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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing a lightly floured work surface for dough manipulation.
- Carefully roll the chilled dough to a precise 1/8-inch thickness, ensuring uniform consistency across the surface.
- Utilize a well-floured cookie cutter or sharp knife to meticulously slice the dough into individual cracker shapes, maintaining clean edges.
- Arrange the cut crackers on ungreased baking sheets, positioning them with slight separation to promote even heating.
- Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for a delicate golden-brown coloration around the perimeter.
- Remove crackers from the oven and allow them to rest on the baking sheets for a brief period to stabilize their structure.
- 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