Butter crackers

Treats for Carolers - Cheese and Poppy Seed Snacks

During the holiday season, when carolers bring us joy and good cheer, it is essential to have delicious snacks on hand to make their visit even more enjoyable. Cheese and poppy seed snacks are those treats that combine a crunchy texture with the unmistakable flavor of salty cheese and poppy seeds. This simple and quick recipe will surely become everyone’s favorite. So, let’s get to work!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 4 large eggs
- 400 g salty cheese (or cottage cheese, if you prefer a lighter version)
- 300 g all-purpose flour (approximately, or as needed)
- Poppy seeds (or any other preferred seeds: sesame, flax, etc.)

Recipe History

Snacks are a traditional delicacy, known by different names in various cultures. These savory snacks have their origins in gastronomy, prepared over time to accompany alcoholic beverages or to add flavor to festive meals. In many countries, snacks are associated with festive moments, especially during Christmas or New Year, when carolers are welcomed with open arms and full tables.

Preparation Method:

1. Prepare the dough:
In a large bowl, start by grating the salty cheese. If you prefer a less salty cheese, you can use cottage cheese or a combination of the two. Make sure the cheese is well crumbled so it easily integrates into the dough.

2. Add the eggs:
After grating the cheese, add the four large eggs. These will give a fluffy texture to your snacks. Mix the ingredients well using a spatula or a whisk until the eggs are fully incorporated.

3. Incorporate the butter:
The soft butter, left at room temperature, is gradually added to the cheese and egg mixture. It is important that the butter is soft to mix easily without forming lumps. Knead gently with your hands to obtain a uniform composition.

4. Add the flour:
Now is the time to sprinkle in the flour. Start with 250 g and mix well. Continue adding flour until you obtain an elastic dough that doesn’t stick to your hands. If necessary, you can adjust the amount of flour, but be careful not to add too much, or the snacks will become hard.

5. Chill the dough:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours, preferably between 1-2 hours. This step is essential to allow the butter to harden, which will help achieve a crunchy texture.

6. Form the snacks:
After the dough has rested, take it out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured work surface. Roll the dough into a sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Use a sharp knife or a pastry cutter to cut the dough into strips about 1 cm wide.

7. Brush and sprinkle:
Place the strips of dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush each strip with a pastry brush. This step will give an appetizing golden color. Sprinkle poppy seeds (or other preferred seeds) on top for extra crunch and flavor.

8. Bake:
Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. Bake the snacks for about 15 minutes or until golden and crunchy. Be careful with them, as baking time may vary depending on the oven.

9. Cool and serve:
After taking them out of the oven, carefully transfer the snacks to a platter and let them cool completely. They can be stored in paper bags to keep them crunchy.

Serving Suggestion:
Cheese and poppy seed snacks are excellent alongside a cold beer or fresh lemonade. They add flavor and are perfect for enjoying with friends and family during caroling evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with feta or cheddar cheese to obtain different flavors.

2. How can I make the snacks spicier?
Add a bit of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the dough for a spicier taste.

3. Can the snacks be frozen?
Yes, the snacks can be frozen after they have completely cooled. Make sure they are well wrapped to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Nutritional Benefits:
These snacks are a good source of calcium, thanks to the cheese. Additionally, the butter adds a significant amount of healthy fats. Whole wheat flour, if used, will add fiber and make the snack more filling.

Calories (per 100 g): approximately 400 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and butter used.

Possible Variations:
You can customize the snacks by adding herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano to the dough. You can also try replacing the poppy seeds with sesame seeds or even topping with grated cheese before baking for an extra flavor boost.

With these simple yet delicious treats, the holidays will be filled with taste and good cheer. Enjoy and have beautiful caroling!