Cheddar cookies
Cheddar cookies are the perfect blend of savoury and crumbly, making them a wonderful addition to any cheese board. These easy-to-prepare treats are versatile enough for both everyday snacking and special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a festive holiday spread, or simply looking for a unique appetizer, cheddar cookies will impress your guests with their rich flavor and delicate texture.Pair them with your favorite cheeses, dips, or enjoy them on their own. Their buttery, cheesy goodness complements a wide range of flavors, making them a must-have for any gathering. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cheddar cookies in no time.
Equipment
- food processor
Ingredients
- 100 g matured, creamy cheddar
- 125 g flour, plus some extra flour for dusting the worksurface
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 80 g soft butter
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp nigella seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready when the dough is prepared.
- Process the Dough:Using a food processor makes this recipe quick and effortless. Add the cheddar cheese directly to the processor (no need to pre-grate) and pulse until it resembles coarse crumbs. Next, add the flour, salt, butter, and egg, processing until fine crumbs form. Finally, add a tablespoon of ice-cold water and pulse until the dough just comes together into a smooth ball.
- Shape the Dough:Roll the dough into a log about 4-5 cm in diameter. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm up slightly.
- Slice and Decorate:Once the dough has chilled, slice the log into rounds 1-2 cm thick. For a decorative touch, sprinkle each slice with nigella seeds (wild onion seeds). Alternatively, roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to create festive shapes like stars for a holiday theme.
- Bake the Cookies:Arrange the slices or shapes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. The cookies should be slightly browned around the edges when done.
- Cool and Serve:Allow the cookies to cool on the baking tray as they are delicate and crumbly in texture. Once cooled, they’re ready to enjoy on their own or as part of a cheese platter. Festive shapes also make wonderful edible decorations for the holidays!