Description: These Southern Cheese Crackers are a delightful and savory snack that perfectly captures the essence of Southern comfort food. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and a blend of spices, these crackers offer a rich, cheesy flavor with a hint of warmth from cayenne pepper. The addition of finely chopped pecans provides a satisfying crunch, making them irresistible. Perfect for parties, snacks, or as a complement to soups and salads, these homemade cheese crackers are incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) salted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Preparation:
Step 1: Cream the Cheese and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese and softened butter. Use an electric mixer (or a sturdy spoon if you’re doing it by hand) to beat these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This typically takes about 3 minutes. Ensuring the cheese and butter are well combined is crucial for achieving the right texture—a light, flaky cracker that melts in your mouth.
Step 2: Incorporate Spices
Once the cheese and butter are properly creamed, add the kosher salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder to the bowl. Mix well until all the spices are thoroughly blended into the cheese mixture. This step is vital for creating a balanced, savory flavor with a subtle kick of heat. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference; a little goes a long way!
Step 3: Add Flour and Form Dough
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the cheese and spice mixture, incorporating it about ½ cup at a time. Stir after each addition until a dough begins to form. As you mix, pay attention to the dough’s consistency. If your cheese is on the drier side (or if you’re using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents), you might need a bit of extra moisture to help the dough come together smoothly. If necessary, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches the desired consistency. The dough should be firm but not crumbly.
Step 4: Shape and Chill the Dough
Once the dough has come together, divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log, about 1 inch in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap, twisting the ends to seal. Refrigerate the dough logs for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is essential because it makes it easier to slice and helps the crackers hold their shape during baking. If you’re short on time, you can chill the dough for a shorter period, but the longer it chills, the better the results will be.
Step 5: Preheat and Prepare for Baking
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the crackers from sticking. Parchment paper also helps ensure even baking and a consistent texture.
Step 6: Slice and Arrange Crackers
Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into thin rounds, about ⅛ inch thick. Arrange the cracker slices on the prepared baking sheets, placing them about ¼ inch apart to allow for even baking. Thin slices will result in crispier crackers, while slightly thicker slices will be a bit softer.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the crackers are light golden brown around the edges. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so watch for that golden brown color as your guide.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once the crackers are baked to a perfect golden brown, carefully transfer them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before serving. This is important because the crackers will continue to crisp up as they cool. Once cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Southern Cheese Crackers are more than just a snack; they’re an experience. The combination of sharp cheddar, butter, and spices creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. They’re incredibly versatile – perfect for snacking on their own, serving at parties, or pairing with your favorite soups and salads. Plus, they are so easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. The satisfying crunch of the pecans adds a delightful textural contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Once you try these homemade cheese crackers, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions.
Cooking Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a variety of cheeses and charcuterie for a sophisticated appetizer.
- Pair with creamy tomato soup or a hearty chili for a comforting meal.
- Offer as a snack with a cold glass of sweet tea or lemonade.
- Include on a cheese board with fruits, nuts, and jams for a delightful spread.
- Crumble over salads for added flavor and texture.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little sea salt, smoked paprika, or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
- If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds make a great substitute.
- Make a big batch and freeze the dough logs for future use. Simply thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
- Store these cheese crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their crispness.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximately 5 crackers)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion:
These Southern Cheese Crackers are a delightful addition to any occasion. Their rich, cheesy flavor, combined with a hint of spice and a satisfying crunch, makes them an irresistible snack. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, they are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious results. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use pre-shredded cheese? While freshly shredded cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use pre-shredded cheese in a pinch. However, keep in mind that pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the dough drier. If you use pre-shredded cheese, be sure to add 1-2 tablespoons of ice water to help the dough come together smoothly.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can absolutely make the dough ahead of time! In fact, chilling the dough is a crucial step in the recipe. You can prepare the dough logs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days before slicing and baking. This makes it convenient to have fresh cheese crackers whenever you want them.
- Can I freeze the dough? Yes, freezing the dough is a great option for longer storage. Wrap the dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking as directed.
- Can I add different spices or herbs? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your cheese crackers. Some great additions include smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
- What can I serve these crackers with? These Southern Cheese Crackers are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of accompaniments. They’re delicious on their own as a snack or appetizer, but they also pair well with cheeses, charcuterie, dips, soups, and salads. Try serving them with a creamy spinach and artichoke dip, a hearty chili, or a cheese board with fruits, nuts, and jams.
