There’s nothing quite like the irresistible crunch of homemade Southern Cheese Crackers. These buttery, cheesy bites are loaded with sharp cheddar, have just the right amount of spice, and practically melt in your mouth. Whether I’m setting them out for a holiday gathering, a family game night, or just making a batch to snack on throughout the week, they always disappear quickly.
What I love most is how simple they are to make with just a handful of ingredients — yet they taste so much better than anything you could buy in a store. They’re perfect on their own or served alongside dips, soups, or salads.
Here’s how I make these crispy, savory cheese crackers that are impossible to stop munching on.
Why You’ll Love These Southern Cheese Crackers
- Buttery, cheesy, and perfectly crisp
- Made with simple pantry staples
- Perfect for parties, potlucks, or gifting in a pretty tin
- Customize with your favorite spices or herbs
- A homemade snack that beats store-bought every time
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
How I Make Southern Cheese Crackers
1. Preheat and Prep
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the grated cheddar cheese, softened butter, flour, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). I mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels dry, I add a tablespoon of cold water to help it come together.
3. Shape and Cut
I roll the dough out on a floured surface until it’s about ¼-inch thick. Then, I use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into small squares or rounds. For that classic Southern look, I prick each cracker in the center with a fork.
4. Bake
I place the crackers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until they’re golden and crisp around the edges.
5. Cool and Serve
I let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing in an airtight container.
My Favorite Tips for Success
- Grate your cheese fresh for the best texture and flavor — pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt the same way.
- Adjust the spice by adding more cayenne or a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
- Don’t overwork the dough, or the crackers can become tough.
- Store them in an airtight container — they’ll stay crisp for up to a week (if they last that long!).
- Double the recipe for gatherings — trust me, they’ll vanish quickly.
What to Serve with Southern Cheese Crackers
- With a bowl of tomato soup or creamy potato soup
- Alongside pimento cheese or creamy dips
- On a charcuterie board with meats and olives
- Paired with sweet pepper jelly for a Southern twist
- With iced tea or a chilled glass of white wine
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes! Wrap the dough tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking.
Q: Can I use other cheeses?
A: Absolutely! Sharp white cheddar, Parmesan, or even pepper jack work great.
Q: How do I keep them crisp?
A: Store in an airtight container with a small packet of silica gel or a few grains of uncooked rice to absorb moisture.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Yes, just use a good all-purpose gluten-free flour blend.
A Cheesy, Southern Classic You’ll Make Again and Again
These Southern Cheese Crackers are one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in snack form. They’re cheesy, crispy, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting. Whether you’re serving them at a party, gifting them during the holidays, or just making a batch for yourself, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen too.
If you try them, let me know how they turn out! Add your own twist with herbs or spices, and enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite.
Southern Cheese Crackers: A Crispy, Cheesy Snack You Can’t Resist
Ingredients
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and softened butter until smooth.
- Add the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the bowl, and mix until incorporated.
- Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or knife.
- Place the cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before serving.
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