Cheese Bennies
Cheese Bennies are savory, cheesy treats with a hint of red pepper, perfect for snacking or serving at parties, offering a rich, buttery flavor with a crispy bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together grated cheese, butter or margarine, red pepper, and salt.
- Add flour and sesame seed to the mixture.
- Make into a roll and wrap in wax paper; refrigerate.
- Slice the chilled roll and bake in a 350°F oven until slightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheese. If you want extra flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or chives to the cheese mixture. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. When rolling the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure consistent baking. If you're short on time, you can skip refrigerating the roll, but chilling helps with slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheese Bennies as a delightful appetizer or snack at parties, alongside a fresh salad or vegetable platter. They pair beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine or a light beer. For a complete meal, consider including them with dishes like Lasagna Pierogi Casserole for a comforting spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp. You can also microwave them for about 30 seconds, but they may lose some texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Bennies contains roughly 283 calories, with 9g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (161% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 692mg per serving (30% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheese gives a nice kick, you can substitute with a milder cheese or even a blend of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well.
How can I make these spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add more red pepper or incorporate other spices like cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños into the mixture. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste preference.
Can I freeze Cheese Bennies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, slice the roll while still frozen and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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).