Satisfy your snacking cravings guilt-free with these irresistible Raw Cheez Itz, a healthy, plant-based twist on the classic cheesy snack cracker! Made with nutrient-packed raw cashews, sunflower seeds, and the savory umami of nutritional yeast, these crackers are bursting with flavor and crunch. A hint of paprika, garlic, and onion powder adds a zesty kick, while ground flaxseed helps bind everything into a delectable dough. Unlike traditional crackers, this recipe requires no baking—instead, the dough is dehydrated at low temperatures, preserving the raw ingredients' nutrients and delivering a perfectly crisp texture. Whether you’re looking for a vegan snack, raw food recipe, or gluten-free alternative, these homemade crackers are sure to impress. Perfect for dipping, sharing, or munching solo, they’re the ultimate healthy snack to keep on hand!
Place the raw cashews and sunflower seeds in a high-speed blender or food processor. Pulse until they are finely ground into a flour-like consistency. Be careful not to over-blend as this may release their oils.
Add the nutritional yeast, ground flaxseed, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt to the blender or food processor. Pulse a few times to evenly combine the dry ingredients.
Pour in the water and lemon juice. Blend the mixture until it forms a thick dough that holds together when pressed between your fingers.
Place a sheet of parchment paper on a flat surface. Transfer the dough onto the parchment and press it into a ball. Put another sheet of parchment on top of the dough to prevent sticking.
Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out evenly to about 1/8-inch thickness. The thinner the dough, the crunchier the crackers will be once dehydrated.
Carefully remove the top layer of parchment. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to score the dough into small square pieces, resembling Cheez Itz. Optionally, use a toothpick to poke a small hole in the center of each square for authenticity.
Transfer the parchment paper with the dough onto a dehydrator tray. Ensure the squares are evenly spaced for airflow.
Dehydrate at 115°F (46°C) for 6-8 hours, or until the crackers are completely dry and crispy. If using an oven, set it to the lowest temperature possible and keep the door slightly ajar for a similar effect.
Once dehydrated, break apart the crackers along the scored lines. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Serving size | 284.9 grams (284.9g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1157 |
Total Fat 91.40g | 117% |
Saturated Fat 13.20g | 66% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 23.70g | |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 1190mg | 52% |
Total Carbohydrate 64.30g | 23% |
Dietary Fiber 17.30g | 62% |
Total Sugars 9.40g | |
Protein 40.60g | 81% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 141mg | 11% |
Iron 12mg | 67% |
Potassium 1646mg | 35% |
Source of Calories