Crunchy and Cheesy Goodness Awaits!
Ever craved a snack that’s both fun and addictive? Imagine munching on homemade Goldfish crackers that are gluten-free and bursting with flavor! These little delights bring back childhood memories while being a healthier option for everyone. So, whether you’re hosting a party or just need something to munch on during movie night, this Gluten Free Goldfish Recipe will have you hooked!
Why Make This Recipe
Who doesn’t want a snack that’s quick and easy with minimal cleanup? This recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy days or spontaneous cravings. Plus, it’s super family-friendly — kids love shaping the goldfish, and you’ll love knowing exactly what’s in your snacks. It’s a win-win, right? 🎉
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour blend (I used Better Batter; click through for info on appropriate blends)
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if your blend already contains it)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika
- 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (shredded or finely chopped)
- 8 ounces sharp yellow Cheddar cheese (shredded and kept cold)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (plus more as needed)
Directions
Ready to dive in? Here’s how to make your crispy little friends:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line rimmed baking sheets with unbleached parchment paper and set them aside.
- In the bowl of a food processor, place all the ingredients except the water, in the order listed.
- Add 2 tablespoons of the water and pulse. Gradually add more water by the half-teaspoon with the processor running, just until it forms a cohesive dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a very lightly floured surface and roll into an even layer about 1/4 inch thick, sprinkling very lightly with flour as needed.
- Cut out small goldfish shapes about 1½ inches long and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Gather and re-roll the scraps to cut out more crackers until you’ve used up the dough.
- Place the baking sheets, one at a time, in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until very light golden brown all over. They will crisp as they cool.
- Store the crackers in a sealed glass container at room temperature for at least 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in a freezer-safe bag or wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost at room temperature.
How to Make Gluten Free Goldfish Recipe (Overview)
Making these little fish-shaped snacks is as easy as pie — or should I say, as easy as crackers? Start by bringing together your dry ingredients in a food processor, followed by butter and cheese for that cheesy goodness. After adding just the right amount of water, roll out the dough and start cutting your shapes. Pro tip: The smoother the dough, the better your goldfish will look! Don’t forget to keep an eye on them in the oven; it’s all about catching that perfect golden hue. 🐟
How to Serve Gluten Free Goldfish Recipe
Serving these Goldfish is as fun as making them! Pair them with a zesty dip or toss them in a bowl for a party platter surprise. Their bright golden color and crunchy texture make them irresistible. Imagine the delightful aroma wafting from the oven — your friends won’t be able to resist grabbing a handful (or three!). Serve alongside a refreshing drink for a perfect afternoon snack.
How to Store Gluten Free Goldfish Recipe
Storing your delicious creations is simple. Once they cool down, pop them in an airtight container, and they should last around five days at room temperature. If you want to enjoy them later, wrap them up and freeze — they can last for up to two months. When you’re ready to indulge, just let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be as good as fresh!
Tips to Make Gluten Free Goldfish Recipe
- Use cold ingredients for the best texture; it helps keep your crackers crispy.
- Experiment with different cheese types — have fun and switch up the flavors!
- Try to roll the dough as evenly as possible for consistent baking.
- Don’t worry too much about their shape; the irregularities add character! (Who needs perfect shapes, anyway?)
- If you’re in a time crunch, use a pre-shredded cheese blend.
Variation
Want to spice things up? You can add herbs like dill or rosemary to the dough for a savory twist! Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some nutritional yeast for a bit of cheesy flavor without the dairy — perfect for vegan friends!
FAQs
1. Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free?
Absolutely not! 😉 This recipe is designed for gluten-free flour, so stick to that for your goldfish to stay safe.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for about 24 hours before rolling and cutting.
3. How can I ensure my crackers are crispy?
Bake until they are really light golden brown. They will continue to crisp up as they cool!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Homemade Gluten Free Goldfish Crackers
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour blend Better Batter or other appropriate blends
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum Omit if your flour blend already contains it
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika
Wet Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter Shredded or finely chopped
- 8 ounces sharp yellow Cheddar cheese Shredded and kept cold
- 2 tablespoons cold water Plus more as needed
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line rimmed baking sheets with unbleached parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine all ingredients except the water, in the order listed.
- Add 2 tablespoons of water and pulse. Gradually add more water by half-teaspoon, with the processor running, until a cohesive dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll into an even layer about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut out small goldfish shapes about 1½ inches long and place them on the prepared baking sheets, 1 inch apart.
- Gather and re-roll scraps to cut out more crackers until the dough is used up.
Baking
- Place the baking sheets in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until very light golden brown.
Storage
- Store the crackers in a sealed glass container at room temperature for at least 5 days or freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- To enjoy frozen crackers, let them thaw at room temperature.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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