Crusty Cheese Rings
Crispy cheese rings with a flaky crust and savory cheese center, perfect as an appetizer or snack for cheese lovers and entertaining guests. Delightfully crunchy and cheesy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour and butter in a bowl; cut butter into flour until smaller than peas.
- Mix in cream and vinegar.
- Stir in cheese; form into a ball.
- Roll dough out on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into rings with a doughnut cutter.
- Place rings and holes on an ungreased baking sheet about 1 inch apart; chill for 30 minutes.
- Brush tops with egg white.
- Sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake at 450° for 10 minutes or until lightly brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, ensure your butter is cold when cutting it into the flour. You can substitute the Swiss cheese with Gruyère for a stronger flavor or use a blend of cheddar and Gouda for a different twist. If you prefer a lighter version, replace the whipping cream with a mixture of milk and yogurt. This recipe is versatile, just like Skillet Date Cookies, and can be adapted to your cheese preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crusty cheese rings warm as a delightful snack or appetizer. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad, such as a Broccoli Carrot Casserole, or a bowl of soup for a comforting meal. These rings can also be enjoyed with dips like marinara or a creamy herb dip for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crusty Cheese Rings contains roughly 504 calories, with 5g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (11% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before rolling and cutting. This helps develop the flavors and makes the dough easier to handle. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling it out.
What can I substitute for the cheeses if I'm lactose intolerant?
For a lactose-free version, use lactose-free cheese options available in stores. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Additionally, consider using plant-based cream alternatives in place of the whipping cream.
How do I know when the cheese rings are done baking?
The cheese rings are done when they are lightly browned on top and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as ovens can vary. You want them to be golden and crispy for the best texture.
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).