These Southern cheese pennies are one of those wonderfully old-school party snacks that prove simple really can be best. They bake up crisp, buttery, and deeply cheesy with just three ingredients, which makes them perfect for holidays, tailgates, cookie swaps, and those last-minute potluck moments when you need something dependable fast. I love recipes like this on busy weeks because they feel a little nostalgic and a little fancy, yet they come together with almost no effort.
Serve these crisp little bites alongside deviled eggs, ham biscuits, olives, pickles, or a big vegetable tray for a classic party spread. They’re also great next to a bowl of chili, tomato soup, or chicken salad for a salty, cheesy crunch, and they pair especially well with sweet tea, lemonade, or a simple sparkling drink at a cookout.
Southern 3-Ingredient Golden Cheese Pennies
Servings: About 48 cheese pennies
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup salted butter, softened
2 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, work together the flour, softened butter, and shredded cheddar until a stiff dough forms. If it seems crumbly at first, keep pressing and mixing until it comes together.
3. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
4. Flatten each ball gently with the bottom of a glass or your fingertips to make small rounds.
5. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and golden brown.
6. Let the cheese pennies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a rack or serving tray. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Variations & Tips
Make-ahead dough: Roll the dough into balls a day ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This is one of my favorite tricks when I’m juggling work and bringing something to a family get-together.
Cheese choice: Sharp cheddar gives the best classic flavor, but extra-sharp cheddar makes these even bolder. Finely shredding your own cheese usually helps the dough come together better and gives a crisper texture.
Keep them uniform: A small cookie scoop helps make all the rounds the same size so they bake evenly. If some are larger than others, the little ones may brown too quickly.
Storage tip: Once completely cooled, store the cheese pennies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To freshen them up, warm them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes before serving.
Gluten-free option: Use a measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend if you need an easy substitution. The dough may be slightly more delicate, so press it together gently when shaping.