Cheese Tasters
Cheese Tasters are savory bite-sized cookies with sharp Cheddar and a hint of red pepper, perfect for snacking or entertaining cheese lovers seeking a crunchy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter until smooth; add flour, shredded Cheddar cheese, salt, and ground red pepper, mixing until well blended.
- Stir in the crisp rice cereal until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them about 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets.
- Flatten each ball with a fork dipped in flour.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 20 to 22 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Allow to cool completely on wire racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or thyme to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different taste. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing, and if you prefer a crunchier texture, bake for the full 22 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheese Tasters make for a delightful snack or appetizer. Serve them alongside a dip, such as ranch or a spicy salsa, for an added flavor dimension. They pair beautifully with Jackie'S Cool Summer Salad for a refreshing meal or as a side with a hearty soup. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cheese Tasters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Tasters contains roughly 508 calories, with 19g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (213% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (119% of the Daily Value), and iron (113% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2468mg per serving (107% 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 the star ingredient, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Gouda, Gruyère, or even a vegan cheese alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
What if I don't have crisp rice cereal?
If you don't have crisp rice cereal on hand, you can substitute it with crushed cornflakes or even finely chopped nuts for added crunch. Just adjust the quantity to maintain the overall texture of the dough.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Shape it into balls and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it convenient for last-minute gatherings or snack cravings.
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).