How to Create the Perfect Southern Cheese Crackers

Proper Dough Temperature

Maintaining cold ingredients throughout preparation ensures flaky layers rather than tough crackers.

Even Rolling

Rolling the dough to uniform thickness guarantees consistent baking and perfect crispness.

Strategic Pricking

Properly pricking the dough prevents air bubbles while creating the classic cracker appearance.

Perfect Timing

Achieving the golden edge with a slightly softer center creates the ideal texture balance.

Baking Tips

For the sharpest flavor, use extra-sharp or aged cheddar cheese and grate it yourself instead of using pre-shredded.

Keep all ingredients cold until ready to use for the flakiest texture.

If the dough becomes too soft while working with it, return it to the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up.

For spicier crackers, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Parmesan for unique flavor variations.

Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the dough for an herbal twist.

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the dough.

These crackers make wonderful holiday gifts when packaged in decorative tins or jars with ribbon.

The dough can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.

Southern Cheese Crackers Snack

Name: Southern Cheese Crackers Snack
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Yield: About 60 crackers
Cuisine: Southern, American
Ingredients: 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for topping; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/8 teaspoon onion powder; 2-3 tablespoons ice water; 1 tablespoon whole milk for brushing (optional); Coarse sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

These homemade Southern Cheese Crackers are a nostalgic treat with a modern twist. Buttery, flaky crackers packed with sharp cheddar flavor and a hint of heat from cayenne pepper create an irresistible snack that's perfect for gatherings, gift baskets, or simply enjoying with a cold beverage. The iconic savory bite brings back memories of southern hospitality while being surprisingly simple to make from scratch. Whether served alongside soups, displayed on cheese boards, or packaged as thoughtful homemade gifts, these cheese crackers deliver that satisfying crunch and rich flavor that store-bought versions can never quite match.

Prep Time

25 Minutes

Cook Time

15 Minutes

Total Time

1H40 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for topping

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/8 teaspoon onion powder

2-3 tablespoons ice water

1 tablespoon whole milk for brushing (optional)

Coarse sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

In a food processor, combine the grated cheddar cheese, flour, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pulse until well mixed.

Add the cold cubed butter to the food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

With the processor running, slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. You may not need all the water.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and form into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 3 days).

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to slightly soften.

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. For more even crackers, roll between two sheets of parchment paper.

Using a sharp knife or pastry wheel, cut the dough into 1-inch squares. Alternatively, use small cookie cutters for fun shapes.

Transfer the crackers to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1/2 inch between each cracker.

Use a fork to prick each cracker a few times to prevent puffing.

If desired, brush the tops lightly with milk and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the crackers are crisp.

Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheets. They will crisp up further as they cool.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.

Southern Cheese Crackers Snack

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

How to Create the Perfect Southern Cheese Crackers

Southern Cheese Crackers Snack

Ingredients

Instructions