Savory Southern Pecan Cheese Crackers Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible charm of homemade Southern Cheese Pecan Crackers – a savory delight that marries the richness of sharp cheddar with the crunch of pecans. These crackers are not just any ordinary snack; they embody the heart and soul of Southern hospitality in each buttery, flaky bite. Picture yourself at a lively gathering, surrounded by loved ones, as you reach for these delectable morsels that vanish faster than you can imagine.

Crafted with love and a touch of Southern flair, these cheese pecan crackers are more than just a recipe; they are a tradition in the making. As the warm aroma of real cheddar and butter fills your kitchen, you can’t help but feel a sense of togetherness and joy. Whether it’s a movie night with friends or a casual potluck with neighbors, these crackers are sure to steal the show and leave everyone craving for more.

Embrace the simplicity and warmth of Southern cuisine with these homemade crackers that have stood the test of time. With a nod to tradition and a sprinkle of pecans for that extra crunch, these Southern Cheese Pecan Crackers are a true embodiment of comfort and flavor. So, gather your loved ones, whip up a batch of these delightful treats, and let the magic of Southern hospitality unfold with each delicious bite.

Quick Benefits

• Robust Flavor: Freshly shredded sharp cheddar gives a rich, bold taste that shines through in every bite.
• Crisp Texture: Slicing the dough thinly and baking until golden brown results in a tender, flaky texture that stays crisp even after cooling.
• Versatile: Easily customizable by swapping cheddar with other cheeses or omitting pecans for a nut-free version, accommodating various preferences and dietary needs.
• Make-ahead: Conveniently freeze unbaked dough logs for up to a month, allowing for quick slicing and baking when needed.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Southern Pecan Cheese Crackers Recipe Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor Combination: A perfect balance of sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and warm spices like cayenne and black pepper creates a savory and addictive flavor profile.
• Homemade Goodness: These crackers are far superior to store-bought versions, delivering buttery flakiness and a serious cheddar punch in every bite.
• Easy and Quick: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or snack cravings.
• Versatile Options: Customize the recipe by swapping cheddar for pepper jack or smoked gouda, adjusting spice levels, or omitting pecans for a nut-free option.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Serve these crackers alongside a cheese board, charcuterie platter, or soups for a crunchy twist that will impress your guests.
• Southern Tradition: Rooted in Southern hospitality, these crackers bring a touch of tradition and warmth to any occasion, making them a staple at gatherings for generations.
• Make Ahead: Freeze unbaked dough logs for up to three months, allowing you to slice and bake fresh crackers whenever needed, with just a slight increase in baking time.

Ingredients for Savory Southern Pecan Cheese Crackers Recipe

Base

• 115 g salted butter, softened
• 200 g sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 0.125 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Nuts

• 60 g pecans, finely chopped

Dry ingredients

• 190 g all-purpose flour

Pro Tips for Savory Southern Pecan Cheese Crackers Recipe

For the best flavor and texture, shred your cheddar cheese freshly. This will give your crackers a more robust cheddar punch and a smoother melt during baking. Consider increasing the kosher salt slightly to maintain a savory balance in the crackers that complements the sharpness of the cheddar.

If you prefer a nut-free version or don’t have pecans on hand, feel free to omit them or substitute with other nuts like walnuts. This will give you a classic cracker taste without compromising on the buttery flakiness. Remember to slice the dough thinly before baking and allow the crackers to cool completely after baking for maximum crispness.

To keep your crackers crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If your kitchen is humid, add a food-safe silica packet or a slice of bread to absorb excess moisture. You can also freeze unbaked dough logs for up to one month, allowing you to slice and bake straight from the freezer with just a slightly longer oven time. Experiment with different cheese options like spicy pepper jack or smoked gouda for a unique twist on the classic Southern recipe.

How to Make Savory Southern Pecan Cheese Crackers Recipe

Step 1: Cream Cheese and Butter

In a large bowl, mix shredded cheddar cheese and softened butter. Beat with a hand mixer for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Incorporate Seasonings

Combine kosher salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder, blending well for even seasoning.

Step 3: Achieve the Dough

Add the all-purpose flour in three parts, mixing thoroughly after each addition until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is dry, add 15–30 ml of ice-cold water as necessary.

Step 4: Form and Chill Logs

Divide dough in half and shape each portion into a 2.5 cm diameter log. Wrap tightly in parchment or plastic wrap, twisting ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Preheat the oven to 190°C and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6: Slice and Arrange

Slice the chilled dough into 3 mm-thick rounds and place them 0.5 cm apart on the baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake crackers for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool completely before serving or storing.

Storage Tips

To keep your Southern Cheese Pecan Crackers fresh and crisp, store them in an airtight tin or glass jar at room temperature. If your kitchen tends to be humid, consider adding a food-safe silica packet or a slice of bread to the container to help absorb moisture and maintain the crackers’ texture. By storing them properly, you can enjoy these delicious homemade crackers for up to a week.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze unbaked dough logs for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy more crackers, simply slice the frozen dough and bake straight from the freezer, adding just a minute or two to the oven time. This convenient method allows you to have freshly baked Southern Cheese Pecan Crackers whenever you desire, with minimal effort required.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a variation in cheese flavor, you can swap the sharp cheddar with spicy pepper jack or robust smoked gouda to give the crackers a different taste profile. These cheeses will add their unique flavors while still providing a delicious cheesy punch to the crackers.

If you prefer a nut-free version of these crackers, you can omit the pecans entirely or substitute them with chopped walnuts for a similar nutty texture. Leaving out the nuts will still result in flavorful and crunchy crackers that pair well with various dishes or dips.

To enhance the spiciness of the crackers, consider adding a bit more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot smoked paprika to the dough before shaping. This adjustment will give the crackers an extra kick of heat, perfect for those who enjoy a spicier snack.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, arrange these Southern Cheese Pecan Crackers on a wooden cutting board alongside a variety of cheeses, cured meats, olives, and honey. The combination of the flaky, cheesy crackers with the savory and sweet elements of the charcuterie platter will surely impress your guests at any gathering. Consider adding a dollop of fig jam or spicy mustard for an extra burst of flavor.

To elevate your soup game, serve these homemade crackers with a piping hot bowl of creamy tomato soup. The contrast between the rich, velvety soup and the crispy, cheesy crackers will make for a comforting and satisfying meal. You can also crumble these crackers on top of the soup for added texture and flavor. It’s a simple yet gourmet touch that will make your soup nights feel extra special.

FAQs for Savory Southern Pecan Cheese Crackers Recipe

Can I use pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it freshly?

Freshly shredded sharp cheddar gives the most robust flavor and melts smoothly, ensuring a tender, flaky texture.

Can I adjust the salt level in the recipe?

Yes, but consider increasing the kosher salt slightly to maintain the savory balance.

Can I omit the pecans or substitute them with another type of nut?

Pecans add nuttiness, but you can omit them or substitute with walnuts or leave nuts out for a classic cracker.

How should I store the crackers to keep them crisp?

After cooling, store in an airtight container at room temperature; they remain crisp for up to a week.

Conclusion

As you venture into making these delightful Southern Cheese Pecan Crackers, remember that they hold a nostalgic charm that brings people together. With each crispy, cheesy bite, you are savoring a piece of Southern tradition and hospitality. These crackers are not just a snack; they are a symbol of warmth, laughter, and togetherness that accompany any gathering.

So, whether you’re planning a cozy movie night in or hosting a lively game day party, these Southern Cheese Pecan Crackers are sure to be a hit. Share them with friends and family, and watch as they disappear before your eyes, leaving behind smiles and memories that will last a lifetime. Embrace the simplicity and heartwarming flavors of these crackers, and let them become a beloved tradition in your home. Enjoy baking and indulging in these Southern Cheese Pecan Crackers, and let them bring a touch of Southern hospitality to your table.