Red Hot Cheese Wafers
Crunchy, spicy cheese wafers packed with sharp cheddar, fiery pepper and crunchy peanuts—perfect for bold flavor lovers and party snackers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter.
- Pour the melted butter over the grated cheese and stir in the salt, ground red pepper, and chopped peanuts until well combined.
- Gradually fold in the all‑purpose flour until a smooth dough forms.
- Shape the dough into 1‑inch logs.
- Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.
- Slice the chilled logs into 1/4‑inch thick wafers.
- Arrange the wafers on a cookie sheet and bake in a preheated 475°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, feel free to adjust the amount of ground red pepper to your taste. If you don’t have peanuts, you can substitute with chopped pecans or walnuts. Make sure your butter is melted but not boiling to avoid cooking the cheese prematurely, which can affect the texture of the wafers.
Serving Suggestions
These Red Hot Cheese Wafers make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings and pair wonderfully with a light salad like Four Seasons Salad Mold. Serve them alongside a refreshing drink or as a snack during game day. They can also be a great addition to a cheese platter or enjoyed with dips.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last for about a week. Reheat in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Hot Cheese Wafers contains roughly 225 calories, with 12g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 979mg 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 other cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicier flavor or a milder cheese like Colby. Just be mindful that the texture may vary, and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
How do I ensure my wafers are crispy?
To achieve crispy wafers, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet. Bake them until they are golden brown, and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, which helps maintain their crunch.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, shape it into logs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to a week. Just slice and bake them when you're ready to serve.
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).