Handwritten recipe for Cheese Pastry Crackers
by: salvagedrecipes

Cheddar Pastry Crackers

Cheese Pastry Crackers
Cheese Pastry Crackers are a savory, flaky treat that combine the richness of shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese with the crisp, buttery layers of pastry dough. Ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or as a snack, these bite-sized crackers bake up golden and delicately browned, delivering a satisfying crunch and a sharp cheesy flavor in every bite. The optional touch of paprika adds a hint of smoky warmth and vibrant color, enhancing both the taste and presentation. These crackers harken back to the mid-20th century era of cocktail hour hors d'oeuvres and remain an elegant finger food that’s easy to make from scratch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 2 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 54 crackers
Calories 30 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup cheddar (fine shredded, or Swiss cheese)
  • 2 cups pastry mix
  • 6 tbsp cold water (approximate, for forming dough)
  • paprika (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make Pastry Dough

  • Use a fork to toss shredded cheese with the pastry mix.
  • Add cold water (about 6 tbsp) and mix until a dough forms.

Step 2: Roll and Cut Dough

  • Roll out dough thin (⅛ inch thick).
  • Cut into 1½-inch shapes using a tiny round cutter or improvise with jar tops or salt shaker rims.
  • Alternatively, cut with a knife into squares, triangles, or strips.

Step 3: Add Topping

  • Sprinkle crackers with a little paprika, if desired.

Step 4: Bake

  • Place crackers on a baking sheet.
  • Bake in a preheated 450°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until delicately browned.

Tips

  • Use extra-sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne, paprika, or smoked paprika to the dough for heat.
  • Roll very thin (⅛ inch or less) for crispier crackers.
  • Chill the dough 10 minutes before rolling if it feels too soft.
  • Cut with small cookie cutters for decorative shapes.
  • Sprinkle coarse salt or sesame seeds on top before baking.
  • Swap cheddar for Swiss or a blend of cheeses.
  • For ultra-crisp crackers, bake 1 to 2 minutes longer, watching closely.
  • Store fully cooled crackers in an airtight tin to preserve crispness.

Nutrition

Calories: 30kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 49mgPotassium: 7mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 0.02gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword cheese crackers, finger food, homemade crackers, party snack, retro appetizer, savory baking, vintage recipe
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