Southern Cheese Crackers Recipe

Introduction

When I made these Southern Cheese Crackers for the first time, the whole family couldn’t stop munching on them! They have that perfect blend of sharp cheddar flavor with a hint of spice and nuttiness from the pecans. These crackers are flaky, crunchy, and packed with savory goodness, making them an ideal snack for parties or any occasion. They’re super easy to make and taste much better than store-bought crackers, with a rich homemade touch that’s irresistible!

Ingredients

• 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 tablespoons salted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: Beat the shredded cheese and softened butter together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This gives the crackers a flaky texture.
2. Add Seasonings: Mix in salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined for a balanced, savory flavor with a touch of heat.
3. Add Flour: Gradually add flour, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring after each addition until a dough forms. If needed, add 1-2 tablespoons of ice water for a smooth dough consistency.
4. Shape the Dough: Form the dough into two logs, each about 1 inch in diameter. Wrap each log in parchment or plastic wrap, twisting the ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the dough firm up.
5. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Slice and Bake: Slice the logs into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick, and place them 1/4 inch apart on the baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes or until light golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Transfer crackers to a cooling rack and let them cool completely before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: About 40-60 crackers
• Calories per serving: ~70 kcal (per cracker)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve

• On a snack platter: Pair with olives, cured meats, and other crackers for a snack board.
• With soup: Serve alongside tomato or butternut squash soup for extra flavor.
• With dips: Perfect with cream cheese, onion dip, or salsa.
• For party snacks: Place in small bowls around the room for easy snacking.
• With salads: Pair with light salads as a crunchy side.

Additional Tips

1. Use freshly shredded cheese: This improves the texture and flavor of the crackers.
2. Chill the dough well: Chilling helps the dough keep its shape when sliced and baked.
3. Adjust the heat: Reduce cayenne if you prefer milder crackers, or add more for extra spice.
4. Experiment with toppings: Try sprinkling sea salt or smoked paprika on top before baking.
5. Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Jalapeño: Add finely diced jalapeños to the dough for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Cheese Crackers: Add chopped rosemary or thyme for an herbaceous flavor.
• Nut-Free: Omit pecans if you prefer a simpler cracker or need a nut-free option.
• Cheddar and Parmesan Mix: Substitute part of the cheddar with Parmesan for a sharper taste.
• Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier, healthier version.

Serving Suggestions

• At parties: Set out in small bowls for easy grabbing.
• With wine and cheese: Pairs wonderfully with wine and a cheese platter.
• With salads: Light salads like arugula or Caesar are complemented by these crackers.
• In lunchboxes: Pack with other snacks for a crunchy treat.
• With appetizers: Serve alongside charcuterie boards for added variety.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store baked crackers in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Freezing Dough: Wrap logs in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw slightly before slicing and baking.
• Reheating: Refresh in a 350°F oven for a few minutes if they soften over time.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly shredded cheese is recommended for better texture and flavor, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.

Q2: Can I skip the pecans?
Yes, the pecans add texture, but you can omit them if you prefer a smooth cracker.

Q3: How long can I store these crackers?
They last up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q4: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q5: How do I keep the crackers crispy?
Store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp.

Q6: Can I freeze the crackers after baking?
Yes, but freezing may affect their crispiness. Refresh in the oven before serving.

Q7: Can I make them gluten-free?
Try a gluten-free flour blend; the texture may vary slightly.

Q8: How do I make them spicier?
Add more cayenne or diced jalapeños to the dough for extra heat.

Q9: Can I add herbs to the recipe?
Yes, rosemary, thyme, or chives can add a lovely herbal flavor.

Q10: Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, add an extra pinch of salt to compensate for flavor.

Conclusion
These Southern Cheese Crackers are a savory treat that brings a delightful homemade touch to any snack platter. Perfectly cheesy, flaky, and with a hint of spice, they’re ideal for parties, gatherings, or simply for enjoying on your own. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, this recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to snack. Enjoy these delicious bites anytime, and impress your guests with homemade crackers that taste better than any store-bought option!

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