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Crispy Caliente Christmas Cheese Crisps

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These festive cheese crisps are spicy, cheesy, and shatteringly crisp—perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or snacking by the fire. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, they bring a bold, caliente kick to any celebration.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (about 6 oz)
  • 1 cup freshly grated pepper jack cheese (about 4 oz)
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced fresh jalapeño (seeds removed for milder crisps)
  • 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives or green onions
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (swap with almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: Pinch or two of red pepper flakes for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Grate the cheddar and pepper jack cheeses using a box grater or food processor.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine grated cheeses, jalapeño, chives, smoked paprika, cayenne, cornstarch, flour, and black pepper. Toss until evenly mixed.
  4. Scoop heaping tablespoons (about 15g each) of mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing mounds about 2 inches apart. Flatten each mound into a thin disc.
  5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are deep golden brown and centers are bubbly and set. Watch closely in the last 2 minutes to prevent burning.
  6. Cool crisps on the pan for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for maximum crunch.
  7. Optional: While still warm, sprinkle with extra chives or red pepper flakes for a festive look.

Notes

For gluten-free crisps, swap all-purpose flour for almond flour. Adjust jalapeño and cayenne for desired spice level. Freshly grated cheese yields the best texture—avoid pre-shredded cheese. Store crisps in an airtight container lined with paper towels for up to 3 days. Re-crisp in a 300°F oven if needed. Customize with different cheeses, herbs, or festive toppings.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese crisps, spicy snack, holiday appetizer, Christmas snack, gluten-free option, low carb, party food, easy cheese recipe

Find it online: https://fuzzyforker.com/crispy-caliente-christmas-cheese-crisps-easy-spicy-holiday-snack-recipe/