University Club Cheese Puffs
Creamy cheese puffs with a savory onion flavor, perfect as a snack or appetizer on crunchy Ritz crackers, offering a rich and cheesy bite for gatherings or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except baking powder and crackers, with an electric mixer.
- Add baking powder and mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Mound the cheese mixture smoothly on crackers.
- Bake at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes, until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, whip the cream cheese until fluffy before mixing in the other ingredients. You can substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese for a tangier flavor, or use finely chopped chives instead of grated onion for a milder taste. If you're short on time, consider using store-bought cheese spread instead of making your own mixture. These cheese puffs are great for parties or as a snack, similar to Rice Krispie Morsels.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese puffs warm as an appetizer at gatherings or alongside a refreshing Banana-Lemon Shake for a delightful pairing. They also make an excellent addition to a charcuterie board, complementing cured meats and olives. For a vegetarian option, serve with a side of Claudia'S Onion Pie for a well-rounded spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain their crispy texture, making them just as delightful as when freshly baked.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of University Club Cheese Puffs contains roughly 808 calories, with 39g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), and iron (64% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1195mg per serving (52% 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 cheese mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, mound the mixture onto the crackers and bake as directed. This saves time and ensures you have a delicious appetizer ready to go!
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you're looking for an alternative to Ritz crackers, try using other buttery crackers like Town House or even whole-grain options for a healthier twist. You could also use toasted baguette slices for a different texture and flavor, making these cheese puffs versatile for any occasion.
How can I make these cheese puffs spicier?
To add some heat to your cheese puffs, consider mixing in a few dashes of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños into the cheese mixture. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a smoky kick. Adjust the spice level to your liking for a fun twist!
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).