Description
Delve into the delightful world of Southern Cheese Crisps, a savory treat that intertwines sharp cheddar with a hint of spice to create a perfect snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a flavorful accompaniment to your meal, these cheese crisps serve up a delicious blend of taste and texture, all while being simple to make.
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. Prepare the Dough
Using a mixer, beat the shredded cheese and softened butter until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes. Achieving a light, flaky texture is crucial for the perfect crisp.
2. Add Spices
Into the fluffy mixture, blend in the salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder. This combination will ensure each crisp is bursting with flavor.
3. Incorporate the Flour
Gradually mix in the flour, adding 1/2 cup at a time. Stir well after each addition until a cohesive dough forms. For drier doughs, particularly when using pre-shredded cheese, add 1-2 tablespoons of ice water to smooth it out.
4. Shape and Chill the Dough
Form the dough into two logs, each about 1 inch in diameter, and wrap them in parchment or plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough, making it easier to slice.
5. Preheat and Prepare for Baking
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
6. Slice and Bake
Cut the logs into thin rounds, roughly 1/8 inch thick. Spread these rounds on the prepared baking sheets, keeping them about 1/4 inch apart. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges are a light golden brown.
7. Cooling
Remove the crisps from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely to achieve the best texture and flavor.
Servings and Preparation/Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 dozen crisps. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling, and 15 minutes for baking.
Tips for Storage and Reheating
- Store cooled cheese crisps in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
- For rejuvenating leftover crisps, reheat them in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes until they are warm and crispy.
Conclusion
Southern Cheese Crisps are not only delicious but also offer a wonderful opportunity to showcase your baking skills with a simple yet flavorful recipe. Their crisp texture and robust flavor profile make them an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual snacking to sophisticated party appetizers. Try making a batch and watch them become an instant favorite!
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Southern Cheese Crisps
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 dozen crisps 1x
Description
Delve into the delightful world of Southern Cheese Crisps, a savory treat that intertwines sharp cheddar with a hint of spice to create a perfect snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a flavorful accompaniment to your meal, these cheese crisps serve up a delicious blend of taste and texture, all while being simple to make.
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
- Prepare the Dough Using a mixer, beat the shredded cheese and softened butter until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes. Achieving a light, flaky texture is crucial for the perfect crisp.
- Add Spices Into the fluffy mixture, blend in the salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder. This combination will ensure each crisp is bursting with flavor.
- Incorporate the Flour Gradually mix in the flour, adding 1/2 cup at a time. Stir well after each addition until a cohesive dough forms. For drier doughs, particularly when using pre-shredded cheese, add 1-2 tablespoons of ice water to smooth it out.
- Shape and Chill the Dough Form the dough into two logs, each about 1 inch in diameter, and wrap them in parchment or plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough, making it easier to slice.
- Preheat and Prepare for Baking Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Slice and Bake Cut the logs into thin rounds, roughly 1/8 inch thick. Spread these rounds on the prepared baking sheets, keeping them about 1/4 inch apart. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges are a light golden brown.
- Cooling Remove the crisps from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes