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Homemade Ritz-Style Crackers with Hot Vanilla (Crème de la Crème à la Edgar)

Recipe by Binging with Babish

A buttery, flaky homemade cracker that tastes just like store‑bought Ritz, paired with a comforting hot vanilla drink inspired by the classic movie scene. Made with simple pantry staples, this recipe walks you through a quick dough, thin rolling, and two butter brushes for that perfect golden finish, plus a rich vanilla‑spiced milk beverage.

MediumAmericanServes 8

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Source Video
45m
Prep
17m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 12m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.79
Total cost
$0.72
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Forming the dough with ice water
  • Resting the dough in the refrigerator
  • Rolling the dough as thinly as possible
  • Baking until golden but not over‑browned
  • Heating the vanilla drink without boiling

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the food processor blade with care; it is very sharp.
  • Melted butter and hot steam from the oven can cause burns; use oven mitts.
  • Do not let the cream‑milk mixture boil, as it can curdle and cause splattering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Ritz‑style crackers in American cuisine?

A

Ritz crackers, introduced in 1934, became an iconic American snack known for their buttery, flaky texture and subtle sweet flavor. They were marketed as an affordable luxury during the Great Depression and have remained a staple for cheese plates, soups, and creative recipes.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of buttery crackers in the United States?

A

While the classic Ritz is the most famous, regional variations include Southern cheese‑crackers, New England oyster crackers, and Midwestern soda crackers, each differing in thickness, leavening, and seasoning.

cultural
Q

How is Crème de la Crème à la Edgar traditionally served in French‑inspired cafés?

A

The drink is typically served hot in a small porcelain mug, often accompanied by a buttery biscuit or cracker for dipping, echoing the movie‑scene indulgence that inspired the recipe.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is a homemade Ritz‑style cracker and hot vanilla pairing traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

These treats are popular at casual brunches, movie‑night gatherings, and holiday tea parties where a comforting warm drink and crisp snack create a nostalgic, cozy atmosphere.

cultural
Q

What makes this homemade Ritz‑style cracker special compared to store‑bought versions?

A

Making the crackers at home lets you control the butter content, achieve a fresher flavor, and add personal touches like extra herbs or spices, resulting in a richer, more aromatic bite than the mass‑produced version.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making these homemade Ritz‑style crackers?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the dough, using warm butter, rolling the dough too thick, and baking at too high a temperature, all of which can cause puffiness or uneven browning.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use a food processor instead of a pastry cutter for the dough?

A

The food processor quickly cuts the cold butter into the flour without warming it, creating a uniform, sand‑like texture that is harder to achieve by hand, which is essential for a flaky cracker.

technical
Q

Can I make the hot vanilla drink ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the mixture, let it cool, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring, and add a splash of milk if it thickens.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the crackers are done?

A

The crackers should be uniformly golden‑brown, with crisp edges and a light, flaky interior. They should snap cleanly when bent and not feel doughy.

technical
Q

How do I know when the hot vanilla drink is done cooking?

A

When small bubbles form around the edges and steam rises steadily, the mixture is hot enough. It should not reach a rolling boil; a gentle simmer indicates it’s ready.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Binging with Babish specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Binging with Babish specializes in recreating iconic dishes from movies, TV shows, and pop culture, while also teaching classic cooking techniques in an entertaining, accessible format.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Binging with Babish's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

Binging with Babish blends cinematic storytelling with precise, step‑by‑step instruction, often adding humorous commentary and behind‑the‑scenes insights, which sets it apart from more straightforward tutorial channels.

channel

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