Making Easy Homemade Cheez Its involves straightforward steps that will lead you to crispy, cheesy perfection:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and softened butter. Mix until creamy.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, salt, and paprika (if using) to the cheese-butter mixture. Stir until combined.
4. Form the Dough: If the mixture is too crumbly, add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until a dough forms.
5. Roll Out the Dough: Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness.
6. Cut the Crackers: Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into small squares or your desired shapes.
7. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place the cut pieces onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Prick with Fork: Lightly prick each cracker with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
9. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the crackers to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Following these steps, you’ll master the art of making Easy Homemade Cheez Its with minimal fuss!