Cheese Cracks
Cheese Cracks are savory, crunchy cookies with sharp cheddar and a hint of red pepper, perfect for snacking or serving at parties with a cheesy, spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shredded sharp Cheddar cheese and softened margarine in a mixer bowl until creamy.
- Add flour and mix well.
- Stir in crisp rice cereal and red pepper.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Place the balls on a nonstick baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, try substituting pepper jack cheese for the sharp Cheddar. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Make sure your margarine is well softened for easy mixing. You can also add herbs like oregano or basil for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese cracks make a great appetizer or snack on their own, but they pair beautifully with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup, such as Cold Red Raspberry Soup, for a light meal. Consider serving them alongside a dip like guacamole for added flavor during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese cracks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Cracks contains roughly 1277 calories, with 35g protein, 204g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (256% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (195% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1151mg per serving (50% 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 Cheddar is recommended for its flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses. Each will give a unique taste to your cheese cracks.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and shape the balls in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them perfect for parties or gatherings, allowing you to bake them fresh on the day of serving.
Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these cheese cracks are vegetarian-friendly since they contain no meat. Just ensure that the margarine used is also vegetarian, as some brands may contain animal-derived ingredients.
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).