup chopped green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds to the crumbly mixture.
- Knead the mixture by hand for 2-3 minutes until it forms a smooth, cohesive dough.
- Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let rest for 20 minutes at room temperature.
- Tip: Knead gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can make crackers tough; the dough should be soft but not sticky.
- Shape the Crackers:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the rested dough into a thin sheet (about 1/8 inch thick) using a rolling pin.
- Use a fork to poke small holes across the surface to prevent puffing during baking.
- Cut the dough into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles, or rounds) using a knife, pizza cutter, or cookie cutter.
- Tip: Roll evenly for consistent baking; transfer cut crackers to a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Bake the Crackers:
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F) with a rack in the center.
- Place the cut crackers on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy, rotating the tray halfway through for even baking.
- Let cool completely on a wire rack to maximize crispness.
- Tip: Check at 12 minutes to avoid over-browning; thinner crackers may bake faster.
- Serve:
- Serve the crackers as a snack, with dips like hummus or guacamole, or alongside cheese or soup.
- Health Benefit: Low-gluten flour and corn oil make these lighter; green onions and sesame seeds add vitamins and healthy fats, but enjoy in moderation due to sodium!
Assembly: Building Your Crackers
These crackers are all about achieving a light, crispy texture with bold savory flavors. Here’s how to make them perfect:
- Mix for Texture:
- Combine wet and dry ingredients gradually to achieve a crumbly texture before kneading.
- Tip: Use a fork to mix initially if the dough feels sticky; adjust with a sprinkle of flour if needed.
- Knead and Rest:
- Knead just until smooth to keep crackers tender; rest the dough to relax the gluten for easier rolling.
- Presentation Tip: Ensure green onions and sesame seeds are evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
- Roll and Cut Evenly:
- Roll dough to a uniform thickness for even baking; cut into consistent shapes for a professional look.
- Presentation Tip: Use a ruler for precise squares or a round cutter for uniform circles.
- Bake for Crispness:
- Poke holes to prevent puffing and bake until golden for maximum crunch.
- Presentation Tip: Cool completely before storing to maintain crisp texture.
Serving Suggestion: Serve on a platter with a variety of dips (e.g., hummus, salsa, or cheese spread) or pair with a light soup or salad. For a fun twist, sprinkle with extra sesame seeds before baking for added flair!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
No-Sugar, No-Butter Crackers are perfect for prepping ahead:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- Tip: Add a silica packet (food-safe) to the container to maintain crispness in humid conditions.
- Freezing:
- Freeze baked crackers in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month; thaw at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
- Freeze unbaked dough (wrapped tightly) for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.
- Tip: Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
- Make-Ahead:
- Prepare the dough up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate wrapped tightly and let come to room temperature before rolling.
- Bake crackers up to 3 days ahead for maximum freshness; store in an airtight container.
- Tip: Chop green onions and toast sesame seeds in advance to streamline prep.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Try these fun twists on No-Sugar, No-Butter Crackers:
- Herb-Infused Crackers: Add 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme to the dough for an herby kick.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in 1/4 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy version; reduce green onions to 2 tbsp.
- Cheese Crackers: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast (for vegan) to the dough for a cheesy flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based milk (e.g., almond or soy) and ensure yeast is vegan; the recipe is naturally butter-free.
- Everything Bagel Style: Replace sesame seeds with 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning for a trendy flavor.
Quick Prep Tip: Use a food processor to mix the dough for faster prep; pulse until crumbly, then knead by hand.
Conclusion
Your No-Sugar, No-Butter Crackers are ready to bring light, crispy, savory joy to your snack game! With the bold flavors of green onion and toasted sesame seeds, these crackers are perfect for healthy snacking, parties, or pairing with your favorite dips. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try a variation, you’re in for a treat that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. Grab your rolling pin, bake some crunchy magic, and enjoy every savory bite. We’d love to see your creations—share your photos or tips in the comments or on social media with #crackers #snacks! Happy baking!
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Crackers Recipe
Description
Imagine biting into a light, crispy cracker bursting with the savory flavors of green onion and toasted sesame seeds, made with simple, wholesome ingredients and no sugar or butter in sight. Sounds like the perfect guilt-free snack, right? That’s exactly what this No-Sugar, No-Butter Crackers Recipe delivers! This easy recipe yields a batch of savory crackers, ideal for snacking, pairing with dips, or serving at gatherings
Ingredients
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients for a healthy, flavorful result. Here’s what you need and why each matters:
- Low-Gluten Flour (1¾ cups, 225 g): The base for tender crackers.
- Why it matters: Low-gluten flour (e.g., cake flour or pastry flour) ensures a light, crisp texture.
- Substitution: Use all-purpose flour (reduce to 1½ cups + 2 tbsp for similar tenderness) or a gluten-free blend for gluten-free crackers.
- Corn Oil (3 tbsp, 45 g): Adds moisture without butter.
- Why it matters: Keeps crackers tender and crisp while being lighter than butter.
- Substitution: Use olive oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil for similar results.
- Milk (1/3 cup + 1 tbsp, 90 g): Binds the dough and adds richness.
- Why it matters: Provides moisture and a subtle creamy flavor.
- Substitution: Use plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, or soy) for dairy-free or water for a plainer flavor.
- Yeast (1 tsp, 3 g): Adds a slight rise and flavor.
- Why it matters: Gives crackers a light, airy texture without heavy leavening.
- Substitution: Use instant yeast or skip for denser crackers (increase baking soda to ½ tsp).
- Baking Soda (1/4 tsp, 1.5 g): Helps with browning and crispness.
- Why it matters: Ensures a golden, crispy finish without puffing too much.
- Substitution: Use 1/8 tsp baking powder, but texture may vary slightly.
- Salt (1/3 tsp, 2 g): Enhances savory flavor.
- Why it matters: Balances the green onion and sesame for a bold taste.
- Substitution: Use sea salt or reduce to 1/4 tsp for lower sodium.
- Chopped Green Onion (1/4 cup, 32 g): Adds savory, fresh flavor.
- Why it matters: Infuses crackers with a mild oniony kick and vibrant color.
- Substitution: Use chives, dried onion flakes, or skip for a plainer cracker.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp, 12 g): Add nutty crunch.
- Why it matters: Provide texture and a toasty, savory depth.
- Substitution: Use poppy seeds, chia seeds, or crushed nuts for a different crunch.
Pro Tip: Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden for maximum flavor. Use fresh green onions for the best taste and color.
Instructions
Making No-Sugar, No-Butter Crackers is simple with straightforward mixing, kneading, and baking steps. Follow these for perfect, crispy crackers:
- Mix the Dough Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tbsp corn oil, 1/3 cup + 1 tbsp milk, and 1/3 tsp salt, stirring until well blended.
- Gradually add 1¾ cups low-gluten flour, 1 tsp yeast, and 1/4 tsp baking soda, stirring with a spoon or spatula until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
- Tip: Add flour slowly to avoid clumps; stir until just combined to keep the dough tender.
- Add Flavorings and Knead:
- Add 1/4 cup chopped green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds to the crumbly mixture.
- Knead the mixture by hand for 2-3 minutes until it forms a smooth, cohesive dough.
- Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let rest for 20 minutes at room temperature.
- Tip: Knead gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can make crackers tough; the dough should be soft but not sticky.
- Shape the Crackers:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the rested dough into a thin sheet (about 1/8 inch thick) using a rolling pin.
- Use a fork to poke small holes across the surface to prevent puffing during baking.
- Cut the dough into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles, or rounds) using a knife, pizza cutter, or cookie cutter.
- Tip: Roll evenly for consistent baking; transfer cut crackers to a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Bake the Crackers:
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F) with a rack in the center.
- Place the cut crackers on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy, rotating the tray halfway through for even baking.
- Let cool completely on a wire rack to maximize crispness.
- Tip: Check at 12 minutes to avoid over-browning; thinner crackers may bake faster.
- Serve:
- Serve the crackers as a snack, with dips like hummus or guacamole, or alongside cheese or soup.
- Health Benefit: Low-gluten flour and corn oil make these lighter; green onions and sesame seeds add vitamins and healthy fats, but enjoy in moderation due to sodium!
FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of low-gluten flour?
Yes! Use 1½ cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour for a similar tender texture; avoid over-kneading to keep crackers light.
2. Are these crackers healthy?
Low-gluten flour and corn oil make them lighter, and green onions/sesame seeds add nutrients, but sodium content suggests moderation. Use low-sodium salt for a healthier option.
3. Why are my crackers soft instead of crispy?
Underbaking or thick rolling can cause softness. Roll to 1/8 inch and bake until golden; ensure full cooling for crispness.
4. Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based milk (e.g., almond or soy); the recipe is naturally butter-free and sugar-free.
5. How long do the crackers last?
Up to 1 week at room temperature or 1 month frozen in an airtight container. Store with a silica packet for crispness.
6. Can I skip the green onions or sesame seeds?
Yes! Omit for plain crackers or replace with other add-ins like herbs, seeds, or spices for different flavors.