Description
Cheesy Pecan Delights bring Southern comfort to your table with a perfect blend of sharp cheddar and toasted pecans. Crisp, golden crackers offer a delightful crunch that will make you crave more of this irresistible appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Dairy:
- 2 cups (480 ml) freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 tablespoons (113 grams) salted butter, softened
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (60 grams) finely chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Cream together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer, whipping until the mixture becomes light and airy, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
- Introduce a blend of seasonings including kosher salt, cayenne pepper, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder into the creamy mixture, stirring until evenly distributed.
- Gradually fold in all-purpose flour, adding at a time and gently mixing to create a smooth, cohesive dough that holds together without becoming tough.
- Divide the seasoned dough into two equal portions and carefully roll each portion into uniform logs measuring approximately 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) in diameter.
- Wrap each log tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap, securing the ends by twisting to create a compact shape. Refrigerate the logs for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chilled dough logs and slice them into thin rounds approximately 1/8 inch (3 millimeters) thick using a sharp knife.
- Arrange the sliced rounds on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1/4 inch (6 millimeters) apart to ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the edges turn a delicate golden brown and the centers appear set.
- Transfer the baked Cheesy Pecan Delights to a wire cooling rack and allow them to cool completely, which will help them achieve a crisp and delicate texture.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is crucial for developing a rich, buttery flavor and ensuring the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Use room temperature cheese and butter for a smoother, more evenly mixed base that blends seamlessly.
- Slice the logs with a sharp knife to create uniform, thin wafers that bake evenly and look professionally made.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spice level, making these savory cookies adaptable to different taste preferences.
- Parchment paper is essential for preventing sticking and achieving a perfectly golden bottom without burning.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture and keep them fresh for several days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 115 kcal
- Sugar: 0.1 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg