Description

Craving a savory, buttery snack with a delightful crunch? These homemade Southern Cheese Crackers are a Southern classic you’ll want to make again and again. Packed with sharp cheddar cheese and just the right touch of spice, they’re perfect for entertaining, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cold glass of sweet tea. Whether you call them cheese straws, crackers, or bites—these are melt-in-your-mouth good.

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Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a mild kick)
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp cold water (as needed)

Optional Add-ins:

½ tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese for extra depth
½ tsp cracked black pepper for a bolder finish

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat softened butter until smooth.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter-cheese mixture, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
Add cold water, 1 teaspoon at a time, just until the dough holds together.
Form into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30–45 minutes.

Step 2: Roll Out & Cut the Crackers

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
Cut into 1-inch squares using a knife, pizza cutter, or cookie cutter for fun shapes.
Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
Use a fork to prick the center of each cracker to prevent puffing.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden & Crisp

Bake in preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until edges are golden and the crackers are crisp.
Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
The crackers will crisp up further as they cool.

Step 4: Serve or Store

Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Serve in a bowl at gatherings, pack into lunchboxes, or tie up in bags for a homemade gift

Notes

Use Sharp Cheddar – The sharper the cheese, the more flavor in your crackers.
Chill the Dough – Helps keep the crackers crisp and prevents spreading.
Shred Fresh Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect texture.
Add Spices to Taste – Adjust cayenne or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for variety.
Roll Evenly – Keep the dough thickness consistent to ensure even baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Cuisine: Southern American