A rustic stack of buttery shortbread cookies infused with sharp cheddar and fragrant rosemary. These golden, flaky rounds are rich and flavorful—perfect as a sophisticated snack, elegant appetizer, or a savory companion to wine, charcuterie, or a warm bowl of soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This savory twist on a classic shortbread offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture with bold, cheesy undertones and the aromatic hint of rosemary. The dough comes together easily and can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for entertaining or last-minute baking. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, these shortbread rounds are both impressive and effortless.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• unsalted butter, softened
• all-purpose flour
• salt
• ground black pepper
• garlic powder (optional)
• finely chopped fresh rosemary (or dried rosemary)
• sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• cold water (if needed)

directions

1. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and rosemary. Mix until just combined.
3. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and gently knead the mixture into a soft dough.
4. If the dough appears too crumbly, add 1 tablespoon of cold water and mix again.
5. Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on the prepared sheet.
8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely before serving or storing.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes approximately 24 shortbread rounds
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Bake time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for added heat.
• Different Cheese: Try using aged gouda, parmesan, or gruyère for alternative flavor profiles.
• Herb Swap: Replace rosemary with thyme, sage, or a blend of dried herbs for variety.
• Nutty Texture: Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchier bite.
• Mini Appetizers: Press dough into mini tart pans and bake as savory tartlet bases.

storage/reheating

Store the shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To refresh the texture, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, use one-third the amount of dried rosemary in place of fresh for a similar flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for a month before baking.

How do I slice the dough cleanly?

Use a sharp knife, and if the dough is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by half to avoid oversalting.

Why is my dough too crumbly?

This can happen depending on the flour or cheese used. Add a tablespoon of cold water to bring it together.

Can I roll out the dough and use cookie cutters?

Yes, you can roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and cut shapes instead of slicing rounds.

Are these shortbreads suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes, freeze the cooled baked shortbreads in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Can I omit the garlic powder?

Yes, the garlic powder is optional and can be left out without affecting the texture.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but aged cheddar or a cheddar blend also works well.

Do these pair well with drinks?

Yes, they are excellent with wine (especially red or white cheddar-friendly wines), beer, or cocktails.

Conclusion

Savory Cheddar Rosemary Shortbread is a deliciously rich and aromatic snack that combines the comfort of buttery cookies with the boldness of cheese and herbs. Simple to make and elegant to serve, this versatile recipe is perfect for gatherings, gifting, or elevating your everyday snacking experience.

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