Southern 4-Ingredient Cheese Pennies: The Easiest Savory Snack You’ll Make on Repeat

If you love the crisp, buttery charm of old-fashioned cheese crackers but want a snack that comes together with almost no effort, these Southern 4-Ingredient Cheese Pennies are exactly what you need. Golden, bite-sized cheese wafers packed with sharp cheddar and a tender, crumbly texture—this is the kind of simple Southern baking trick a practical home cook keeps in her apron pocket for holidays, gift giving, and last-minute company.

Whether you’re making a batch for a church supper, a holiday platter, or simply a savory snack on a cozy afternoon at home, this easy cheese penny recipe checks every box. It’s budget-friendly, uses just four everyday ingredients, and delivers a snack that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This 4-Ingredient Cheese Pennies Recipe

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or fancy equipment—just four everyday components and a few minutes of prep. The oven transforms basic ingredients into crisp, golden wafers that taste like a beloved Southern specialty.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve them with soup, arrange them on a party platter, or wrap them in pretty tins as homemade gifts. They keep well, travel beautifully, and disappear fast.

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, at room temperature

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a kick)

Optional add-ins: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and chopped pecans for the tops.

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and shredded cheddar together until smooth and creamy.

3. Add the flour, salt (or cayenne), and garlic powder and paprika if using, then mix until a soft dough forms.

4. Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball gently with a fork.

5. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pennies are golden at the edges.

6. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Ideas

These cheese pennies are lovely served with a bowl of tomato soup, arranged on a cheese board, or paired with a glass of wine for an easy appetizer. For a cozy snack plate, pair them with sliced apples and olives, or pack them into small tins as homemade hostess gifts.

Variations & Tips

• Cheese Tip: Sharp cheddar gives the boldest flavor, but a smoked cheddar or Gruyère makes a delicious swap.

• Dough Tip: If the dough feels too soft to roll, chill it for 15 minutes first.

• Add-Ins: A pinch of cayenne or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning adds extra flavor.

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week, or freeze baked pennies up to 3 months.

Conclusion: Southern 4-Ingredient Cheese Pennies

This is the sort of recipe that earns a permanent spot in the snack rotation—four ingredients, one bowl, and a crisp, buttery, cheesy wafer that tastes like you fussed far more than you did. The sharp cheddar and tender crumb make them special enough for a holiday gathering yet easy enough for an ordinary afternoon, and because they come together in minutes, you get to enjoy the compliments without the fuss. Keep them in your apron pocket for church suppers, hostess gifts, and cozy weekends—and enjoy the fact that they stay fresh and delicious for days.