Southern Cheese Crackers: Bold, Buttery, and Packed with Flavor
These Southern Cheese Crackers are a delightful combination of sharp cheddar cheese, buttery pecans, and a hint of spice from cayenne pepper and black pepper. Baked to a light golden color, they are perfectly flaky with a satisfying crunch. Each bite brings out the rich, savory flavor of cheddar, balanced with a slight heat and the nutty notes from finely chopped pecans.
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: In a mixing bowl, beat together the shredded cheddar cheese and softened butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add Seasonings: Mix in the kosher salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of ice water to help it come together.
- Shape and Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a log about 1 inch in diameter. Wrap each log in parchment or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice and Bake: Slice the chilled dough into 1/8-inch rounds and place them about 1/4 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake and Cool: Bake for 15 minutes or until the crackers are lightly golden. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Flavor Boost: Sprinkle a bit of sea salt or smoked paprika on top before baking for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.