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Easy Parmesan Cheddar & Basil Bites

Remember those perfect little bites that just melt in your mouth? Get ready, because you're about to make them yourself! These Parmesan Cheddar Basil Bites are ridiculously easy, super quick, and honestly, they disappear faster than you can bake them. They're the kind of snack you'll want to whip up for unexpected guests, pack for a picnic, or just hoard all to yourself while you watch a movie.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 13 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 cups shredded Cheddar cheese shredded from a block or pre-shredded, sharp or medium
  • 0.5 cup softened butter softened, not melted
  • 5 tbsp half-and-half milk or light cream could work
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese finely grated
  • 3 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Rolling Pin
  • Cookie cutters
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven and get your baking sheets ready, preferably lining them with parchment paper.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer with paddle attachment), add the shredded Cheddar cheese, softened butter, half-and-half, and kosher salt. Beat together on medium speed until well combined and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  3. Step 3: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh, chopped basil. Beat just until the dough comes together into a cohesive ball. Do not overwork.
  4. Step 4: Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Divide the dough into 3 equal portions.
  5. Step 5: Take one portion of dough and roll it out using a rolling pin to about ⅛ inch thickness, keeping the thickness consistent.
  6. Step 6: Use a star-shaped cutter (or any shape) to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Press the cutter firmly.
  7. Step 7: Carefully lift the cut-out shapes and place them about 1 inch apart on your prepared baking sheets. Gather scraps, press gently together, and re-roll to cut more shapes.
  8. Step 8: Bake for 11-14 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges and on the bottom. Keep a close eye as baking time varies.
  9. Step 9: Carefully remove baking sheets from the oven. Let the bites cool on the hot baking sheets for at least 30 minutes, preferably on a wire rack, to firm up before handling.

Notes

These bites are best enjoyed fresh. Once completely cooled, store the baked bites in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen bites at room temperature or reheat briefly in a 250°F oven to crisp.
You can make the dough 1-2 days in advance; wrap tightly and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temp for 15-20 mins before rolling. You can also cut and freeze shapes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the time.