Spicy Cheese Crisps

Yummy, yummy in my tummy!  I first had these at my aunt's bridal shower.  My sweet Nana copied down the recipe from the host's cookbook because we liked them so much!  I made this batch for my friend's baby shower (hence the little green frog about to dive into the fruit plate).  My husband didn't care for them as much, but I think the buttery crunch with a little kick makes the perfect savory bite.


1 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
3 cups crisp rice cereal


In a mixing bowl, cream the butter until fluffy. Slowly mix in the flour, salt and cayenne pepper. Stir in cheese and cereal.

Shape into 1-1/2-in. balls the flatten slightly with the palms of your hands.  Place on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350F for 15-17 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve warm or cold.