Ruby’s Cheese Tidbits: A Savory Snack Perfect for Every Occasion
These delightful Ruby’s Cheese Tidbits are an absolute favorite, passed down through my Aunt Ruby’s cherished collection of recipes. They are the perfect combination of rich cheese flavor and the satisfying crunch of a crispy snack. With a delectable texture and a hint of cayenne pepper, these cheese wafers are irresistible at any gathering, especially for brunch or when hosting a large group. They’re quick to prepare and bake, and the addition of Rice Krispies gives them a unique twist, adding just the right amount of crunch.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 cup (softened) |
| Salt | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Extra-sharp cheddar cheese (grated) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Plain flour | 2 cups |
| Rice Krispies (or other crispy cereal) | 2 cups |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 35.5 kcal |
| Fat Content | 2.5 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 1.6 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 7 mg |
| Sodium Content | 49.1 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 2.4 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.1 g |
| Sugar Content | 0.1 g |
| Protein Content | 0.8 g |
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that the cheese tidbits bake evenly and become crispy. -
-
Cream the Butter and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend them together until smooth and creamy. The rich flavor of the cheddar will give these tidbits their signature sharp taste. -
Add Seasonings and Flour
To the butter and cheese mixture, add the salt, cayenne pepper, and plain flour. Mix briefly with the mixer, just enough to incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ones. Be careful not to overmix at this stage to keep the dough from becoming too tough. -
Incorporate the Rice Krispies
Gently fold in the Rice Krispies, either using your mixer on low speed or by hand. The Rice Krispies will provide that delightful crunch and texture, making each bite of the cheese tidbits a perfect balance of soft and crisp. -
Shape the Tidbits
Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, roughly the size of an olive. Place these dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, ensuring they are spaced about 1 inch apart to allow for even baking. -
Flatten the Balls
Use a fork to gently press each ball flat, creating a small, round wafer. To make the characteristic ridges, press the fork into the dough, then pull the fork across the top. If the dough starts to stick to the fork, dip it in a little flour to keep it from sticking. -
Bake the Tidbits
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. The cheese tidbits should turn golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overbake. -
Cool and Serve
Once they are baked, remove the tidbits from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Once cooled, serve them as an appetizer, snack, or addition to a brunch spread. These cheese tidbits can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them perfect for preparing in advance.
Recipe Yield
This recipe makes approximately 100 cheese wafers, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying throughout the week.
Helpful Tips
- Customize the Cheese: While extra-sharp cheddar is the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as gouda, gruyère, or even a smoked cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: These cheese tidbits can be made ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh and crisp for days.
- Texture Tweaks: If you prefer a more buttery texture, slightly increase the butter by 1/4 cup, or adjust the Rice Krispies for more or less crunch, depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
These Ruby’s Cheese Tidbits are a fun and flavorful treat that will surely be the hit of any gathering. Their light, crisp texture combined with the rich, savory cheese and subtle kick of cayenne makes them a snack you can’t put down. Perfect for brunch, holiday parties, or just a quick afternoon snack, they’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a batch of these irresistible cheese wafers!
