Homemade Nabisco Ritz Toasted Chips Roasted Garlic Crackers Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic Favorite

Category: Crackers

Introduction

Nabisco Ritz Toasted Chips Roasted Garlic Crackers are a beloved snack known for their buttery, crispy texture and savory roasted garlic flavor. First introduced in the mid-20th century, Ritz crackers have become a staple in many households, offering a delicious base for snacks, appetizers, and even desserts. The roasted garlic variation adds a sophisticated twist, making it a favorite among both snack enthusiasts and those who enjoy a bit of elegance in their munchies. While store-bought options are convenient, making these crackers at home allows for customization, better nutritional control, and a freshness that can't be matched by packaged products. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy that irresistible Ritz flavor without any preservatives or artificial additives.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own Ritz-style roasted garlic crackers at home offers several advantages. For one, you can control the amount of sodium and sugar that goes into your crackers, making them a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. Additionally, you can customize the flavor to suit your preferences—whether that means adding a bit more garlic, some dried herbs, or even a sprinkle of cheese. Homemade crackers also make for a fun and rewarding baking project, perfect for a rainy afternoon or as a family activity.

Personal Anecdote

I still remember the first time I tried to make homemade crackers. It was a bit of a disaster—my dough was too sticky, and the crackers ended up more like flatbread than the crispy snacks I was aiming for. But I didn’t give up. After some trial and error (and a few batches that were, shall we say, “character-building”), I finally nailed the technique. The key, I found, was in the rolling out process. By rolling the dough thin and even, I could achieve that perfect crunch that I loved so much about store-bought crackers. And when I added the roasted garlic flavor, it was like a revelation—so much deeper and richer than anything I could buy in a box.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (5g) baking powder
• 1/2 tsp (2g) garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp (1g) salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp (15g) roasted garlic puree (see note)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp (15g) water
• Optional: 1 tsp (5g) sesame seeds for topping

Note: To make roasted garlic puree, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes until soft and mashed. Squeeze the garlic out of the skins and blend into a smooth paste.

Instructions

• Activate Baking Powder: In a small bowl, mix together the milk and baking powder. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it starts to froth slightly.

• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, and salt until well combined.

• Add Wet Ingredients: Add the softened butter, roasted garlic puree, and activated milk mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.

• Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and pliable.

• Rest the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.

• Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Roll out each portion on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.

• Cut the Crackers: Use a cookie cutter, glass, or knife to cut the dough into desired shapes. For a more rustic look, simply cut into strips or squares.

• Prepare for Baking: Place the crackers on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

• Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown.

• Cool: Allow the crackers to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

Low-Sodium Version:

Reduce the salt to 1/8 tsp (0.5g) and use low-sodium baking powder.

Spicy Version:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dough for a spicy kick.

Smoky Version:

Mix in 1/2 tsp (2g) of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Gluten-Free Version:

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add 1/4 tsp (1g) of xanthan gum for texture.

Pro Tips

• Even Rolling: To ensure your crackers bake evenly, try to roll the dough out to an even thickness. If you have a pasta machine, you can use it to get a uniform thickness.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes will make it easier to roll out thinly and evenly.

• Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the crackers during the last few minutes of baking, as they can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh garlic instead of roasted garlic?

  • While fresh garlic has a brighter, more pungent flavor, roasted garlic offers a deeper, sweeter taste. For the best results, use roasted garlic puree.

• What if I don’t have baking powder?

  • Baking powder is essential for the light, airy texture of the crackers. If you don’t have any, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tsp (5g) baking soda with 1/2 tsp (2g) cream of tartar.

• Can I make these crackers ahead of time?

  • Yes! These crackers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• How do I achieve that golden color?

  • The egg wash is key for achieving that golden brown color. Make sure to brush the crackers evenly before baking.

• Can I scale this recipe?

  • Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients as needed. Keep in mind that you may need to bake in batches to prevent overcrowding the baking sheet.

Serving Suggestions

• Snack Time: Enjoy these crackers on their own or paired with your favorite dip, such as hummus, guacamole, or spinach and artichoke dip.
• Appetizer Base: Use these crackers as a base for mini appetizers, topped with cheese, meats, or a dollop of caviar.
• Soup Companion: Serve alongside a warm bowl of soup for a satisfying crunch.
• Cheese Plate: Include these crackers in your next cheese and charcuterie board for a delicious textural contrast.

Conclusion

Making your own Nabisco Ritz Toasted Chips Roasted Garlic Crackers at home is not only fun and rewarding but also allows you to enjoy a healthier, more customizable version of this beloved snack. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can create crackers that are every bit as delicious as the store-bought variety—if not even better. So next time you’re in the mood for something crispy and flavorful, why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds—and your health—will thank you.