There is something truly irresistible about these Crispy Cheesy Southern Cheese Crackers Recipe that makes them a standout snack for any occasion. Imagine biting into a cracker that is perfectly crisp, bursting with sharp cheddar flavor, and has just the right touch of spice that keeps you coming back for more. These little crisps are not only baked to golden perfection but carry a delightful southern charm that makes them a must-have on your snack table. Whether you are serving guests or treating yourself, this recipe promises an addictive crunch and cheesy goodness you won’t forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these crackers lies in their simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the creamy sharpness of cheddar to the subtle heat from the cayenne pepper, blending into a cracker that’s both flavorful and beautifully textured.
- Extra sharp cheddar cheese (1 lb, grated): The heart of this recipe providing bold, tangy flavor and a wonderful cheesy richness.
- Cold unsalted butter (1 stick, cubed): Adds flakiness and a tender texture, making the crackers delightfully crisp.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base that brings structure and lightness to each cracker; gluten-free flour works too!
- Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces a subtle kick without overpowering the cheese.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor and balances the richness perfectly.
- Hot sauce (2-3 dashes): Injects a nuanced spicy depth for that southern twist.
- Heavy cream (6-8 tablespoons): Binds the dough and keeps the crackers moist inside while crisping up beautifully on the outside.
How to Make Crispy Cheesy Southern Cheese Crackers Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Butter
Start by pulsing the flour, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper together in a food processor until mixed. Adding cold butter cubes along with hot sauce next, pulse again until the mixture resembles coarse meal. This coarse texture is key to getting those flaky, crispy crackers everyone loves.
Step 2: Incorporate the Cheese
Next, add the grated extra sharp cheddar cheese. Pulse until you see the cheese evenly folded into the mixture. If your processor is small, split the dough into two batches for even mixing. This step ensures that every bite will deliver that rich, cheesy punch.
Step 3: Add the Heavy Cream
Add the heavy cream one tablespoon at a time, pulsing after each addition until the dough just begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. You want a crumbly but cohesive dough that’s easy to handle but not overly wet. Usually, it takes about 6-8 tablespoons for the full batch or less if working in halves.
Step 4: Shape and Chill the Dough Logs
Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and press into a ball. Don’t worry if it’s a little crumbly—that’s normal. Divide the dough in half and shape each into a log about 12 to 14 inches long. Wrapping the logs in parchment or wax paper helps keep their shape. Chill the logs wrapped in plastic wrap for several hours to firm up before slicing.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Proper oven temperature ensures the crackers crisp up perfectly without burning.
Step 6: Slice and Arrange on Baking Sheet
Slice the chilled dough logs as thinly and evenly as possible. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them since they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 7: Add Finishing Touches
If you want, sprinkle a pinch of extra kosher salt or paprika over the tops for an appealing golden color and added flavor. You can also gently prick the crackers with a fork for a charming design and to help them bake evenly.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake your crackers for 10 to 12 minutes until they’re a gorgeous golden brown and irresistibly crisp. Keep a close eye on them as ovens vary, and you want that perfect crunch, not burnt edges.
How to Serve Crispy Cheesy Southern Cheese Crackers Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or thyme adds a fresh, vibrant touch that pairs beautifully with the cheese flavor. A small dab of flavored cream cheese or a drizzle of honey can also elevate the experience when serving these crackers.
Side Dishes
These crackers shine alongside rich pimento cheese spreads, tangy pickles, or a bowl of hearty soup like tomato bisque or chicken gumbo. Their crunch provides a delightful contrast that makes every bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these crackers in a rustic wooden bowl, or present them on a cheese board alongside cured meats, olives, and fresh fruit for an inviting southern-inspired appetizer platter. They also make terrific garnish for salads or creative soups, adding texture and flavor layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover crackers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispiness. They will stay fresh for up to a week, perfect for snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked dough logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and baking fresh. This saves time when you want a quick homemade snack on demand.
Reheating
If your crackers lose a bit of their crunch, pop them back into a warm oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes. Let them cool before serving again—they will crisp right up and taste as fresh as the day you baked them.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While extra sharp cheddar gives that classic southern flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like smoked gouda or parmesan for unique twists. Just be mindful of varying saltiness and texture.
Is it possible to make these crackers gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend like King Arthur’s Measure for Measure, you can enjoy these crackers without gluten while keeping the same great texture.
How thin should I slice the dough logs?
Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick. Thin slices bake evenly and become perfectly crispy. Thicker slices may be softer in the center and not as crunchy.
Can I make smaller batches of this recipe?
Definitely. You can halve or quarter the recipe as needed, but be aware that very small batches may require careful attention when pulsing in a food processor to ensure even mixing.
What is the best way to add spice without overpowering the cheese?
Using just a half teaspoon of cayenne pepper and a few dashes of hot sauce gives just enough heat to accentuate the cheddar’s flavor without overwhelming it. You can always adjust to your personal spice tolerance.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Cheesy Southern Cheese Crackers Recipe have become a beloved favorite in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try them. With simple ingredients, a straightforward process, and a result that’s bursting with flavor and crunch, they’re perfect for snack time, entertaining, or whenever crispy cheesy goodness is calling your name. So grab your grater, roll up your sleeves, and dive into making these addictive crackers that celebrate southern flavors with every bite!
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Crispy Cheesy Southern Cheese Crackers Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 dozen crackers
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
These Crispy Cheesy Southern Cheese Crackers are a delightful, savory snack featuring sharp cheddar cheese, a hint of cayenne for spice, and a buttery, crunchy texture. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, these crackers offer a homemade, Southern-inspired flavor that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or just by themselves as a crispy treat.
Ingredients
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
Wet Ingredients
- 1 stick cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- 2–3 dashes of hot sauce
- 6–8 tablespoons heavy cream
Cheese
- 1 lb extra sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: Add the flour, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper to a food processor. Pulse several times to thoroughly combine the spices with the flour.
- Add butter and hot sauce: Incorporate the cubed cold unsalted butter and hot sauce into the food processor. Run the processor for about 10 seconds until the mixture achieves a coarse meal consistency.
- Incorporate cheese: Add the grated extra sharp cheddar cheese and pulse until the cheese is evenly mixed into the dough. If your food processor is small, split the mixture into two batches for easier processing.
- Add cream and bring dough together: Gradually add heavy cream by the tablespoon, pulsing each time, until the mixture begins to pull away from the sides of the processor. Typically, 3 to 4 tablespoons are needed per smaller batch, or 6 to 8 tablespoons for the full batch.
- Shape dough into logs: Transfer the mixture onto a clean surface and press it into a ball. It may still be crumbly. Divide the ball in half and shape each half into a log. For easier handling, wrap logs in wax or parchment paper. If divided, you should end up with four logs approximately 12 to 14 inches long. Wrap each log tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for several hours.
- Preheat oven: Heat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) in preparation for baking.
- Prepare baking sheet and slice logs: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove chilled logs from the fridge and slice as evenly and thinly as possible. Arrange slices spaced a bit apart on the baking sheet, allowing room for slight spreading during baking.
- Add finishing touches: Optionally, sprinkle extra salt or paprika over the slices for enhanced flavor and color. For decorative effect, you can prick each wafer with a fork before baking.
- Bake crackers: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the slices for 10 to 12 minutes. Bake until the crackers are golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving to ensure maximum crunchiness.
Notes
- Use cold butter to ensure a flaky, crispy texture.
- If you prefer gluten-free crackers, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend like King Arthur’s Measure for Measure.
- Adjust cayenne pepper and hot sauce to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Chilling the dough logs is essential for easy slicing and to maintain shape during baking.
- Store leftover crackers in an airtight container to preserve crispness.
- Try different cheeses like smoked gouda or parmesan for varied flavor profiles.
