Beyond the Snack: Culinary Creations with Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo

Cheez-It crackers have long been a beloved snack, offering that satisfying crunch and cheesy flavor that keeps us coming back for more. But the recent release of the Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo takes things to a whole new level. The irresistible combination of extra toasty texture and smoky flavor opens up a world of culinary possibilities beyond simply munching straight from the box. This article explores creative and delicious ways to incorporate this unique snack into your cooking, transforming it into gourmet appetizers, decadent desserts, and even savory main courses.

## Understanding the Flavor Profile

Before diving into recipes, it’s important to understand the distinct flavor profile of the Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo. The “Extra Toasty” aspect provides a deep, almost caramelized flavor that adds a pleasant bitterness and enhanced crunch. The “Smoked” element infuses a rich, savory dimension, reminiscent of barbecue or wood-fired ovens. This combination creates a complex flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory ingredients.

Consider these flavor pairings when developing your recipes:

* **Savory:** Sharp cheddar cheese, creamy goat cheese, bacon, smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, caramelized onions, roasted garlic, herbs like thyme and rosemary, avocado, tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar.
* **Sweet:** Chocolate (especially dark chocolate), caramel, maple syrup, nuts (pecans, walnuts), dried fruit (cranberries, apricots), and apples.

## Appetizer Adventures

The Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo is a natural fit for appetizers, adding a unique twist to classic party favorites.

### 1. Smoked Cheez-It Cheese Ball

This recipe elevates the traditional cheese ball with the smoky, toasty crunch of Cheez-Its.

**Ingredients:**

* 8 oz cream cheese, softened
* 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
* 1/2 cup crumbled Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* Pinch of smoked paprika
* Additional Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo, crushed, for coating

**Instructions:**

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled Cheez-Its, nuts, chives, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to firm up.
4. Remove the cheese mixture from the refrigerator and form it into a ball.
5. Spread the crushed Cheez-Its on a plate or shallow dish.
6. Roll the cheese ball in the crushed Cheez-Its, ensuring it is completely coated.
7. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8. Serve with additional Cheez-Its, crackers, or crudités.

### 2. Smoked Cheez-It Stuffed Mushrooms

These savory stuffed mushrooms are packed with flavor and offer a delightful textural contrast.

**Ingredients:**

* 16 large mushroom caps, stems removed
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup crumbled Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo
* 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tablespoon butter, melted
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly brush the mushroom caps with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet, stem-side up.
3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the crumbled Cheez-Its, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the filling into the mushroom caps, packing it lightly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

### 3. Cheez-It Crusted Avocado Fries with Chipotle Aioli

A unique and flavorful take on avocado fries, enhanced with the smoky crunch of Cheez-Its.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and cut into wedges
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 cup finely crushed Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo
* Vegetable oil, for frying

**For the Chipotle Aioli:**

* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
* 1 teaspoon lime juice
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

**Instructions:**

1. Prepare the chipotle aioli by combining the mayonnaise, chipotle pepper, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside.
2. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with the crushed Cheez-Its.
3. Dredge each avocado wedge in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with the crushed Cheez-Its.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
5. Carefully fry the avocado wedges in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove the avocado fries from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
7. Serve immediately with the chipotle aioli.

## Main Course Marvels

Who says Cheez-Its are just for snacking? These recipes prove that they can be the star of a delicious and satisfying meal.

### 1. Smoked Cheez-It Crusted Chicken

This recipe provides a crispy and flavorful crust for chicken breasts, adding a smoky depth that elevates this simple dish.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 eggs, beaten
* 2 cups finely crushed Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Olive oil or cooking spray

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the crushed Cheez-Its, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper combined.
3. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch).
4. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with the Cheez-It mixture.
5. Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray.
6. Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
7. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

### 2. Cheez-It Meatloaf with a Smoked Glaze

A comfort food classic gets a Cheez-It makeover with a surprisingly delicious and flavorful result.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs ground beef
* 1 cup finely crushed Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
* 2 eggs, beaten
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

**For the Smoked Glaze:**

* 1/2 cup ketchup
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Cheez-Its, breadcrumbs, onion, green bell pepper, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika to create the smoked glaze.
5. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

### 3. Smoked Cheez-It Mac and Cheese

Upgrade your mac and cheese with the irresistible flavor of Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb elbow macaroni
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup crumbled Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo

**Instructions:**

1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Stir in the cooked macaroni and 3/4 cup of the crumbled Cheez-Its.
7. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of crumbled Cheez-Its over the top.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

## Dessert Delights

Believe it or not, the salty, smoky, and toasty flavors of Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo can work wonders in desserts.

### 1. Smoked Cheez-It Chocolate Bark

The combination of sweet chocolate and salty, smoky Cheez-Its is surprisingly addictive in this easy-to-make bark.

**Ingredients:**

* 12 oz dark chocolate, chopped
* 1 cup crumbled Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo
* 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
* Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling

**Instructions:**

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
3. Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly into a thin layer.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled Cheez-Its and nuts (if using) over the chocolate.
5. Gently press the Cheez-Its and nuts into the chocolate.
6. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
8. Break the bark into pieces and store in an airtight container.

### 2. Cheez-It Caramel Popcorn Balls

These popcorn balls get a salty, smoky twist with the addition of crumbled Cheez-Its.

**Ingredients:**

* 12 cups popped popcorn
* 1 cup sugar
* 1/2 cup butter
* 1/4 cup light corn syrup
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup crumbled Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo

**Instructions:**

1. Place the popcorn in a large bowl.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Continue to boil for 5 minutes, without stirring.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn and stir to coat evenly.
6. Stir in the crumbled Cheez-Its.
7. Let the mixture cool slightly, then use your hands (lightly buttered or oiled) to form the popcorn into balls.
8. Wrap the popcorn balls individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

### 3. Smoked Cheez-It Ice Cream Topping

Transform your favorite ice cream into a salty-sweet masterpiece with this easy topping.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Crush the Cheez-Its into small pieces. You can use a food processor or place them in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
3. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Cheez-Its, melted butter, brown sugar, and smoked paprika (if using).
4. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture is golden brown and slightly caramelized.
6. Let cool completely before using as an ice cream topping.

## Tips and Tricks for Cooking with Cheez-Its

* **Crushing:** For recipes that require crushed Cheez-Its, use a food processor for a fine crumb or a rolling pin for a more textured crush.
* **Storage:** Store leftover crushed Cheez-Its in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming stale.
* **Adjusting Seasoning:** Taste your dishes as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. The Cheez-Its will add salt and smoky flavor, so you may need to reduce the amount of salt you add.
* **Experimentation:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations and recipes. The possibilities are endless!

The Cheez-It Extra Toasty Smoked Combo is more than just a snack; it’s a culinary ingredient waiting to be explored. With a little creativity, you can transform this familiar cracker into something truly special, adding a unique smoky and toasty flavor to your favorite dishes. So, grab a box and start experimenting in the kitchen – you might just surprise yourself with what you create!