Making your own crackers allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring they are fresh and free from preservatives. Homemade crackers can be tailored to your taste preferences, and they often turn out to be more flavorful than store-bought options. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make!

To make black pepper crackers, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 turns of freshly cracked black pepper (plus more for sprinkling)
2/3 cup milk
2 tablespoons chilled butter, cut into small pieces
Sea salt for sprinkling on top

Preheat your oven to 450°F (or 425°F for convection ovens).
In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pulse until well mixed.
Add the chilled butter pieces and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
With the food processor running, gradually add the milk until the dough comes together.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5-6 minutes until smooth.
Divide the dough into two halves. Roll out one half on an inverted baking sheet or a floured surface until it is paper-thin, ensuring it covers most of the pan.
Repeat with the second half of the dough.

Sprinkle sea salt and additional cracked black pepper over the rolled-out dough.
Use a fork to pierce the surface of the dough to prevent puffing during baking. You can also score the dough into desired cracker shapes for easier breaking later.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the crackers are golden and crisp.

Allow the crackers to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, break them into pieces and enjoy!

Roll the Dough Thinly: The thinner you roll the dough, the crispier the crackers will be. Aim for a thickness that makes you slightly nervous about ripping!
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the crackers while they bake. Depending on thickness, they may need a few extra minutes.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even cheese for a different flavor profile.

Once you master the basic recipe, you can customize your crackers in various ways:

Herb-Infused: Substitute black pepper with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for a fragrant twist.
Cheesy Crackers: Add grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, to the dough for a cheesy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a spicy version.

These crackers pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and spreads. Here are some delicious options:

Hummus: A classic pairing that complements the peppery flavor.
Cheese: Serve with a selection of cheeses, such as goat cheese or cheddar.
Dips: Try them with bacon blue cheese dip or caramelized onion dip for a savory treat.

Making black pepper crackers at home is a rewarding and simple process that yields delicious results. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a snack that's perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful crunch of homemade black pepper crackers!