Southern Cheese Shortbread Crackers

This recipe came about as an improvisation on the classic Southern cheese straw. The final product was crisp and cheesy with just enough spice. They would be the perfect accompaniment to a Bloody Mary or a dirty martini.

Or, quite frankly, any other cocktail you have in mind.

Southern Cheese Shortbread Crackers
Makes about 4 dozen crackers.

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or up to 1 teaspoon if you want a real kick)
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Combine all the ingredients in a food processor and process until a smooth dough is formed.

Wrap in waxed paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 1/4 inch thick rectangle. Cut into 1 inch by 3 inch crackers and place on a cookie sheet coated with cooking spray.

Bake for 15-20 minutes in a 300° F oven. For more even browning, turn over halfway through baking.