Southern 3-Ingredient Spicy Cheese Pennies

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Each bite starts with a delicate cracker crunch, followed by sharp, creamy cheddar and a bright burst of jalapeño heat. They are especially inviting served warm, while the cheese is still soft.

Yield
8 servings · About 32 crackers
Prep time
10 minutes
Cook time
8–10 minutes
Rest / chill time
2–3 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 sleeve reduced-sodium buttery round crackers, about 32 crackers
  • 8 ounces reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small, thin squares
  • ½ cup sliced pickled jalapeños, drained, briefly rinsed and patted dry

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
  2. Arrange the crackers in a single layer, leaving a little space between them.
  3. Divide the cheddar evenly among the crackers and top each with 1–2 jalapeño slices.
  4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the cracker edges are golden.
  5. Let cool on the tray for 2–3 minutes, then serve warm.

Kitchen notes

Timing guide:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes

Practical Woman's Secret
Use reduced-fat cheddar made with 2% milk for better melting than fat-free cheese. Dry the rinsed jalapeños thoroughly so their moisture does not soften the crackers.

Serving and Storage
Serve warm on a platter for an easy party snack.
Refrigerate cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F for 2–3 minutes, until warmed through. For the best crunch, assemble just before baking.

Nutrition information
Estimated per serving: 4 crackers, based on 32 crackers and 8 servings
Calories150 kcal
Protein8 g
Carbohydrate9 g
Total fat9 g
Fiber0.5 g
Sugars1 g
Sodium300 mg

Nutrition information is an estimate for the serving size stated above. Actual values may vary depending on ingredients, brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes.

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