Homemade Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its”: Crispy, Cheesy & Gluten-Free Crackers

Experience the ultimate savory snack with these irresistible Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its.” Crafted with a wholesome gluten-free almond and oat base, infused with the rich, cheesy flavor of nutritional yeast, and given a delightful sesame twist with creamy tahini. These plant-based crackers are an absolute game-changer!

There’s something uniquely comforting about a savory snack at the end of a long day. While my partner, Dan, might leave behind a half-empty bowl of pretzels or a few leftover Cheez-Its as a testament to his evening munching, my snacking habits are a bit different. When these Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its” are involved, crumbs are a rarity because they disappear almost instantly!

These golden, buttery, and perfectly crispy squares have quickly become my latest culinary obsession. They’re entirely plant-based, completely oil-free, and delightfully gluten-free, offering an indulgence that truly satisfies. The most intriguing part? They deliver an authentic “cheesy” flavor without a single speck of actual cheese. Intrigued to learn the secret?

The allure of cheesy snacking crackers is undeniable. Growing up, Cheetos were a rare treat, often devoured at friends’ houses, leaving behind tell-tale orange-stained fingers. Cheez-Its, however, made an occasional appearance in our pantry, providing that much-desired savory crunch. As someone who never quite embraced potato chips, a good Cheez-It always hit the spot. So, if you’ve been craving that classic flavor, but want a healthier, plant-powered alternative, your moment is now.

Crafting the Perfect Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its”: Essential Ingredients

Ever since successfully creating my Vegan & Gluten-Free Graham Crackers, the concept of homemade crackers has captivated my kitchen adventures. The entire cracker-making process proved to be far simpler and more rewarding than I had ever imagined. Often, in both life and cooking, we tend to romanticize or overcomplicate the unfamiliar, simply because we haven’t experienced it firsthand.

Today, let’s demystify the magic and dive into the satisfying world of homemade crackers. You’re about to get “crack(er)in'” with confidence and ease!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its”

These Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its” embody all the classic cracker appeal, complete with the iconic dotted design—a playful touch achieved with a single chopstick from my silverware drawer. Despite their familiar appearance, they don’t just look like a regular Cheez-It; they taste even better! They boast a rich, cheesy flavor, a perfect saltiness, and a satisfying crunch that will echo through your home.

The secret to their incredible “cheesy” profile lies in a few generous spoonfuls of nutritional yeast, complemented by garlic and a hint of vibrant spices like paprika and turmeric. If you’re new to the wonderful world of “nooch” (nutritional yeast), you might start with a smaller amount to ease into the flavor. However, for those, like me, who crave a bold, unmistakable “cheeziness,” feel free to add a few heaping tablespoons. Nutritional yeast is a staple in vegan cooking, known for its distinct umami, cheese-like flavor and its excellent source of B vitamins, making these crackers not only delicious but also a more nutritious alternative.

The Power of Tahini: Creaminess Without Oil

If you’re a long-time follower of Flora & Vino, you might be playfully wondering how I’ve managed to incorporate sesame into yet another recipe. The answer is simple: it’s incredibly delicious and remarkably versatile, friends! This recipe stands out by being entirely oil-free, thanks to the star ingredient: Eden Foods Organic Roasted Tahini.

Eden Foods is renowned for its commitment to quality, and their sesame seeds are organically grown, carefully hulled, lightly roasted, and then ground into an exquisitely smooth, dreamy paste. This meticulous process results in a tahini with a rich, subtly nutty flavor and an exceptionally creamy texture. It’s truly goodness in a glass jar.

In this recipe, tahini doesn’t just provide its signature sesame flavor; it contributes a wealth of healthy fats and an unparalleled creaminess. This not only enhances the “cheesy” notes but also adds a depth and richness that oil simply can’t replicate, along with a slight, delightful tang. It acts as the perfect binding agent, ensuring the crackers hold their shape while baking to crispy perfection, all while keeping the recipe wholesome and light.

Tips for Achieving Your Perfect Cracker Texture

One of the best aspects of making crackers at home is the ability to customize them to your exact preference. If you prefer your crackers extra crispy, simply extend the baking time beyond the recommended duration. However, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Oven temperatures can vary significantly, so relying on visual cues – a deeper golden brown color – is key.

For my batches, I’ve found that baking for approximately 16-17 minutes results in the ideal doneness for perfectly puffy, golden squares. Yet, this timing can also depend on the thickness of your dough and the size and shape of the crackers you create. To faithfully mimic the classic Cheez-It aesthetic, I opted for traditional squares, but feel free to experiment with any size or shape that inspires you. Get creative with cookie cutters or just freehand with a knife!

Remember, crackers continue to crisp up as they cool. So, for the ultimate crunchy experience, allow your freshly baked Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its” to cool completely on the baking sheet or a wire rack before you start enjoying them. This patience will be amply rewarded with an unparalleled crunch that makes all the effort worthwhile.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its”

These homemade Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its” are versatile and absolutely delicious, ready to satisfy your craving for a crispy, savory snack any time of day. While they are phenomenal on their own, especially with an optional sprinkle of turmeric for extra color and a subtle “mustard” kick, they also pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments.

Consider them a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional crackers. Their robust flavor and satisfying crunch make them perfect partners for any of my homemade dips and spreads. Imagine them alongside a creamy hummus, a vibrant pesto, or a rich cashew cheese dip. They are also fantastic crumbled over salads for an added textural element or used as a crunchy topping for soups.

To keep these delectable crackers fresh and crispy, store any leftovers in a sealed, airtight container at room temperature. They should maintain their quality for up to one week. However, I’d be genuinely surprised if they manage to last until day 7 – they’re just too tempting!

Explore More Delicious Vegan Cracker Recipes

• Grain-Free Almond Flour Crackers

• Sweet & Savory Vegan Graham Crackers

• “Cheezy” Miso Kale Chips

We Value Your Feedback!

If you decide to make this amazing Vegan Tahini “Cheez-Its” recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience!

Please take a moment to leave a comment, rating, and review below. Your valuable feedback helps me to continually create and share more delicious recipes that you’ll love.

Don’t forget to give me a shout-out on Instagram and use the hashtag #floraandvino to share your beautiful creations with our community. I can’t wait to see them!

For more plant-based inspiration, check out my Pinterest page. You’ll find plenty of recipes like this one to pin and try later.

Love this post and eager for more delightful content? Head over to my homepage and subscribe to my newsletter to receive fresh updates and new recipes delivered directly to your inbox!

XO Lauren

Print

This post is brought to you by Eden Foods, but all words and eats are my own. Thanks for supporting the sponsors that keep me hungry!