These crispy, Golden Cheese Crunch Bites are packed with bold cheddar flavor and a hint of spice. Perfect for snacking, party appetizers, or pairing with your favorite dips, they are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how simple yet flavorful these cheese bites are. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a crispy, cheesy snack in no time. The combination of sharp cheddar and warm spices creates a perfect balance of savory and slightly smoky flavors. They are great for entertaining or just satisfying a crunchy snack craving.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup melted butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Salt to taste
Directions
Preheat the oven – Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the dough – In a bowl, mix the shredded cheddar, flour, melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until a dough forms.
Shape the bites – Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Bake – Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy on the edges.
Cool and serve – Let them cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 12 bites
Calories per serving: 140 kcal
Variations
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for extra heat.
Herb Infusion – Mix in dried thyme or oregano for an herby twist.
Cheese Swap – Try different cheeses like pepper jack or parmesan for a new flavor profile.
Crunchier Texture – Coat the bites with panko breadcrumbs before baking for extra crunch.
Gluten-Free Option – Substitute all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, I keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, I pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm and crispy again.
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FAQs
How do I prevent the bites from spreading too much?
If the dough feels too soft, I chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before shaping the bites.
Can I freeze these cheese bites?
Yes! I freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for a couple of extra minutes.
What dips go well with these?
I love serving them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! I prepare the dough and shape the bites ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
How can I make them crispier?
For an even crispier texture, I bake them on the middle rack and let them cool completely before serving.
Conclusion
Golden Cheese Crunch Bites are the perfect cheesy, crispy snack that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether served as a party appetizer, a quick snack, or a fun side dish, they never disappoint. Try out different variations and enjoy these bites of cheesy goodness.
📖 Recipe:
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Golden Cheese Crunch Bites
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Golden Cheese Crunch Bites are crispy, cheesy snacks bursting with bold cheddar flavor and a touch of spice. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, snacking, or pairing with your favorite dips. Quick and easy to make, they deliver an irresistible crunch with every bite.
Ingredients
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp melted butter
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the dough – In a mixing bowl, combine cheddar cheese, flour, melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Shape the bites – Roll into small 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake – Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Cool and serve – Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra crispiness, bake on the middle rack and let cool completely before serving.
Make ahead: Prepare the dough and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked bites, then bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) with an additional 2-3 minutes of baking time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 bites
- Calories: 140 kcal
