Cheese Smackles
Cheese Smackles are crispy, cheesy snacks with a hint of spice, perfect for parties or snacking, appealing to cheese lovers and those who enjoy savory treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the margarine and mix it with the grated cheese.
- Sift red pepper, salt, and flour together.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the margarine and cheese mixture.
- Add crushed Rice Krispies and mix gently.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet.
- Press each ball flat with a fork.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using aged sharp Cheddar cheese instead of regular sharp Cheddar. If you prefer a milder spice, reduce the red pepper to 1/4 tsp. or substitute with paprika. Make sure to crush the Rice Krispies finely for better mixing. If you want a gluten-free option, use almond flour in place of plain flour.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese Smackles are a delightful snack on their own, but they also pair beautifully with Green Beans Caesar(Delicious!) for a more substantial meal. Serve them alongside dips like ranch or guacamole for added flavor. They make a great appetizer for parties and can be enjoyed with drinks or as part of a snack platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cheese Smackles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Smackles contains roughly 1104 calories, with 27g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% 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?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor. Just be mindful that different cheeses may alter the texture and melting properties of the Cheese Smackles.
What can I do if the mixture is too dry?
If your mixture seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon of softened margarine or a splash of milk to help bind it together. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a consistency that allows you to shape the balls easily.
How do I ensure they stay crispy?
To maintain the crispiness of Cheese Smackles, store them in an airtight container and avoid stacking them too tightly. Reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave will help keep their texture crunchy.
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).