Pepper Jack Crackers

Pepper Jack Crackers Recipe - A Delicious Snack from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 24 pieces

Introduction

Pepper Jack Crackers are a delicious and spicy snack that are perfect for any occasion. These homemade crackers are easy to make and are sure to impress your friends and family. With a perfect balance of cheese and spice, these crackers are a crowd favorite.

History

The recipe for Pepper Jack Crackers originated in the United States, where Pepper Jack cheese is a popular choice for adding a spicy kick to dishes. These crackers are a fun twist on traditional cheese crackers and are a great way to showcase the bold flavors of Pepper Jack cheese.

Ingredients

1 stick (0.5 cup) of softened unsalted butter
0.5 lb (227 g) of coarsely grated pepper jack cheese
1 large egg, separated
1 tsp of salt, or to taste
0.75 tsp of cayenne, or to taste
1 cup of all-purpose flour

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C) and grease two baking sheets.
In a food processor, blend together the butter and cheese until smooth.
Add the egg yolk, salt, and cayenne and blend until combined.
Add the flour and blend until the mixture just forms a dough.
Working in batches, transfer the dough to a pastry bag fitted with a 0.88 inch-wide ribbon tip and pipe the dough in long strips, 2 inches apart, on the baking sheets. (Alternatively, working in batches, the dough may be transferred to a cookie press fitted with a ribbon disk and pressed out in long strips, 2 inches apart, on the baking sheets. Dough strips may break in places but repairs are not necessary, as the strips will be cut later.)
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and a pinch of salt until just combined.
Brush each strip of dough with some egg white and bake in batches in the middle of the oven until golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes.
While the crackers are still hot, slice them diagonally into 1.5 inch-long pieces and cool completely on racks.
The crackers can be kept in airtight containers for up to 5 days.

Variations

Add chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
Substitute different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to blend the butter and cheese until smooth to ensure a creamy texture.

- Be careful not to overmix the dough once the flour is added, as this can result in tough crackers.

- Brushing the crackers with egg white before baking helps to create a shiny and crispy crust.

- Allow the crackers to cool completely on racks before storing to ensure they stay crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Pepper Jack Crackers are delicious on their own, but can also be served with a variety of toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or hummus. They also pair well with sliced meats and cheeses for a simple and elegant appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

Using a pastry bag or cookie press helps to create uniform crackers.

- Slicing the crackers while still warm helps to create clean edges.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use salted butter if you prefer a slightly saltier cracker.

- Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Pepper Jack Crackers can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving to crisp them up.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange Pepper Jack Crackers on a platter with a variety of cheeses, meats, and fruits for a beautiful and delicious spread. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pepper Jack Crackers pair well with a variety of beverages, such as beer, wine, or cocktails. They also complement a cheese board or charcuterie platter.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Pepper Jack Crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pepper Jack Crackers contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pepper Jack Crackers contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pepper Jack Crackers contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Pepper Jack Crackers contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pepper Jack Crackers are a good source of calcium, providing approximately 10% of the recommended daily intake per serving.

Alergens

Pepper Jack Crackers contain dairy and eggs.

Summary

Pepper Jack Crackers are a tasty snack that is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories. They are a good source of calcium and protein, making them a satisfying and nutritious treat.

Summary

Pepper Jack Crackers are a flavorful and spicy snack that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy texture and bold cheese flavor, these homemade crackers are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them on their own or paired with your favorite dips and toppings for a delicious treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Pepper Jack Crackers. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck with some friends from my knitting group. I wanted to bring something unique and delicious, so I decided to search through my collection of old recipe cards for inspiration.

As I rummaged through the old wooden box that held my treasured recipes, I came across a faded index card with the words "Pepper Jack Crackers" scrawled across the top in my grandmother's elegant handwriting. I had never made this particular recipe before, but I remembered my grandmother telling me about it years ago. She had learned how to make the crackers from a dear friend of hers who was known for her culinary skills.

Excited to try something new, I carefully read through the ingredients and instructions on the card. The recipe called for a simple combination of flour, butter, cheese, and spices. It seemed easy enough, so I gathered the necessary ingredients and got to work in the kitchen.

I started by mixing the flour and butter together until they formed a crumbly dough. Next, I grated a generous amount of Pepper Jack cheese and mixed it into the dough along with some chopped jalapeños and a dash of garlic powder. The scent of the cheese and spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I rolled out the dough and used a small cookie cutter to create perfectly round crackers. I placed them on a baking sheet and popped them into the oven, eagerly waiting for them to bake to crispy perfection.

As the crackers baked, the aroma of melted cheese and spices wafted through the kitchen, tempting me to sneak a taste. When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the tray out of the oven and marveled at the golden-brown crackers that lay before me.

I allowed the crackers to cool for a few minutes before taking a bite. The first taste was a burst of flavor - the sharp tang of the Pepper Jack cheese combined with the subtle heat of the jalapeños was a winning combination. The crackers were light and crunchy, with just the right amount of spice to keep me coming back for more.

I packaged up the Pepper Jack Crackers in a decorative tin and headed off to the potluck. As soon as I arrived, the crackers were an instant hit. My friends couldn't get enough of the bold flavors and addictive crunch of the homemade snack.

Throughout the evening, I was bombarded with requests for the recipe. I happily shared the story of how I had discovered it in my grandmother's recipe box and how it had quickly become one of my favorites. Everyone was amazed at how such a simple recipe could yield such delicious results.

From that day on, Pepper Jack Crackers became a staple at all of my gatherings. Whether it was a potluck with friends or a family holiday celebration, the crackers were always a hit. I loved seeing the smiles on people's faces as they savored each crispy bite, knowing that I had stumbled upon a truly special recipe.

Years passed, and I continued to make the Pepper Jack Crackers for every occasion. Each time I pulled out that faded index card from my grandmother's box, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the culinary legacy she had passed down to me.

As I sit here today, reminiscing about that fateful summer day when I first discovered the recipe, I can't help but smile. The Pepper Jack Crackers may seem like a simple snack, but to me, they represent so much more. They are a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing good food with loved ones and the cherished memories that can be created in the kitchen.

So, the next time you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make snack to impress your friends and family, I urge you to give my grandmother's recipe for Pepper Jack Crackers a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Happy baking!