Sure! Here’s a complete, detailed, and wholesome write-up for Salt Crackers & Salt Cookies (Eggless & Butter-Free) — including everything from history to nutrition to lovers of the dish.
Salt Crackers & Salt Cookies (Eggless & Butter-Free)
Introduction
Salt crackers and salt cookies are crisp, savory baked goods that have delighted generations with their light crunch and versatility. Made without eggs or butter, this simple yet satisfying recipe yields wholesome, budget-friendly snacks ideal for tea-time, school lunches, or guilt-free munching. Whether you’re baking for dietary reasons or simplicity, these salt crackers and cookies are a celebration of minimalism in the kitchen.
Ingredients (Large Batch – makes about 60 crackers/cookies)
- 500 ml lukewarm water
- 10 g dry yeast (about 1 tablespoon)
- 2 tsp sugar
- 500 g all-purpose flour (approx. 4 cups)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (sunflower, canola, or olive)
- 1.5 tsp salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
- Optional: Sesame seeds, caraway seeds, chili flakes, or herbs for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, combine lukewarm water, sugar, and dry yeast.
- Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This shows your yeast is alive and ready.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- To the yeast mixture, add flour, salt, baking powder, and vegetable oil.
- Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead for 5–8 minutes by hand or 3–5 minutes in a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
- Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Roll and Shape
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 2–3 sections for easier handling.
- Roll out each section on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut into your desired cracker or cookie shapes.
- Place on a lined baking tray.
Step 5: Topping & Baking
- Optional: Lightly brush with water and sprinkle with salt or seeds.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden and crisp.
- Cool on a wire rack before storing in an airtight container.
History
Salted crackers and cookies date back to ancient civilizations like Egypt and Persia, where unleavened, flat baked goods were prepared for travel and storage. In Europe, hardtack and biscuits sustained sailors and soldiers. Over time, these evolved into flaky, savory crackers and cookies we know today—adapted by cultures around the world using local grains, oils, and techniques.
Benefits
- Eggless & Dairy-Free: Perfect for vegans and those with allergies.
- Light & Digestible: Low in fat and gentle on the stomach.
- Shelf-Stable: Lasts for weeks in an airtight jar.
- Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or seeds for unique flavors.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, easily found at home.
Formations & Variations
- Mini Rounds: Use bottle caps or small cutters for bite-sized crackers.
- Sticks or Squares: Easy to shape and great for dipping.
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or black pepper.
- Sweet & Savory: Dust lightly with sugar and salt mix before baking.
Nutrition (Per Serving – approx. 2 crackers)
- Calories: 45
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 1.2g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Sodium: 70mg
(Values approximate depending on size and toppings.)
Lovers of Salt Crackers & Cookies
- Vegans love them for their clean, animal-free ingredients.
- Moms pack them in lunchboxes as healthy snacks.
- Bakers adore their simplicity and versatility.
- Seniors enjoy them as light, crisp, digestible treats.
- Everyone appreciates them with soup, tea, or cheese.
Conclusion
Salt crackers and cookies may be simple, but they carry centuries of tradition, health benefits, and comfort in each crunchy bite. Made with just a few pantry staples and no eggs or butter, they’re a triumph of humble, honest baking. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or enjoying a quiet snack yourself, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Would you like a printable version or a visual step-by-step guide too?