Southern Cheese Crackers

Southern Cheese Crackers are a classic, homemade savory snack with rich cheddar flavor, buttery texture, and just the right touch of spice. Finished with a nutty crunch from chopped pecans, these crisp, flavorful crackers are perfect for parties, holiday spreads, or simply as a satisfying nibble any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Southern-style cheese crackers are a delightful alternative to store-bought snacks. The combination of sharp cheddar and buttery dough delivers a deep, savory taste, while hints of cayenne and garlic add a subtle kick. Chopped pecans contribute a gentle crunch and a touch of Southern flair. Easy to prepare ahead and incredibly versatile, they pair wonderfully with soups, salads, cocktails, or cheese boards.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 tablespoons salted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Directions

1. Mix the Cheese and Butter
   In a mixing bowl, beat together the shredded cheddar cheese and softened butter for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
2. Season the Dough
   Add kosher salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder to the mixture. Blend well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
3. Add Flour and Pecans
   Gradually mix in the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a dough forms.
   Fold in the finely chopped pecans.
   If the dough is too dry or crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons of ice water to bring it together.
4. Shape and Chill
   Divide the dough in half and form each half into a log approximately 1 inch in diameter.
   Wrap tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap and twist the ends to seal.
   Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Slice and Bake
   Unwrap the dough and slice into 1/8-inch rounds.
   Arrange on the prepared baking sheet about 1/4 inch apart.
   Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve
   Transfer the crackers to a cooling rack to cool completely.
   Serve at room temperature or store for later.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 40–60 crackers (depending on thickness)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 80 kcal per cracker

Variations

• Spice Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper for extra heat.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in dried rosemary or thyme for an herby twist.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit pecans or replace with sunflower seeds for texture without nuts.
• Cheese Swap: Try extra-sharp cheddar, white cheddar, or a blend with Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
• Mini Sandwiches: Use two crackers with a dab of pimento cheese or herbed cream cheese for a delicious bite-sized appetizer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough logs for up to 2 months. Thaw slightly, slice, and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Not required, but crackers can be warmed in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh their crispness.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese is recommended for better texture and flavor, as pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling helps firm the dough, making it easier to slice and bake evenly.

Can I roll out the dough and use cookie cutters?

Yes, roll to about 1/8-inch thickness and use small cutters for shaped crackers.

Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, just increase the salt slightly to compensate for flavor.

Southern Cheese Crackers

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 40–60 crackers
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Southern Cheese Crackers are buttery, sharp, and crisp with a subtle kick of cayenne and a nutty crunch from pecans. A savory homemade snack that’s perfect for entertaining, gifting, or pairing with soups and salads. Keyword: Southern Cheese Crackers

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Ingredients

• 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 8 tablespoons salted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans

 

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

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Instructions

• Mix the Cheese and Butter:
  In a mixing bowl, beat the shredded cheese and softened butter until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

• Season the Dough:
  Add kosher salt, cayenne, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.

• Add Flour:
  Gradually mix in the flour, 1/2 cup at a time.
  If the dough is dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of ice water.

• Shape and Chill:
  Divide the dough into two logs, about 1 inch thick.
  Wrap in parchment or plastic wrap. Chill for at least 30 minutes.

• Prepare for Baking:
  Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

 

• Slice and Bake:
  Slice logs into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
  Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing 1/4 inch apart.
  Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Cool on a rack.

Notes

• Sprinkle with sea salt or smoked paprika before baking for an extra burst of flavor.

• Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week.

 

• Perfect for charcuterie boards, lunchboxes, or savory snack time.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snack, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American