Valentines Snacks Heart Shaped Crackers
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love making these heart-shaped crackers for Valentine's Day! They are adorable, easy to prepare, and add a special touch to any celebration. The combination of herbs and cheese gives them a delightful flavor that makes them irresistible. Plus, they can be served with a variety of dips or cheeses, making them perfect for sharing. Whether for a romantic dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these crackers are sure to impress everyone. Let's dive into this simple yet charming recipe!
When I first decided to make these heart-shaped crackers, I wanted something festive yet simple. The dough came together quickly with just a few ingredients. I rolled it out and used a heart-shaped cutter, which was delightful! My kids loved helping and sprinkles of cheese and herbs added the perfect touch.
I recommend using high-quality cheese to enhance the flavor. The hint of rosemary complements the crispy texture beautifully. Once they were baked, the house smelled incredible, and everyone couldn't wait to dive in. This recipe surely became a favorite!
Why You'll Love These Crackers
- Adorably shaped to impress your sweethearts
- Crispy texture combined with cheesy goodness
- Perfect for pairing with a variety of dips or spreads
A Flavorful Base
The blend of cheddar cheese and herbs forms the heart of these crackers, providing both flavor and texture. Cheddar contributes a sharp, nutty taste, while the dried rosemary adds an aromatic touch that makes each bite delightful. Make sure to use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged, as it melts better and enhances the overall flavor.
If you want to change up the flavor profile, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like parmesan or gouda. You could also try various herbs such as thyme or oregano, but keep in mind that stronger flavors will require moderation to balance with the cheese.
Chilling is Key
Chilling the dough before rolling is a crucial step that ensures your crackers maintain their shape while baking. It allows the butter to firm up, preventing excessive spreading during cooking. Aim for at least 10 minutes of chill time; if you have more time, chilling for 30 minutes is even better for firmer crackers.
When rolling out the dough, flour your surface and the rolling pin generously to prevent sticking. If the dough feels too sticky, just sprinkle a little more flour as needed. A thickness of about 1/8 inch is ideal to achieve the perfect crispy texture while still being sturdy enough to hold dips.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your heart-shaped crackers!
Heart Shaped Crackers Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3-4 tbsp cold water
Once you have your ingredients ready, you are all set to bake these delightful treats!
Instructions
Follow these steps for making the perfect heart-shaped crackers.
Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cheddar cheese, dried rosemary, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together.
Roll and Cut
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut out the crackers and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Crackers
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Your heart-shaped crackers are now ready to be served! Enjoy them with your favorite dips.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling some coarse sea salt on top of the crackers before baking. They can also be customized with different herbs and cheeses to suit your taste!
Storage Tips
Once your heart-shaped crackers are cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure they are fully cooled to prevent moisture from making them soggy. For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and cutting.
Alternatively, if you have leftover baked crackers, they freeze well too. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Simply reheat in the oven for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) when you're ready to enjoy them again.
Serving Suggestions
These heart-shaped crackers are incredibly versatile and lend themselves to various serving options. Pair them with a creamy dip like spinach artichoke or a zesty salsa to elevate your snack game. They also pair nicely with cheese platters, especially soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie, which offer a delightful contrast to the crunchy texture.
For a romantic touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate on half of each cracker or sprinkling them with a bit of sea salt before baking for an added flavor punch. They can also be served with assorted charcuterie for a fun and festive arrangement that’s sure to impress your guests!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days.
→ What other cheeses can I use?
You can use any cheese you like, such as Parmesan, mozzarella, or even a spicy cheese for an extra kick!
→ How do I store the baked crackers?
Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these crackers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked crackers. Just ensure they are completely cooled and stored in an airtight bag or container.
Valentines Snacks Heart Shaped Crackers
I love making these heart-shaped crackers for Valentine's Day! They are adorable, easy to prepare, and add a special touch to any celebration. The combination of herbs and cheese gives them a delightful flavor that makes them irresistible. Plus, they can be served with a variety of dips or cheeses, making them perfect for sharing. Whether for a romantic dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these crackers are sure to impress everyone. Let's dive into this simple yet charming recipe!
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 crackers
What You'll Need
Heart Shaped Crackers Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3-4 tbsp cold water
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cheddar cheese, dried rosemary, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together. Wrap the dough in plastic and chill for 10 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut out the crackers and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling some coarse sea salt on top of the crackers before baking. They can also be customized with different herbs and cheeses to suit your taste!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 3g