Introduction
If you love homemade snacks with a rich, cheesy flavor and a satisfying crunch, these Southern Cheese Crackers are perfect for you! Made with sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and a blend of spices, these crackers are the ultimate treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them on their own, serve them with a dip, or pair them with a charcuterie board, these crackers will quickly become a household favorite. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make at home with simple ingredients.
Follow this step-by-step guide to making your own batch of crispy, cheesy Southern Cheese Crackers, and impress your family and friends with a delicious, homemade snack.
Tools Needed
To make these homemade cheese crackers, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Knife or small cookie cutter
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Cooking Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: ~40 crackers
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika (or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and shredded cheddar cheese together until smooth. If using a food processor, pulse until well combined.
Add the flour, salt, paprika (or cayenne), and garlic powder (if using). Mix until the dough becomes crumbly.
Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together into a ball. If needed, knead it gently with your hands.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough
Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a knife or small cookie cutter to cut the dough into squares, circles, or any shape you prefer.
Use a fork to poke holes in each cracker. This prevents them from puffing up too much while baking.
Step 4: Bake the Crackers
Arrange the crackers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crackers turn golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on the thickness of your dough.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows them to crisp up even more.
Tips for Success
- Use sharp cheddar cheese: The stronger the cheese, the more flavorful your crackers will be.
- Keep the butter soft but not melted: This helps create a smooth dough that’s easy to roll out.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid tough crackers.
- Roll evenly: Ensure the dough is the same thickness throughout for even baking.
- Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of black pepper, smoked paprika, or even a bit of dried herbs for extra flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: These crackers pair wonderfully with dips like pimento cheese, ranch dressing, or hummus. You can also serve them alongside soups or salads for a crunchy bite.
- Storage: Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them crisp for longer, store them in a dry place.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked cracker dough for up to 2 months. Simply roll out, cut, and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can use parmesan, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
2. How do I make these crackers extra crispy?
Roll the dough very thin and bake until golden brown. You can also let them cool completely before storing to ensure they stay crunchy.
3. Can I make these crackers gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
4. What if I don’t have a rolling pin?
You can press the dough flat with your hands or use a clean bottle as a makeshift rolling pin.
5. Can I make these crackers spicier?
Definitely! Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the dough for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Homemade Southern Cheese Crackers are an easy and delicious snack that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for a party, game night, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cheesy bites are sure to impress. With their buttery texture and rich cheddar flavor, they’re a true Southern classic that you’ll want to make again and again. Try them out today and enjoy the taste of homemade goodness!
