A savory snack that gives a mouthful
of flavor.
12 OZ (3 CUPS) SHARP CHEDDAR HEESE – shredded
1 ½ CUPS FLOUR (6 1/3 OZ)
1 TBS CORNSTARCH
1 ¼ TSP COLEMAN’S MUSTARD
PINCH OF SALT
QUICK GRIND OF BLACK PEPPER
PINCH OF CAYENNE – or to taste
½ CUP USALTED BUTTER – chilled, cut into ½-inch pieces
3 TBS WATER
PREHEAT OVEN TO 350º
LINE COOKIE SHEETS WITH PRCHMENT PAPER
Process cheese, flour, cornstarch, mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne in your food processor until mixture consists of small beads – about 30 seconds. Add butter (easier if cut from 8oz log) in 3 additions, pulsing 5 or 6 times after each addition….. Continue until mixture is the texture of wet sand. Important to keep scraping down the sides as you pulse. Continue processing while adding water 1 tablespoon at a time and making sure to stop once dough has formed. Remove dough from bowl and continue to knead on a floured board until you feel comfortable that the dough is firm. But do not overwork.
Divide dough in half and hand roll each half into a 10-inch roll. Wrap securely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.
When ready to use, unwrap one log at a time and slice crosswise into ¼” slices. You want to get 30 slices per roll. (I can accomplish this by marking the dough off in segments, ½, ¼, etc. then I know how many slices I need to get out of each segment) Place slices 2-inches apart on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven just until the centers are set but not crisp, but bottom is golden brown – 14-16 minutes. But start checking at the 12 minute mark. It’s a good idea to rotate rack half way into the baking.
Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to allow to cool completely – about 15-20 minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Repeat with any remaining dough.
NOTE: These logs can be made ahead, wrapped tightly in plastic and frozen until ready to use for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw in the fridge overnight or for at least 10-12 hours before slicing. Serve as plain crackers or top with your favorite things such as cheese slices, cheese spreads or use with your favorite dip.
BUON MANGIATA!

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