Some cheese recipes feel like they’ve been passed down through generations, even if you’re only discovering them for the first time.
Cheese pennies are one of those little treasures. They’re simple, savory crackers made with butter, flour, and sharp cheese—rolled, sliced, and baked until golden. These bite-sized treats are perfect for serving with soup, tucking into lunchboxes, or setting out on a tray for guests.
And while every family has its own version, this one leans on the bold, tangy character of Goot Essa’s Mountain Valley Sharp Cheddar—a cheese that’s aged to develop a depth of flavor that makes these pennies stand out.
A Bite-Sized Tradition Worth Keeping
Cheese pennies are proof that the best things in life don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a snack that feels both nostalgic and timeless. They’re crisp, buttery, and wonderfully cheesy—something you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, packing snacks for a road trip, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these little rounds have a way of making the moment more special.
Ingredients
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1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a gentle kick)
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12 oz Goot Essa Mountain Valley Sharp Cheddar, finely shredded
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1–2 tablespoons cold water, if needed
Directions
1. Cream the butter. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and fluffy. This will give your dough its rich, tender base.
2. Add dry ingredients. Mix in the flour, salt, and cayenne. The dough will look crumbly at this stage—that’s just right.
3. Fold in the cheese. Gently work the shredded Mountain Valley Sharp Cheddar into the dough until evenly distributed. The dough should start coming together into a soft ball.
4. Shape into logs. Divide the dough in half and roll each portion into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in parchment or plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
5. Slice and bake. Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice the logs into thin rounds (about ¼ inch thick) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 12–15 minutes, or until golden around the edges.
6. Cool and enjoy. Let the pennies cool slightly before serving. They’ll crisp up beautifully as they rest.
Why These Little Crackers Stand Out
Cheese pennies may be simple, but they don’t taste ordinary. The sharp cheddar in this recipe gives them a boldness that sets them apart from any store-bought cracker. They’re rich without being heavy, crisp without being dry, and just the right size for snacking.
Their beauty lies in versatility—you can serve them alongside soup, tuck them onto a charcuterie board, or keep a jarful on the counter for those moments when you want a savory bite. They fit into almost any occasion, and the flavor speaks for itself.
From Our Table to Yours
Recipes like this remind us that food is best when it’s shared. There’s something about offering a plate of homemade cheese pennies that feels warm and genuine—like an invitation to slow down and enjoy the moment.
That’s the same spirit that guides the work we do at Goot Essa every day.
Whether it’s our sharp cheddars, smoked cheeses, creamy Swiss, or the jams and mustards that complement them, everything we make is meant to bring people together. And if you’re looking for something thoughtful to give, our carefully curated gift baskets are ready to carry that same feeling of welcome from our table to yours.
Have something in mind for your next gathering or gift? Give us a call—we’d be glad to help you choose.
Conclusion
Cheese pennies may be small, but they carry a big dose of comfort and flavor. With their crisp texture and sharp, buttery bite, they’re the kind of snack that feels just as right at a family gathering as it does during a quiet afternoon at home.
Simple to make and endlessly versatile, this recipe is one you’ll find yourself coming back to whenever you want something that brings a little extra joy to the table. After all, sometimes the most memorable moments come from the simplest foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cheese pennies ahead of time?
Yes. The dough logs can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Just slice and bake when you’re ready.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. A smoked cheddar will add a woodsy depth, while a milder cheddar makes for a softer, gentler flavor.
How should I store baked cheese pennies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If they lose crispness, reheat them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.
Do they pair well with drinks?
Yes! Cheese pennies are wonderful with tea, lemonade, or even a crisp hard cider. They also shine alongside soups and stews.
Can I make them spicier?
For extra heat, increase the cayenne or add a pinch of smoked paprika. They’re easy to adjust to your taste.
