A couple of weeks ago I attempted to make homemade fruit snacks, which turned out to be an epic fail. They looked pretty, they tasted alright, but the consistency was very strange. They boys apprehensively ate them, but I’m pretty sure they were just being polite. In order to redeem myself and give my ego a much-needed boost, I decided to make a recipe that has never failed me in the past. Goldfish crackers! It’s been a while since I’ve last made them, but I knew the boys would devour them. Not out of pity but because they’re actually good…and healthy! I wouldn’t consider myself a health nut (I’m a strong believer in the motto “everything in moderation”), but I am, however, extremely conscience of what the boys are eating. And while goldfish crackers are a healthier alternative to other snacks, I feel if I can make a better option-one with no preservatives and unnecessary added ingredients-why not?

 Ingredients:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons of salted butter cut into small pieces
• 2 cups of shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese (or you can experiment with other cheeses!) *For orange crackers be sure to use yellow cheddar.
• Pinch of black pepper
• OPTIONAL: 1/8 teaspoon of onion powder. This does not give the crackers an oniony taste, but adds a little flavor. I definitely recommend it

 Directions:

• Pulse flour, onion powder, and pepper in food processor until blended. (If you do not have a food processor you can also use a pastry blender.)
• Add butter and cheese. Continue to pulse
• Slowly add 1TBS of water of water at a time (You will need approximately 3-4 TBS) until the dough forms a ball onto of the blade
• Remove ball of dough, wrap in plastic wrap, and place in fridge for 15 minutes
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper
• Once chilled, roll out dough to about 1/8 inch (the crackers will puff up slightly when baked) and begin to stamp out the crackers
• Bake for 13-18 minutes, until slightly golden
• Allow to cool fully before eating. Next day tastes the best!

I made the little adorable mini goldfish cookie cutter by hand. Click here for a tutorial! If you’re not so crafty, you can purchase one from online. When it comes to actual stamping, I must admit it is a daunting process. You will feel like you’re cutting out little fishes forever. Half way through Little A and I used his slightly larger animal shape cutters, and made animal crackers. Don’t limit yourself to just “goldfish” crackers. Use what you have handy, if it helps! Happy Fishing!!