Picnic Snack Box Sourdough

There's something wonderfully nostalgic about Cheez-Its—those crispy, cheesy crackers that disappear by the handful. But imagine making them from scratch with tangy sourdough starter, sharp cheddar, and a touch of paprika. Paired with sweet, juicy grapes and packed into portable snack boxes, this picnic-ready combo transforms a simple snack into something special. Whether you're heading to the park, packing school lunches, or simply craving a homemade treat, these sourdough Cheez-Its deliver big flavor with minimal effort.

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This recipe is a celebration of homemade simplicity. The sourdough starter adds depth and complexity to the crackers, while sharp cheddar and a hint of paprika create that iconic cheesy bite. The fresh grapes provide a sweet, refreshing contrast that balances the savory richness perfectly. Pack them into snack boxes with optional nuts or dark chocolate, and you have a wholesome, satisfying snack that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Ingredients

• 120 g (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 60 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
• 30 g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 tbsp sourdough starter (discard or active, unfed)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1–2 tsp cold water, as needed
• 200 g (1 1/3 cups) seedless red or green grapes, washed and dried
• 30 g (1 oz) roasted almonds or walnuts (optional)
• 40 g (1.5 oz) dark chocolate squares (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the dough

In a food processor, combine the grated cheddar, flour, cold cubed butter, salt, and paprika. Pulse until the mixture becomes crumbly.

Add sourdough starter

Add the sourdough starter to the processor and pulse until a dough begins to form. If needed, add cold water one teaspoon at a time until the dough comes together.

Roll out the dough

Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to about 3 mm (1/8 inch) thickness.

Cut into squares

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 2 cm (3/4 inch) squares. Use a skewer or fork to poke a hole in the center of each square for an authentic Cheez-It look.

Arrange on baking sheet

Transfer the squares to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Bake

Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until the crackers are golden and crisp. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet.

Assemble snack boxes

Divide the cooled Cheez-Its and grapes among four containers. Add optional roasted nuts or dark chocolate squares if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, make sure your butter is cold when you start—this creates flakier, crispier crackers. When rolling out the dough, use parchment paper on both sides to prevent sticking and make transfer easier. Don't skip the center hole; it's not just for looks—it helps the crackers bake evenly and achieve that signature Cheez-It appearance. If your dough feels too crumbly, add water very sparingly, just a few drops at a time. After baking, let the crackers cool completely before packing; this ensures they stay crisp and don't become soggy in the container.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Swap the sharp cheddar for Gruyère, aged Gouda, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles. Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a spicier kick. For a Mediterranean twist, mix in dried herbs like rosemary or thyme. Instead of grapes, try fresh apple slices, pear wedges, or even dried apricots. You can also experiment with different shapes—use cookie cutters for fun designs, especially for kids' lunchboxes. For a vegan version, substitute with plant-based cheese and butter, though the texture may vary slightly.

Serviervorschläge

These snack boxes are ideal for picnics, road trips, or packed lunches. Serve them alongside a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for an elevated outdoor gathering. For a cheese board presentation, arrange the Cheez-Its with additional cheeses, olives, and cured meats. Kids love them in lunchboxes paired with carrot sticks and hummus. For an afternoon snack, enjoy them with a cup of herbal tea or iced coffee. The combination of salty, tangy crackers and sweet grapes is endlessly satisfying any time of day.

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This picnic snack box proves that homemade doesn't have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 40 minutes, you can create a snack that's far superior to anything store-bought. The tangy sourdough Cheez-Its paired with fresh grapes offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that make every bite memorable. Pack them up, head outdoors, and enjoy the simple pleasure of snacks made with care.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What cheese is used in the Cheez-Its?

Sharp cheddar cheese provides bold, tangy flavor and melts well for crisp Cheez-Its.

→ Can I use a different flour type?

All-purpose flour works best for texture, but whole wheat can be used with slight adjustments.

→ How do I store the snack boxes?

Keep in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain crispness and freshness.

→ Are there any allergy considerations?

This contains gluten and dairy; optional nuts may cause allergies. Check ingredients carefully.

→ Can the grapes be substituted?

Yes, fresh apple or pear slices add a sweet, crisp alternative to grapes.