Cheddar Cheese Wafers
Crispy, cheesy cheddar wafers with a hint of mustard and cayenne offer a savory snack perfect for parties, tea, or as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shredded cheddar cheese, flour, softened butter, salt, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper in a bowl and knead into a log shape.
- Wrap the log and chill in the refrigerator until firm, about 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the chilled log into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Place slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until brown and really set.
- Check the bottoms to ensure they are evenly baked and crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a bit more cayenne pepper or using smoked Cheddar cheese for a distinct flavor. If you’re out of dry mustard, you can substitute with Dijon mustard, using slightly less to avoid excess moisture. Ensure your butter is softened for easy mixing; if it's too hard, microwave it for a few seconds but avoid melting it. Chill the log thoroughly for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheddar Cheese Wafers make a fantastic appetizer or snack and pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad. Serve them alongside a dip, like a creamy ranch or a spicy salsa, for added flavor. They also complement a charcuterie board perfectly, enhancing a variety of cheeses and meats. For a sweet finish, consider serving them with slices of the Man-On-The-Moon Apple Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Cheese Wafers contains roughly 132 calories, with 6g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to a day in advance. Shape it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply slice and bake as directed. This is a great way to have freshly baked wafers on hand for unexpected guests.
What can I use instead of sharp Cheddar cheese?
If sharp Cheddar cheese is unavailable, you can use medium or mild Cheddar for a less intense flavor. Alternatively, a blend of Cheddar and Gruyère or Pepper Jack can add a unique twist, enhancing both flavor and complexity in your wafers.
How can I make these wafers gluten-free?
To make these wafers gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for binding. The texture may slightly vary, but the flavor will remain delicious, making it a great option for those following gluten-free diets.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).