Cheese Crispies

Cheese Crispies:

Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a savory snack that’s perfect for any occasion, these Cheese Crispies are just the ticket. With a delightful crunch and a hint of spice, these snacks are sure to be a hit. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crunchy Texture: The crispy rice cereal adds a delightful crunch.
• Cheesy Goodness: Sharp cheddar cheese gives these crispies a rich, savory flavor.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze.
• Perfect Snack: Great for parties, gatherings, or just as a tasty snack.

• Cuisine Type: American
• Servings: Makes about 24 crispies
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups butter, softened to room temperature
• 3 cups finely grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal

Directions:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, add the cayenne pepper and salt to the sifted flour. Mix well.
2. Incorporate the Butter:
   • Cut the butter into the flour mixture. Work the mixture between your fingers to produce a cornmeal-like consistency.
3. Add Cheese and Cereal:
   • Add the finely grated sharp cheddar cheese and crispy rice cereal to the mixture. Continue to combine with your fingers. The more you mix, the more dough-like the mixture will become, and it will better hold the crispies together.
4. Form the Balls:
   • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, pressing them together in your hands to ensure they hold their shape.
5. Prepare for Baking:
   • Place the balls on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Press the balls flat with a fork or the bottom of a flour-covered glass.
6. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15 minutes or until golden.
7. Cool and Store:
   • Allow the crispies to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.

Variations:

• Herb-Flavored: Add a teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
• Different Cheeses: Try using different types of cheese like Parmesan or Gouda for a new twist.

Equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Fork or flour-covered glass
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper

Storage:

Store the cheese crispies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What to Serve with This Recipe:

These cheese crispies are perfect on their own as a snack, but they also pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or as part of a cheese platter.

Tips:

• Even Size: Try to roll the dough into evenly sized balls to ensure they bake uniformly.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the crispies as they bake to prevent them from becoming too dark or burnt.
• Cool Completely: Let the crispies cool completely before storing to maintain their crunch.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

A: Pre-shredded cheese can be used, but freshly grated cheese will give a better texture and flavor.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Yes, these crispies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container.

Q: How do I make sure the crispies hold together?

A: Mixing the dough thoroughly and pressing the balls together firmly will help the crispies hold their shape.

Approximate Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 150 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 8g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 4g