Cheese crackers (also known as cheese straws, wafers, or biscuits) are a true Southern classic and have long been a favorite snack for Southerners. They are most often present around holidays (especially Christmas), parties, and other special celebrations. Despite having a delicate appearance, cheese crackers are packed with flavor, spice, and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture yet remain crisp… probably from all the butter!

SOUTHERN CHEESE CRACKERS

Makes 48-50 crackers, depending on the size

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 cups (188 g) all-purpose flour
• 7 tablespoons (99 g) unsalted butter, chopped in small cubes and chilled
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated and chilled
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste
• a dash of freshly ground black pepper
• 2-3 tablespoons half-and-half

INSTRUCTIONS

Whisk the flour, salt, paprika, cayenne, and black pepper together in a bowl.

In a food processor, pulse the dry ingredients and butter until the butter is pea sized chunks. Add the cheese and pulse until combined, then add the half-and-half and continue to pulse until the dough begins to clump around the blade.

Gently knead the dough together into two discs—it’s okay if the dough is a little scraggly. Wrap the discs in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Roll the dough to about 1/4” thick—when sprinkling your work surface, use as little flour as possible. I like to use a silicone mat, or you can roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper. Cut into your desired shape and place the crackers on two large baking sheets. Prick the tops with a fork and sprinkle with kosher salt.

Place the baking sheets in the freezer to firm up the dough while preheating the oven to 350°F.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, rotating the pans and switching oven racks halfway through. 30 minutes may seem like a long time, but it makes the crackers stay crisp and they will taste fresher for longer. The tops will begin to shrivel slightly as they crisp up, and the bottoms will turn a deep brownish orange.