Description
These Crispy Cheesy Southern Cheese Crackers are a perfect blend of sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of cayenne pepper, baked to golden, crunchy perfection. Easy to prepare, they make a delicious snack or appetizer with a cheesy, spicy kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (King Arthur’s Measure for Measure Gluten-Free Flour can be substituted)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 lb extra sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- 1 stick cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- 6-8 tablespoons heavy cream
Other
- 2-3 dashes of hot sauce
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper to a food processor and pulse several times until mixed.
- Add Butter and Hot Sauce: Add the cold, cubed butter and hot sauce to the processor. Run for about 10 seconds until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Add Cheese: Add the grated cheddar cheese and pulse until evenly mixed. For small food processors, divide the mixture to ensure proper blending.
- Incorporate Cream: Slowly add heavy cream by the tablespoon while pulsing until the mixture starts to pull away from the sides. This will take about 3-4 tablespoons if divided into smaller batches, or 6-8 tablespoons for the full batch.
- Shape the Dough: Turn the mixture onto a clean surface and press into a ball. It may be crumbly. Cut the ball in half, shape each half into a log. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and chill for several hours to firm up.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice and Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the chilled logs as thinly and evenly as possible. Arrange slices spaced slightly apart on the baking sheet. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra salt or paprika on top for flavor and color, and prick with a fork for design.
- Bake: Bake the crackers for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and cool before serving.
Notes
- Chilling the dough logs is essential for easier slicing and better shape retention during baking.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend.
- Thinly slicing the logs ensures crispy crackers that bake evenly.
- Customize heat by adjusting the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to taste.
- Store baked crackers in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
