Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) Gouda cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) cream cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) blue cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) smoked Gouda, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) Havarti cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) Swiss cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) Monterey Jack cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 packages (4 ounces each) round crackers
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine all of the cheeses, butter, parsley, chives, thyme, rosemary, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Place a cracker on the prepared baking sheet. Top with 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture. Place another cracker on top and press down lightly.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crackers are golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes 24 bites
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Gouda cheese: any semi-hard cheese such as cheddar, Gruyere, or Colby
- Sharp cheddar cheese: any sharp cheese such as aged Gouda or Parmesan
- Cream cheese: ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
- Blue cheese: feta cheese or goat cheese
- Smoked Gouda: any smoked cheese such as smoked cheddar or smoked mozzarella
- Havarti cheese: any mild cheese such as Monterey Jack or Muenster
- Swiss cheese: any mild cheese such as Gruyere or Emmental
- Monterey Jack cheese: any mild cheese such as Havarti or Muenster
- Mozzarella cheese: any mild cheese such as provolone or Fontina
- Butter: olive oil or coconut oil
- Fresh herbs: dried herbs or Italian seasoning
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of cooked bacon or sausage for a savory twist.
- Add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet twist.
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts for a crunchy twist.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a crispier bite, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- For a creamier bite, add an additional tablespoon of cream cheese.
- For a spicier bite, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
Storage Instructions:
Gouda and Cracker Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Gouda and Cracker Bites can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Gouda and Cracker Bites can be served on a platter with a variety of crackers and fresh vegetables.
Garnishes:
Gouda and Cracker Bites can be garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, thyme, rosemary, and oregano.
Pairings:
Gouda and Cracker Bites pair well with a variety of wines, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Gouda and Cracker Bites can be served with a side of fresh fruit, such as grapes, strawberries, or melon.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cheese is not melting, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Food Safety Advice:
It is important to store Gouda and Cracker Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator and to consume within 5 days.
Food History:
Gouda cheese is a Dutch cheese that has been around since the 12th century. It is named after the city of Gouda in the Netherlands.
Flavor Profiles:
Gouda and Cracker Bites have a creamy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Gouda and Cracker Bites can be served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
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Region: Dutch