“Crispy Cheddar Herb Crackers”

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
• 1/2 cup butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1-2 tablespoons cold water
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme), finely chopped
• Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Add Butter and Cheeses:
   • Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or two forks to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until well combined.
4. Form Dough:
   • Add 1 tablespoon of cold water and mix until the dough begins to come together. If it’s too dry, add another tablespoon of water. The dough should be firm but pliable.
5. Roll and Cut:
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
   • Use a small cookie cutter (fluted or round) to cut out the crackers.
6. Bake:
   • Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Sprinkle the tops with chopped herbs and a little coarse sea salt.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to brown.
7. Cool:
   • Let the crackers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These crackers are great for snacking or serving as an appetizer. Enjoy your homemade cheesy herb crackers! If you need any more recipes or variations, feel free to ask.