Cheddar Cheese Bites
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, shredded cheddar cheese, softened butter, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture.
- Gradually add in the water, mixing until the dough holds together.
- Roll the dough into small balls or shape them into bite-sized nuggets.
- Place the shaped bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Cheddar Cheese Bites are not only scrumptious on their own, but they can also be paired beautifully with an array of dips. Consider serving them with a zesty marinara sauce, creamy ranch, or a sharp mustard for some added flavor. For a complete snack plate, include some fresh vegetable sticks or a simple green salad on the side.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Cheddar Cheese Bites fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to preserve them for a longer time, consider freezing them. To freeze, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They should maintain their quality for about a month. When ready to eat, bake straight from the freezer for a quick snack.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your butter is truly softened; it helps create a flaky texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough; the less you handle it, the lighter your bites will be.
- Experiment with spices! Adding a hint of cayenne pepper or dried herbs can elevate the flavor even more.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations on the classic Cheddar Cheese Bites:
- Herbed Cheese Bites – Add a teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Cheddar Bites – Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to bring the heat.
- Sweet Twist – Use a blend of cheddar and crumbled blue cheese—try a drizzle of honey after baking for a sweet-savory combination.
Common questions
How long does it take to prep these Cheddar Cheese Bites?
You can prepare the dough in about 10 minutes, and they take 15-20 minutes to bake. Overall, expect the total cooking time to be around 30 minutes!
Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the oven will help keep them crispy.
With these Cheddar Cheese Bites in your cooking arsenal, you’ll have a deliciously cheesy snack that delights all palates. Enjoy!
Cheddar Cheese Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, shredded cheddar cheese, softened butter, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture.
- Gradually add in the water, mixing until the dough holds together.
- Roll the dough into small balls or shape them into bite-sized nuggets.
- Place the shaped bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
