Savory pastries

Cheese and cumin crackers: a simple and delicious recipe

There are moments in life when a savory snack can turn an ordinary day into something special. Cheese and cumin crackers are exactly that perfect choice, ideal for a coffee break, a party, or simply to be enjoyed with loved ones. These mini crispy baguettes have a slightly crumbly texture and an unmistakable taste that combines the sweetness of cheese with the intense aroma of cumin.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 crackers

Essential ingredients:
- 200 g butter (or margarine, as preferred)
- 200 g grated salty cheese (can be cottage cheese, feta, or a local cheese, depending on preference)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Cumin (to taste)
- Flour, as needed (about 300-400 g, but it’s good to have extra flour on hand)

Let’s start the culinary adventure!

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the butter cut into cubes. Make sure the butter is at room temperature to soften more easily. Using a mixer or a spatula, mix the butter until it becomes creamy and fluffy. This is an important step, as a well-aerated dough will result in fluffier crackers.

Step 2: Enriching with cheese
Add the grated cheese to the bowl with the butter and mix well. The cheese is the star of the recipe, so feel free to experiment with its type. A saltier cheese will give a more intense flavor, while a sweeter cheese will create a pleasant contrast. Once the cheese is well incorporated, add the egg and baking powder. Mix until homogeneous.

Step 3: Flour and cumin
Start adding the flour gradually. It’s important to add the flour in small quantities to control the dough’s consistency. Also add the cumin, which will provide a distinctive flavor to the crackers. Knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous and easy to shape. If the dough is too sticky, add a few more tablespoons of flour.

Step 4: Resting the dough
After obtaining a nice and elastic dough, wrap it in cling film and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is not only to give it a better texture but also to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 5: Shaping the crackers
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until you obtain a thin sheet, about 5 mm thick. Using a special rolling cutter, cut out the desired shapes. If you want a shinier appearance, you can brush the crackers with beaten egg before sprinkling them with cumin. This step is optional, but adds a nice shine!

Step 6: Baking
Place the crackers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and put them in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy. The delightful aroma will fill the kitchen, and you will want to enjoy them as soon as you take them out of the oven.

Step 7: Serving
Cheese and cumin crackers are excellent both warm and cold. You can serve them as an appetizer at a party, alongside a yogurt dip with dill, or even as a snack between meals. They pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, and your friends will be delighted with your choice!

Useful tips:
- You can also add other spices like dill or oregano to customize the flavor of the crackers.
- Instead of cumin, try sesame or poppy seeds for a different variation.
- The crackers can be stored in airtight containers for a few days, but they are so delicious that they are hard to resist!

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace butter with vegetable oil?
Yes, but the texture will be different. Butter provides a richer flavor and a more pleasant texture.
2. How can I tell if the crackers are done?
Check them at 25 minutes. If they are golden and crispy, they are ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze the crackers?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Thaw them in the refrigerator and bake according to the instructions.

Nutritional benefits:
Cheese and cumin crackers are a good source of protein thanks to the cheese and egg. Additionally, cumin has antioxidant and digestive properties, adding a health boost to the dish.

These cheese and cumin crackers represent a perfect combination of taste and texture, and the preparation process is simple and quick. Start experimenting and adapting the recipe to your personal preferences, and the result will surely be a hit among your loved ones! Enjoy!