Cheese Wafers Recipe
Recipe Overview:
This delightful Cheese Wafers recipe, famously attributed to Lady Bird Johnson, has become a cherished addition to many holiday gatherings, especially Christmas Eve buffets. Known for its simplicity and irresistible flavor, these wafers are not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to be enjoyed throughout the year, whether freshly baked or conveniently stored in the freezer for later enjoyment.
Recipe Details:

- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 1 batch (exact number of servings not specified)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups crispy rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies)
Nutritional Information (Per Batch):
- Calories: 3674
- Total Fat: 262.7g
- Saturated Fat: 165.1g
- Cholesterol: 726.2mg
- Sodium: 4416.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 242.7g
- Fiber: 7.6g
- Sugars: 7.2g
- Protein: 88g
Rating and Reviews:
- Aggregated Rating: 5 stars (based on 6 reviews)
Recipe Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese, cayenne pepper, and salt until well combined.
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Incorporate Cereal:
- Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal (e.g., Rice Krispies) into the dough mixture. The cereal adds a pleasant crunch and texture to the wafers.
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Shape and Bake:
- Drop small spoonfuls of the dough onto ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each spoonful slightly with the back of a spoon to create a uniform shape.
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Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the wafers are lightly golden brown. Be careful not to overbake; the wafers should be crisp but not overly browned.
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Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the wafers cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Storage Tip:
- These Cheese Wafers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. They also freeze well, making them a convenient make-ahead option for holiday entertaining.
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Enjoy:
- Serve these delicious Cheese Wafers as a snack or appetizer at your next gathering. Their savory cheese flavor with a hint of spice from the cayenne pepper makes them a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Recipe Notes
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Cheese Selection: Opt for a good quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. You can experiment with different types of cheeses to vary the flavor profile.
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Cayenne Pepper: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference for spiciness. It adds a subtle heat that complements the richness of the cheese.
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Texture: The addition of crispy rice cereal not only enhances the texture but also adds a lightness to the wafers, making them irresistibly crispy.
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Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to bake. This allows for easy preparation and fresh baking whenever desired.
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Presentation: Consider serving these wafers on a decorative platter alongside other appetizers or cheeses for an elegant presentation during festive occasions.
Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or simply craving a savory snack, these Cheese Wafers are sure to impress with their rich cheese flavor and delightful crispness. Enjoy the process of baking them and savor the joy they bring to your table!