Mrs. Sweeney'S Cheese Pennies
Cheesy, crisp cookies with a hint of red pepper flakes, perfect as a savory snack or appetizer for cheese lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cheese and margarine.
- Use a food processor to combine the softened cheese and margarine with the flour and red pepper flakes to form a dough.
- Roll the dough like icebox cookies into a log or shape as desired.
- Slice the dough very thin and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you want a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a unique twist. Make sure to slice the dough uniformly to ensure even baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese pennies as a delightful appetizer or snack alongside a charcuterie board. They pair beautifully with a refreshing dip or wine. For a festive touch, consider serving them with a side of your favorite holiday cookies or as part of a buffet spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled cheese pennies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Sweeney'S Cheese Pennies contains roughly 368 calories, with 18g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. At about 368 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 in advance. After forming it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Just slice and bake when you're ready to enjoy fresh cheese pennies.
What if I don't have a food processor?
If you don't have a food processor, you can mix the ingredients by hand. Soften the cheese and margarine, then use a fork to combine them with the flour and red pepper flakes until a dough forms. It may take a bit more effort, but it'll work just fine.
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture. The baking time may remain the same, but keep an eye on the cheese pennies as they bake.
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).