Homemade Cheez-Its

I have always enjoyed making meals for myself. When I got my first apartment Sophomore year of college, this consisted of tossing pasta with whatever ingredients were in my fridge. I can confidently say that I have come a long way from those days. Now I make homemade chicken pot pie, complicated side dishes, and mac and cheese from scratch. I would never think of going into the frozen foods section or buying something in a box. Crazy, right? My next adventure in the kitchen will consist of simple snacks. I plan on trying these super easy homemade Cheez-Its. If you attempt them first, please let me know how it goes in the comments!

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Ingredients:
8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, coarsely shredded
1/2stick unsalted butter, at room temperature (4 tablespoons)
1teaspoon kosher salt
2tablespoons ice water

Directions

  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix the cheese, butter, and salt. Add the flour and mix on low (dough will be pebbly). Slowly add the water and mix as the dough forms a ball.
  2. Pat the dough into a disk, wrap with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for an hour.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide the dough into two pieces and roll each into a very thin (1/8 inch or less) 10×12 inch rectangle. Using a fluted pastry cutter, cut the rectangles into 1-inch squares, then transfer them to the baking sheets.
  4. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes or until puffed and browning at the edges. Watch carefully, as the high fat content of the crackers makes a fine line between golden delicious and burnt. Immediately move the crackers to racks to cool.

Friday Night Drinks: Cherry Beer Margaritas

 

I discovered The Blond Cook a few weeks ago and have been experimenting with her recipes ever since. One of my recent favorites is a spin on the classic margarita. Last week, we talked about watermelon margaritas, and I’ve made them twice since then. Patio drinking just got a kick in the butt with this easy drink recipe.

 

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Prep Time: 5 Minutes

Total Time: 5 Minutes

Servings: 6

 

Ingredients:

  • (1) 12 ounce can frozen limeade concentrate
  • 12 ounces cherry flavored soda
  • (1) 12 ounce bottle of your favorite beer (I used Corona Light)
  • 12 ounces of your favorite tequila
  • Kosher salt, for rimming glass
  • Lime for garnish
  • Cherries for garnish

Directions:

  1. Rub lime wedge around rim of each glass; dip in kosher salt.
  2. In a large pitcher, mix all ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon to combine.
  3. Serve over ice (if desired) & garnish with a lime wedge & cherry.