Southern Cheese Pecan Crackers (Print Version)

Flaky Southern-style cheese crackers with pecans, cheddar, butter, and a touch of cayenne for extra flavor.

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 200 g sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
02 - 115 g salted butter, softened

→ Seasonings

03 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
05 - 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
06 - 0.125 teaspoon garlic powder

→ Nuts

07 - 60 g pecans, finely chopped

→ Dry ingredients

08 - 190 g all-purpose flour

# Instructions:

01 - Combine the shredded cheddar cheese and softened butter in a large bowl. Beat with a hand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.
02 - Add kosher salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder. Blend thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
03 - Gradually add the all-purpose flour in three portions, mixing well after each addition, until a cohesive dough forms. If the dough is dry, incorporate 15–30 ml ice-cold water as needed.
04 - Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log approximately 2.5 cm in diameter. Wrap tightly in parchment or plastic wrap, twisting the ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
05 - Preheat the oven to 190°C. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
06 - Cut the chilled dough into 3 mm-thick rounds. Position rounds 0.5 cm apart on prepared baking sheets.
07 - Bake crackers for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Transfer to a cooling rack and allow to cool completely before serving or storing.

# Notes:

01 - For enhanced flavor, dust cracker tops with sea salt or smoked paprika prior to baking.
02 - Store cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.