Cheese Pecan Wafers

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

Cheese Pecan Wafers are buttery, cheesy treats with a spicy kick from cayenne and crunch from chopped pecans, perfect for entertaining or savory snacking.

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Ingredients

  • 1 stick butter (room temperature)
  • 2 c. grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/2 c. all purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 c. pecans (finely chopped)

Instructions

  1. Using an electric mixer, combine all ingredients to make a soft dough.
  2. Divide the dough into quarters, and roll each piece into a log about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. Wrap each log in waxed paper, and refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using aged cheddar cheese instead of sharp cheddar. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. If the dough feels too soft, chill it for an additional 30 minutes before rolling. Ensure even baking by spacing the wafers appropriately on the baking sheet. Pair these wafers with a light Pineapple Dressing for a delicious contrast.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cheese pecan wafers as a delightful appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips or can be enjoyed alongside a charcuterie board. For an elegant touch, consider serving them with a sweet fruit preserve or a small bowl of Black Cherry Sparkle for dipping.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cheese pecan wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the logs before slicing and baking. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cheese Pecan Wafers contains roughly 1203 calories, with 39g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 110g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (111% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and calcium (74% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2536mg per serving (110% of the Daily Value).

1203 kcal 60% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 39.2g 78% DV
Total Fat 110.3g 100% DV
Carbs 33g 12% DV
Fiber 16.3g 58% DV
Sugar 7.1g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2536.2mg 100% DV
Potassium 1030.2mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 120.7mg 40% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 995mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 22.6mg 25% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 4% DV
Calcium 958mg 74% DV
Iron 4.7mg 26% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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?

Absolutely! The dough can be prepared up to two days in advance. Simply roll it into logs, wrap it in wax paper, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just slice and bake as instructed. This makes them an excellent choice for pre-party preparation.

What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?

If your dough is crumbly, it might need a little more moisture. Try adding a teaspoon of cold water or milk to the mixture, and then mix again until it holds together. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and flaky.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works as a 1:1 replacement. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or similar to help mimic the texture of regular flour. This will allow you to enjoy these savory treats in gluten-free form.

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).

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