Savory Southern Cheese Crackers Recipe: Homemade Snack Magic

Southern comfort meets crispy delight in these mouthwatering southern cheese crackers that pack a serious punch of flavor.

Cheese lovers will instantly fall for this irresistible snack crafted with sharp cheddar and a hint of spice.

Homemade goodness radiates from every golden, flaky bite.

Local kitchens have long celebrated these addictive little morsels as the perfect companion to soups and salads.

Rustic and elegant, these crackers bring a touch of southern charm to any gathering.

Memories of grandma’s kitchen come flooding back with each crisp, savory crunch.

We dare you to stop at just one handful!

Southern Cheese Crackers That Bring The Bite-Sized Charm

• Speedy Southern Snack: Whip up these delightful cheese crackers in under an hour, perfect for sudden hunger pangs or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor-Packed Delight: Loaded with sharp cheddar, pecans, and a hint of cayenne, these crackers deliver a bold, southern-style taste explosion that'll keep everyone coming back for more.
• Simple Homemade Magic: Minimal ingredients and easy steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels, transforming basic pantry staples into a gourmet-style treat that looks and tastes impressive.
• Versatile Party Pleaser: Serve as an appetizer, game day snack, or elegant cocktail accompaniment – these crackers shine in any social setting and complement both casual and sophisticated events.

Cheese Cracker Dough Essentials

• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp, flavorful cheese that provides the main taste and richness of the crackers.
• Butter: Adds richness, helps bind ingredients, and creates a tender texture.

• Flour: Provides structure and helps form the cracker dough.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the cheese's richness.
• Cayenne Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and spicy kick to the crackers.
• Black Pepper: Provides a mild, warming spice and depth of flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Offers a savory, aromatic background note.

• Pecans: Brings a nutty crunch and extra texture to the crackers, typical of Southern-style baking.

Steps To Make Southern Cheese Crackers

Step 1: Create Cheesy Dough

Mix together all ingredients using your hands until a soft, cohesive dough forms.

• Cheddar cheese
• Softened butter
• Kosher salt
• Cayenne pepper
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Chopped pecans
• Flour

Work the ingredients until they bind into a smooth mixture that holds together easily.

Step 2: Rest and Chill Dough

Shape the dough into a flat disk and tightly wrap with plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up and develop deeper flavors.

Step 3: Prepare Baking Surface

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Dust a clean countertop with flour to prevent sticking.

Roll out the chilled dough to a thin 1/8-inch thickness using a rolling pin.

Step 4: Shape Crackers

Use a sharp knife or decorative cookie cutter to slice dough into desired cracker shapes.

Work quickly to keep dough cold and maintain its texture.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Arrange crackers on ungreased baking sheets, ensuring they do not touch.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching carefully until edges turn light golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Crisp

Transfer crackers to a wire cooling rack.

Allow them to cool completely, during which they will become crisp and develop a satisfying crunch.

Cracker Tips With Southern Cheesy Charm

• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, gruyere, or parmesan to create unique flavor profiles and add depth to your crackers.
• Chill dough thoroughly to prevent spreading and ensure crisp, clean-edged crackers that maintain their shape during baking.
• Toast pecans lightly before adding to the dough to intensify their nutty flavor and create a more robust texture in the crackers.
• Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to match your heat tolerance, ranging from a subtle warmth to a more pronounced kick depending on personal preference.
• Store completely cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain crispness.

Southern Cheese Crackers: How to Store with Care

• Store crackers in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to maintain crispness and prevent breakage for up to 5 days.
• Seal crackers in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, separating layers with wax paper, and freeze for up to 3 months for extended enjoyment.
• Crisp crackers in a preheated 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes to restore their original texture and warmth.
• Allow frozen crackers to thaw naturally at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to preserve their delicate flavor and crunch.

Crunchy Matches For Cheese Crackers

• Sip Southern Bourbon: Pair these spicy, cheesy crackers with a smooth Kentucky bourbon like Woodford Reserve, which complements the sharp cheddar and adds warmth.
• Crunch with Charcuterie: Serve alongside a selection of cured meats like prosciutto or salami, creating a delightful balance between the crackers' nutty pecan flavor and the meat's rich saltiness.
• Dip in Tangy Spreads: Match with a zesty herb-infused goat cheese spread or a spicy pepper jelly, enhancing the crackers' cayenne kick and providing a creamy contrast to their crisp texture.
• Cool with White Wine: Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness of the cheese and butter, refreshing the palate between bites.

Cheddar-Rich Southern Cheese Cracker Twists

• Gluten-Free Nut Crackers: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free all-purpose flour for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals. Perfect for those avoiding wheat.
• Spicy Jalapeño Cheese Crackers: Swap pecans with finely chopped jalapeños and add extra cayenne pepper for heat lovers seeking a fiery snack experience.
• Herb-Infused Parmesan Crackers: Substitute cheddar with grated parmesan and mix in dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an elegant, aromatic version of the classic cracker.
• Vegan Nutritional Yeast Crackers: Use plant-based butter alternative, nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and ground flaxseed to bind ingredients for dairy-free and vegan friends.

FAQs

• Why are pecans used in these crackers?

Pecans add a rich, buttery flavor and provide a delightful crunch that complements the sharp cheddar cheese, creating a signature Southern texture and taste.

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 2-3 days in advance and keep it wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes preparation easier when you’re ready to bake.

• How do I know when the crackers are perfectly baked?

Look for light golden brown edges and a slightly firm texture. The crackers will crisp up more as they cool, so don’t overbake them.

• Are these crackers gluten-free?

No, these crackers contain flour. To make them gluten-free, you would need to substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Southern Cheese Crackers Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Southern charm meets savory delight in these irresistible Southern Cheese Crackers, blending sharp cheddar and buttery goodness into crisp, golden bites. Guests will crave these homemade crackers that deliver pure Southern hospitality with each delectable crunch.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (473 ml) freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups (188 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60 grams) finely chopped pecans

Dairy and Fat Ingredients:

• 8 tablespoons (113 grams) salted butter, softened

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon (5 grams) kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (1 gram) cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 grams) freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon (0.25 grams) garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Craft a comprehensive mixture by thoroughly blending cheddar cheese, softened butter, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, chopped pecans, and flour using your hands until a cohesive dough develops.
2. Mold the dough into a compact disk, encase it securely in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to enhance flavor integration and texture.
3. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing a lightly floured work surface for dough manipulation.
4. Carefully roll the chilled dough to a precise 1/8-inch thickness, ensuring uniform consistency across the surface.
5. Utilize a well-floured cookie cutter or sharp knife to meticulously slice the dough into individual cracker shapes, maintaining clean edges.
6. Arrange the cut crackers on ungreased baking sheets, positioning them with slight separation to promote even heating.
7. Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for a delicate golden-brown coloration around the perimeter.
8. Remove crackers from the oven and allow them to rest on the baking sheets for a brief period to stabilize their structure.
9. Transfer the crackers to a wire cooling rack, permitting them to cool completely and develop a crisp, satisfying texture.

Notes

• Ensure butter and cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother dough consistency.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Roll dough evenly to guarantee uniform cracker thickness and consistent baking.
• Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on personal spice tolerance for customized heat level.
• Store crackers in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent moisture absorption.
• Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking during baking.
• Create gluten-free version by substituting regular flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern (American)

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg