Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers

Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers are a delightful and savory treat that combines the rich flavors of pecans and blue cheese in a crispy, bite-sized cracker. These crackers are perfect for serving as an appetizer at a party or as a snack for a cozy night in.

History

The combination of pecans and blue cheese in a cracker is a classic flavor pairing that has been enjoyed for generations. Pecans are a popular nut in Southern cuisine, known for their rich, buttery flavor. Blue cheese, with its tangy and creamy taste, adds a delicious depth of flavor to these crackers.

Ingredients

1.5 cups pecan halves
1 large egg
1 stick (0.5 cup) unsalted butter, softened
0.5 lb (227 g) Saga blue cheese, softened
1 cup all-purpose flour

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a preheated oven, toast 0.5 cup of pecans for about 7 minutes, until they are lightly browned. Allow them to cool.
Finely chop the toasted pecans and set them aside.
In a bowl, cream the butter and Saga blue cheese together using a fork until the mixture is smooth.
Add the egg yolk to the mixture and stir until well combined.
Add the flour and chopped pecans to the mixture and stir until a dough forms.
Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a 12- by 1.25-inch log using wax paper as a guide.
Wrap the logs in wax paper and freeze them until they are firm, which should take about 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C) and lightly grease 2 large baking sheets.
Slice the logs crosswise into 0.25-inch-thick slices and arrange the slices about 0.5 inch apart on the baking sheets.
Place a pecan half on top of each cracker, pressing it slightly into the dough.
Brush the tops of the crackers, including the pecans, with lightly beaten egg white.
Bake the crackers in batches, if necessary, on the upper and lower thirds of the oven. Switch the position of the baking sheets halfway through baking.
Bake the crackers until they turn golden brown, which should take about 12 minutes in total.
Using a spatula, transfer the crackers to paper towels to blot any excess oil, then transfer them to a rack to cool.

Variations

Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans for a different flavor profile.
Use a different type of blue cheese, such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola, for a unique twist.
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the dough for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to toast the pecans before chopping them for a deeper, nuttier flavor.

- Freezing the dough logs before slicing and baking helps the crackers hold their shape.

- Brushing the tops of the crackers with egg white before baking gives them a shiny, golden finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers with a glass of wine or a cold beer for a sophisticated appetizer. They also pair well with fruit preserves or chutney for a sweet and savory contrast.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming the butter and blue cheese together creates a smooth and creamy base for the dough.

- Freezing the dough logs before slicing helps the crackers hold their shape during baking.

- Baking the crackers on two separate racks in the oven ensures even cooking and browning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Saga blue cheese, you can use another type of blue cheese or even a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan.

- You can use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of these crackers.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers ahead of time and freeze it until you're ready to bake. Simply slice and bake the crackers as needed for a fresh and delicious snack.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers on a platter with a variety of cheeses, fruits, and nuts for an elegant and appetizing display. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers pair well with a variety of beverages, including red wine, white wine, beer, or sparkling water. They also complement a charcuterie board or cheese platter beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (177°C) oven for a few minutes until warm and crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pecans are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc, while blue cheese provides calcium and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains pecans, dairy (blue cheese), eggs, and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers are a delicious and indulgent treat that provide a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They also offer some essential vitamins and minerals, making them a satisfying snack option.

Summary

Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers are a delicious and sophisticated snack that combines the rich flavors of pecans and blue cheese in a crispy, bite-sized cracker. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals, these crackers are a satisfying and indulgent treat for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew I had to try it. It was a cool autumn day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a simple and elegant recipe caught my eye: Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers.

The combination of pecans and blue cheese intrigued me. I had never thought to pair these two ingredients together before, but something about it seemed so right. The recipe called for just a handful of ingredients – flour, butter, blue cheese, pecans, and a few seasonings. It seemed simple enough, but I could already imagine the rich, nutty flavor of the pecans mingling with the sharp tang of the blue cheese.

I decided to make the crackers that very afternoon. I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my cozy kitchen, the warm scent of butter and pecans filling the air. As I mixed the dough and rolled it out, I couldn't help but think back to all the times I had spent in the kitchen with my own grandmother, watching her cook and learning from her every step of the way.

My grandmother was a master in the kitchen. She had a talent for taking simple ingredients and turning them into something truly extraordinary. I had learned so much from her over the years, and as I placed the crackers in the oven to bake, I felt a sense of pride knowing that I was carrying on her legacy in my own way.

When the crackers emerged from the oven, golden and crisp, I couldn't wait to try them. I took a bite and was instantly transported to a world of flavor. The crunch of the pecans, the creaminess of the blue cheese – it was a perfect marriage of textures and tastes. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

As the years went by, I made the Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers countless times. They became a favorite among my family and friends, and I was always happy to share the recipe with anyone who asked. Each time I made them, I felt a connection to my grandmother and the countless hours we had spent together in the kitchen, bonding over our love of food and good company.

I often wonder where my grandmother learned to make this recipe. Perhaps it was from a friend or a neighbor, passed down through generations just like it had been to me. Or maybe she had discovered it on her own, through trial and error in her own kitchen. Whatever the origin, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the memories it brings to mind.

Now, as I pass on the recipe for Pecan Blue Cheese Crackers to my own grandchildren, I hope that they too will find joy in the simple act of cooking and sharing good food with loved ones. I hope that they will remember the stories and traditions that have been passed down through the generations, just as I have. And most of all, I hope that they will always savor the rich flavors and comforting memories that come with each bite of these delicious crackers.