Looking for a simple, satisfying savory snack that doesn’t rely on eggs or butter? These homemade salt crackers and cookies are just what you need. With only a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of crispy crackers or tender, salty cookies in under an hour. Whether you prefer crunchy bites to dip in hummus or slightly softer rounds to serve with cheese, this versatile recipe offers both.
These snacks are egg-free, dairy-free, and easy to adapt for various dietary preferences. You’ll love how budget-friendly and customizable they are, and once you try them, store-bought versions may never cut it again.
Why You’ll Love These Crackers and Cookies
Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
No fancy ingredients are required here—just flour, oil, water, and salt. Optional baking powder adds lightness, while the olive oil brings richness and moisture.
Completely Dairy-Free and Egg-Free
Perfect for vegans, those with allergies, or anyone running low on fridge staples.
Versatile and Customizable
Turn them into crunchy crackers, soft cookies, or somewhere in between. Add herbs, spices, seeds, or cheese to match your mood or the meal.
Budget-Friendly Snack
These are made from ingredients most people already have in their kitchen, making them ideal for quick, affordable snacking.
Ingredients List
For the Dough (Makes 24–30 pieces)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for added fiber)
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus extra for topping, optional)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (optional, for slight lift)
- ¼ cup olive oil (or any neutral oil)
- ¾ to 1 cup water (adjust for dough consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder (if using). Stir well to blend everything evenly.
Add the olive oil and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. Gradually pour in the water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing continuously. You’re aiming for a soft, pliable dough that’s not sticky. Adjust with a bit more flour or water if needed.
Once it comes together, knead it gently for about a minute to ensure smoothness.
Shape the Crackers or Cookies
Divide the dough into two portions to make it easier to work with. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough as thin as possible—about ⅛ inch for crisp crackers or up to ¼ inch for softer cookies.
Use a knife, pizza cutter, or cookie cutters to slice the dough into your desired shapes: squares for classic crackers, circles for cookies, or fun shapes if you’re making them with kids.
Prick and Sprinkle
Use a fork to gently prick each piece. This helps prevent puffing and gives them a rustic, artisan look.
If you enjoy a bit of extra crunch or visual flair, sprinkle the tops with coarse sea salt or even flaky finishing salt.
Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper and place your shaped dough pieces with a little space in between.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the centers are firm. For extra crispiness, especially for crackers, extend the baking time by 2–3 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they can go from golden to overdone quickly!
Cool and Store
Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking tray. As they cool, they’ll firm up more, especially the thinner ones.
Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crisp for up to one week.
Tips for Perfect Salt Crackers and Cookies
- Flavor Add-Ins: Stir in your favorite herbs and spices like rosemary, black pepper, or garlic powder to customize the taste.
- Seed Mix: For added nutrition and texture, add a tablespoon of sesame, flax, or poppy seeds to the dough.
- Cheese Upgrade: Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan or a spoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy finish.
- Thickness Matters: For super crisp crackers, roll the dough paper-thin. Want softer cookies? Leave the dough slightly thicker and reduce baking time.
- Baking Sheet Rotation: If using multiple trays, rotate them halfway through for even baking.
- Oil Choices: Try different oils for unique flavor profiles. Olive oil gives richness, while coconut oil adds a mild sweetness.
Flavor Variations
- Cheesy Bites: Stir grated cheese directly into the dough before rolling. Parmesan or sharp cheddar work great.
- Seeded Crackers: Mix in a variety of seeds like pumpkin, chia, or sunflower for a nutritious boost.
- Sweet & Savory Combo: Sprinkle the tops with cinnamon-sugar after brushing with oil, then a pinch of salt to create a sweet-salty fusion.
- Herb Lovers: Finely chop fresh herbs (like thyme, basil, or dill) and mix into the dough for garden-fresh flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Piece – Approx. 24 pieces)
- Calories: 60
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum or add ¼ teaspoon if your mix doesn’t include it.
Are these crackers vegan?
Absolutely. This recipe contains no animal products—no eggs, no dairy, and no honey—making it suitable for a plant-based diet.
How can I keep the crackers crunchy for days?
Ensure they are completely cool before storing. Use an airtight container and store in a dry place. You can also re-crisp them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes if needed.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and store for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking.
What’s the difference between these crackers and cookies?
It all comes down to shape and thickness. Thinner, crisper versions are crackers—great for dipping. Slightly thicker, softer rounds are more like savory cookies—ideal on their own or with toppings.
Can I add sweet flavors?
While these are designed as savory snacks, you can experiment by adding a bit of cinnamon, a pinch of sugar, or even raisins to create a savory-sweet hybrid.
Final Thoughts
These simple salt crackers and cookies are more than just snacks—they’re a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, packing them for a picnic, or pairing with your favorite spread, they’re sure to be a hit. Egg-free, butter-free, and endlessly flexible, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Try a batch today and enjoy the satisfying crunch with every bite!
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