Seed Crackers with Avocado Ricotta Spread

Lightly crisp seed crackers paired with a creamy avocado and ricotta spread make an irresistible snack or appetizer. Packed with nourishing seeds—flax, chia, sesame, sunflower, and pumpkin—these crackers deliver a satisfying crunch and a boost of healthy fats, fiber, and minerals. Topped with a zesty, garlicky avocado-ricotta mixture, they transform into a gourmet bite that’s perfect for entertaining, lunchboxes, or a wholesome afternoon pick-me-up.

Cooking Time

Preparation: 20 minutes
Resting (seed gel): 15 minutes
Baking: 25–30 minutes
Assembly: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Seed Crackers:

• 1 cup (100 g) brown flaxseeds

• ½ cup (75 g) chia seeds

• 500 ml water

• 4 Tbsp (40 g) sesame seeds

• 4 Tbsp (40 g) sunflower seeds

• 2 Tbsp (20 g) pumpkin seeds

• 1 tsp salt

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp ground turmeric

• 30 ml (2 Tbsp) extra-virgin olive oil

For the Avocado Ricotta Spread:

• 1 ripe avocado

• Juice of ½ lemon

• ½ medium tomato, seeded and finely chopped

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley

• 2 Tbsp ricotta cheese

• 1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 egg yolk

• Pinch of dried garlic powder

• Pinch of your favorite spice blend (e.g., Italian seasoning)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Create the Seed Gel
   In a medium bowl, combine flaxseeds, chia seeds, and water. Stir thoroughly and let stand for 15 minutes. The mixture will thicken into a gel that binds the crackers.

2. Mix in Remaining Seeds and Seasonings
   After the gel forms, add sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, salt, red pepper flakes, turmeric, and olive oil. Mix until all seeds are evenly coated.

3. Shape the Crackers
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seed mixture evenly into a thin rectangle or any desired shape, using a spatula. Score the surface lightly with a knife into 12–16 cracker shapes so they break apart easily after baking.

4. Bake
   Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Bake the seeded slab for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and dry to the touch. Rotate the pan halfway for even browning.

5. Cool and Break Apart
   Remove the tray and let cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, break along the score lines into individual crackers.

6. Prepare the Avocado Ricotta Spread
   In a mixing bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until smooth. Stir in lemon juice to brighten and prevent browning. Fold in the chopped tomato, parsley, ricotta, Parmesan, and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, dried garlic powder, and your spice blend. Finally, whisk in the egg yolk to enrich and bind the spread.

7. Assemble and Serve
   Spoon or pipe the avocado ricotta spread onto each cracker just before serving to keep crackers crisp. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving: 2 crackers + spread)

• Calories: 180 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 8 g

• Protein: 5 g

• Fat: 14 g

• Fiber: 6 g

• Sugar: 1 g

• Sodium: 210 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Seed-based flatbreads and crackers trace back to ancient civilizations where ground seeds and grains were mixed with water and baked. Modern “seed crackers” emerged from health-food trends in the early 2000s, prized for their gluten-free, nutrient-dense profile. Avocado spreads, inspired by traditional guacamole, evolved with the addition of dairy for creaminess—ricotta and Parmesan lend an Italian-inspired twist. Today, the combination of seed crackers with a dairy-enhanced avocado spread is a favorite in wellness communities, tapas bars, and home kitchens seeking quick, healthful snacks.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Wholesome Crunch: A medley of seeds delivers texture and satiety.

• Creamy Contrast: Avocado and cheese balance the crisp cracker.

• Customizable Heat: Spice level adjusts easily with red pepper or chiles.

• Make-Ahead Convenience: Crackers store for days; spread whips up in minutes.

Health Benefits

• Flax & Chia Seeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.

• Sunflower & Pumpkin Seeds: Provide zinc, magnesium, and plant-based protein.

• Avocado: High in monounsaturated fats, potassium, and vitamins E and C.

• Olive Oil & Garlic: Support cardiovascular health and immune function.

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange on a grazing board with olives, cured meats, and fresh vegetables.

• Pair with chilled cucumber-mint yogurt dip for a refreshing contrast.

• Serve alongside a green salad with citrus vinaigrette for a light lunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Too Thick a Layer: Overly thick crackers bake unevenly—spread thinly.

• Under-scoring Shapes: Light scoring prevents wavy edges but still allows clean breaks.

• Skipping Cool-Down: Hot crackers remain soft—cool completely for crispness.

• Adding Spread Early: Top just before serving to avoid soggy crackers.

Pairing Recommendations

• Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry rosé complements nutty seeds and rich spread.

• Beer: A light lager or wheat beer refreshes the palate.

• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with cucumber and mint or iced herbal tea.

Cooking Tips

• Uniform Spreading: Use an offset spatula for an even, paper-thin layer.

• Flavor Boost: Stir a teaspoon of lemon zest into the spread for extra brightness.

• Batch Baking: Double the crackers and freeze extras in a zip-lock bag.

• Textural Variation: Top spread with pomegranate arils or finely chopped nuts.

Similar Recipes to Try

• Sesame & Parmesan Crisps

• Almond & Herb Flatbreads

• Coconut Flour Crackers

Variations to Try

• Herb-Infused: Mix chopped rosemary or thyme into seed batter.

• Spicy Seed Crackers: Add chili powder or cayenne to the cracker mix.

• Vegan Spread: Replace egg yolk with hemp seeds and omit cheese.

• Sweet & Savory: Drizzle crackers with honey and top with goat cheese instead.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chia Seeds
These tiny seeds swell into a gel when hydrated, acting as a binder in gluten-free baking. They supply plant-based omega-3s, fiber, and protein, making them a powerhouse ingredient in health-focused recipes.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting guests or craving a nutrient-dense snack, these Seed Crackers with Avocado Ricotta Spread deliver crunch, creaminess, and balanced flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection—enjoy them fresh, store extras, and experiment with your favorite seeds and seasonings!

FAQ

1. Can I make the crackers gluten-free?
   Yes—this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it relies solely on seeds.

2. How do I store leftover crackers?
   Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze the seed crackers?
   Yes—freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature.

4. Is the spread safe to make ahead?
   Prepare up to 4 hours ahead; store covered in the refrigerator to prevent browning.

5. What if I don’t have ricotta?
   Substitute Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar texture.

6. How can I increase protein content?
   Add a tablespoon of hemp seeds to the cracker mix or stir cottage cheese into the spread.

7. Can I omit the egg yolk in the spread?
   The yolk adds creaminess—omit and add extra ricotta if desired.

8. Why are my crackers chewy in the center?
   Bake until golden and fully dry; thinly spread batter and ensure adequate bake time.

9. What other vegetables work in the spread?
   Finely minced bell pepper or shredded carrot add color and crunch.

10. Can I make a spicy version?
    Stir chili flakes into the cracker batter and spread for a kick