Southern Cheese Crackers

Crunchy, cheesy, and full of Southern charm, these Southern Cheese Crackers are the perfect savory snack for any occasion. Made with sharp cheddar, a hint of spice, and a melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture, they’re addictively delicious and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re planning a party, prepping for game day, or just need a snack to go with sweet tea, these homemade cheese crackers hit the spot every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold Cheddar Flavor – Sharp cheese is the star of the show.
Crispy Texture – Buttery and crumbly, just like a Southern biscuit but in cracker form.
Simple Pantry Ingredients – Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen.
Easy to Make – Mix, roll, cut, and bake—no fancy tools required.
Perfect for Gifting or Entertaining – These crackers make a great homemade gift or appetizer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crackers:
1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (preferably white or yellow)
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for Southern flair)
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
2–3 tbsp cold water

Optional Add-Ins:
1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (for herb crackers)
1 tbsp grated Parmesan (for extra cheesy depth)
1 tsp black pepper (for a peppery kick)

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Electric mixer or food processor
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Knife or small cookie cutter
Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl or food processor, blend shredded cheese and softened butter until well combined.
2. Add flour, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.
3. Pulse or mix until crumbly, then slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape into a flat disc.
2. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. This step helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and cut.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Crackers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. On a floured surface, roll the dough out to about ⅛ inch thick.
4. Cut into squares using a knife or use small cookie cutters for fun shapes.
5. Transfer crackers to the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
6. Optional: Use a fork to prick the center of each cracker for a traditional look.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crisp

1. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the crackers are crisp.
2. Let them cool on a wire rack. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 5: Store or Serve

1. Once cooled completely, store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
2. Serve with dips, spreads, or enjoy them solo as a satisfying snack.

Tips for the Best Southern Cheese Crackers
Use Freshly Grated Cheese – It melts better and gives a fresher flavor than pre-shredded.
Chill the Dough – This prevents the crackers from spreading too much.
Watch the Oven – They go from golden to too-brown quickly; start checking at 14 minutes.
Customize the Flavor – Add herbs, spices, or even a touch of hot sauce to the dough for fun variations.
Double the Batch – These go fast, so make extras to freeze or gift.

Serving Suggestions
Pimento Cheese Dip – Go full Southern with a creamy, spicy dip.
Charcuterie Board – These crackers are a homemade upgrade from store-bought versions.
With Soup or Chili – A crunchy, cheesy bite to complement warm dishes.
Sweet Tea or Lemonade – Classic Southern drinks pair beautifully with these savory snacks.
Holiday Appetizers – Serve with pepper jelly or cheese balls during festive gatherings.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.

Freezing:
Freeze unbaked dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
To use, thaw in the fridge overnight, roll, cut, and bake as usual.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
   Yes, but freshly shredded gives better melt and flavor. Pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.
2. Are these spicy?
   They have a mild kick from cayenne. You can reduce or omit it if preferred.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
4. What kind of cheese works best?
   Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can try aged white cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for a twist.
5. Why do I need to chill the dough?
   It helps prevent spreading and gives the crackers their signature flakiness.

Final Thoughts
Southern Cheese Crackers are a true staple in any Southern kitchen—simple, flavorful, and perfect for just about any occasion. With their sharp cheddar punch and buttery crunch, they’ll have everyone reaching for more. Whether you’re baking for a party or just craving a savory snack, these homemade crackers deliver comfort and charm in every bite.

Give them a try and see how fast they disappear! Share your creations and leave a review below—we’d love to see your Southern twist.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 180 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 220mg

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