Zippy Cheddar Crisps
Crispy, cheesy cheddar crisps with a hint of jalapeno and green onion, perfect for snacking or entertaining, offering bold flavors and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Generously grease 2 large baking sheets; set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine cornmeal, butter, sugar, and salt.
- Stir in boiling water, mixing until blended.
- Stir in shredded Cheddar cheese, minced green onions, minced jalapeno peppers, and chopped pimiento.
- Drop level teaspoonfuls of batter, 1 inch apart, onto prepared baking sheets.
- With a spatula, flatten batter into 2-inch rounds.
- Bake for 18 minutes or until golden and slightly brown around edges.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, keep some seeds from the jalapeno peppers. If you don't have pimiento, diced red bell pepper can be a good substitute. Make sure to mix the batter well to incorporate all ingredients. You can also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a unique flavor. Check out other vegetarian recipes for more delightful ideas.
Serving Suggestions
These zippy cheddar crisps are perfect as a snack or appetizer. Serve them warm with salsa or guacamole for dipping. They also pair beautifully with Austin Carter's Favorite Dirt Cups for a fun dessert after your meal. Consider adding a fresh salad or some fresh veggies on the side for a complete spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheddar crisps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zippy Cheddar Crisps contains roughly 906 calories, with 20g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (45% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2361mg per serving (103% 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 these cheddar crisps ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply drop the batter onto the baking sheets and follow the baking instructions. This makes it convenient for parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of cornmeal?
If you don't have cornmeal, you can use masa harina, which will give a similar texture and flavor. Alternatively, finely ground oats can work in a pinch, but they may alter the taste slightly. Adjust the liquid as needed for the best consistency.
Are these crisps gluten-free?
Yes, as the main ingredient is cornmeal, these cheddar crisps are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels of any additional ingredients, like cheese and pimiento, to ensure they are also gluten-free.
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).