# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Dough
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
03 - 1/3 cup cold water
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
→ Flavorings
06 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, finely chopped
08 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 2 ounces finely grated aged cheddar (optional)
→ Topping
10 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
11 - Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
12 - Sesame seeds or poppy seeds, for garnish (optional)
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk together the flour, sea salt, baking powder, and selected flavorings or cheese in a large bowl.
03 - Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or fingertips until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
04 - Gradually add cold water while mixing just until the dough begins to come together, taking care not to overwork it.
05 - Divide the dough into two portions and roll each on a lightly floured surface to approximately 1/8 inch thickness.
06 - Use snowflake-shaped cookie cutters to cut crackers and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. Gather scraps, reroll, and cut additional shapes.
07 - Lightly brush each cracker with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and seeds if desired.
08 - Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the crackers turn golden and crisp, rotating baking sheets halfway through for even browning.
09 - Allow crackers to cool completely on wire racks before arranging on a serving board alongside cheeses, fruits, and spreads.
