Description
These melt-in-your-mouth Southern Cheese Crackers are irresistibly buttery and packed with sharp cheddar flavor. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they are easy to make with simple ingredients and bake up to golden, crisp perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Cracker Dough
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1–2 tablespoons cold water, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Set your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Combine ingredients for the dough: In a food processor or mixing bowl, mix shredded cheddar cheese, softened butter, flour, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Pulse or stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring the butter is evenly distributed.
- Add cold water to form dough: Gradually add cold water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition, until the dough just holds together when pressed, avoiding over-wetting to keep the texture crisp.
- Roll out the dough and cut crackers: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a ¼-inch thick sheet. Use a small cookie cutter—square, round, or any desired shape—to cut out your crackers fresh from the dough.
- Arrange and prepare for baking: Lay the cut crackers on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to prevent sticking. Prick the tops lightly with a fork to create a traditional look and help them bake evenly.
- Bake until golden and crisp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the crackers become firm and crisp to the touch.
- Cool and store: Remove the crackers from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Notes
- Store crackers in an airtight container at room temperature; they stay fresh for up to 1 week.
- For a bolder cheese flavor, substitute extra-sharp cheddar or add some grated Parmesan cheese to the dough.
