Description
Introducing the Cheesy Pecan Delights, a scrumptious treat that combines sharp cheddar cheese with the nutty texture of pecans, all enhanced with a touch of spice. This recipe is perfect for any snack table, offering a satisfying crunch and vibrant flavors that are bound to please any cheese lover. Ideal for gatherings, these bite-sized delights can easily become your go-to recipe for easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing snacks.
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
Step-by-step Directions
1. Mix Cheese and Butter
Beat the cheese and butter together until the mixture is fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes using an electric mixer.
2. Add Seasonings
Incorporate the kosher salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder into the fluffy cheese-butter mixture.
3. Incorporate Flour
Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing gently until a cohesive dough forms. Ensure the addition is gradual to maintain the texture of the dough.
4. Form Logs
Shape the dough into two 1-inch diameter logs. Wrap these logs in parchment paper or plastic wrap and twist the ends sealed. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to harden.
5. Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
6. Slice and Bake
Remove the chilled dough logs and slice into 1/8-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices approximately 1/4 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
7. Cool
Once baked, transfer the Cheesy Pecan Delights onto a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely to achieve the perfect texture.
Servings & Preparation Time
The recipe yields about 40 pieces and the preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for baking. Including the chilling time, the total effort spans around an hour and 5 minutes.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store the cooled Cheesy Pecan Delights in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature.
- Reheating: If needed, quickly warm them in a 350F oven for about 3-4 minutes to refresh the flavors and crispness.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Pecan Delights are a brilliant choice for anyone looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make snack that pairs well with a variety of settings and tastes. With their savory profile and satisfying texture courtesy of nuts and cheese, these delights promise to impress guests and satisfy those afternoon cravings efficiently. Beyond their immediate enjoyment, their ease of storage and ability to reheat make them a practical choice for advanced preparation and reuse. Give this recipe a try and watch the Cheesy Pecan Delights take center stage at your next gathering!
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Cheesy Pecan Delights
- Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
- Yield: 40 pieces 1x
Description
Introducing the Cheesy Pecan Delights, a scrumptious treat that combines sharp cheddar cheese with the nutty texture of pecans, all enhanced with a touch of spice. This recipe is perfect for any snack table, offering a satisfying crunch and vibrant flavors that are bound to please any cheese lover. Ideal for gatherings, these bite-sized delights can easily become your go-to recipe for easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing snacks.
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
- Mix Cheese and Butter: Beat the cheese and butter together until the mixture is fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Seasonings: Incorporate the kosher salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder into the fluffy cheese-butter mixture.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing gently until a cohesive dough forms. Ensure the addition is gradual to maintain the texture of the dough.
- Form Logs: Shape the dough into two 1-inch diameter logs. Wrap these logs in parchment paper or plastic wrap and twist the ends sealed. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to harden.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Slice and Bake: Remove the chilled dough logs and slice into 1/8-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices approximately 1/4 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Cool: Once baked, transfer the Cheesy Pecan Delights onto a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely to achieve the perfect texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes