Cheddar Crisps *(From Gourmet Magazine)
Cheddar Crisps are savory, cheesy snacks with a crispy texture, perfect for parties, appetizers, or when craving a salty, cheesy treat that pairs well with drinks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and Cheddar until light and fluffy.
- Continue beating and add flour a little at a time until combined.
- Stir in a dash of salt and cayenne pepper.
- Stir in Rice Krispies.
- Form into balls by heaping teaspoonfuls and place 2 inches apart on buttered baking sheets.
- Flatten each with the back of a floured fork.
- Bake in the middle of a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming with the cheese. If you want a bit more heat, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper beyond 1/2 teaspoon. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with another cheese like Gruyère for a different flavor profile. Mixing in some herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can also add a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheddar crisps make a fantastic standalone snack or appetizer, especially when paired with a spicy dipping sauce. They also complement soups well, such as a creamy tomato bisque or loaded potato soup. For a more substantial offering, serve them alongside a salad or as part of a cheese platter with fruits and nuts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cheddar crisps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep them crispy, avoid refrigerating them. If you need to reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crunchiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Crisps *(From Gourmet Magazine) contains roughly 1115 calories, with 47g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (177% of the Daily Value), protein (93% of the Daily Value), and calcium (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2552mg per serving (111% of the Daily Value).
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 in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent drying out. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before forming the balls and baking.
What can I substitute for Rice Krispies?
If you don't have Rice Krispies on hand, you can use other crisped rice cereals or even crushed cornflakes as a substitute. This will still provide the desired texture and crunch, though the flavor may vary slightly.
How can I make these crisps more nutritious?
To make these Cheddar crisps more nutritious, consider adding ground flaxseed or chia seeds to the dough for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. You could also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier twist.
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).