Description
A delightful and crunchy snack that combines the sharpness of cheddar cheese with the fun texture of Rice Krispies, perfect for parties or a savory treat any time of the day.
Ingredients:
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup Rice Krispies cereal
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until well blended. Add the all-purpose flour, paprika (if using), and salt, stirring until a dough forms.
Incorporate the Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Shape the Crackers: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
Bake the Crackers: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these crunchy, cheesy delights as a snack or appetizer!
Nutritional Information:
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Baking Time: 12-15 minutes | Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 150 kcal per serving |
Servings: 24 crackers
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready. Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is the first critical step for even baking. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Create the Cheese Base: In your large bowl, thoroughly mix the softened butter and shredded sharp cheddar until it forms a cohesive, pasty mixture. This is the flavor foundation.
3. Form the Dough: Add the flour, salt, and optional paprika to the cheese mixture. Stir until just combined and a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the crackers tender.
4. Add the Crunch: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Use a spatula and a light hand to distribute them without crushing the cereal, preserving the airy texture that will create pockets of crunch.
5. Shape with Care: Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on your baking sheet, leaving room for slight spreading. Flatten each ball to about 1/4-inch thickness with your palm or the bottom of a glass.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes. Watch for golden-brown edges, which indicate doneness. The centers may still look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.
7. The Crucial Cool Down: Let crackers cool on the sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for maximum crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile crackers are fantastic on their own but can be elevated. Serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. For a party platter, pair them with cured meats, olives, and a tangy chutney or pepper jelly. They also make a great base for a canapé; top with a slice of smoked sausage or a dollop of herbed cream cheese.
How-to Summary
Mix softened butter and cheddar cheese. Blend in flour and seasonings to form a dough. Gently fold in Rice Krispies. Shape into small balls, flatten, and bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes until golden. Cool completely to crisp up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-shredded cheese from a bag? For best texture and melt, we recommend shredding a block of cheese yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the dough’s consistency.
My crackers spread too much. What happened? This usually means your butter was too soft or melted. Ensure your butter is softened but still cool to the touch. Chilling the shaped dough for 15 minutes before baking can also help.
Can I make these gluten-free? Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure your Rice Krispies cereal is a gluten-free variety.
How should I store leftovers? Store cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, they freeze well for up to 2 months.
Can I add other flavors? Absolutely! Try adding 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cayenne for heat. Freshly chopped herbs like chives or rosemary also work wonderfully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Melted Butter: This will cause excessive spreading and a greasy texture. Butter should be softened but not liquid.
- Overmixing the Dough: Once the flour is incorporated, stop mixing. Overworking develops gluten, leading to tough crackers.
- Crushing the Cereal: Fold gently to keep the Rice Krispies whole for optimal crunch and texture.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: The crackers need time to firm up. Eating them warm will result in a soft, crumbly texture instead of a satisfying snap.
Conclusion
These Rice Krispie Cheddar Crackers are a brilliantly simple yet impressive homemade snack. The combination of sharp, savory cheese and the iconic crispy cereal creates a texture and flavor that far surpasses store-bought options. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can reliably produce a crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion. Their make-ahead convenience and versatile flavor profile make them a staple recipe worth mastering.