Cheese Crisps: How Long Do They Stay Fresh?

Baked cheese crisps are a popular snack for those on a keto, low-carb, grain-free, or gluten-free diet. They are made with shredded cheese, typically cheddar, parmesan, or asiago, and baked in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown. The crisps can be seasoned with herbs and spices, such as chili powder, garlic, or basil, and can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh, as they tend to lose their crispness over time.

How to store cheese crisps

Baked cheese crisps are a delicious snack, but they can get soggy if not stored properly. Here are some tips to keep your cheese crisps crunchy and fresh:

Storing Cheese Crisps in the Short Term

• Container – Use an airtight container to protect the crisps from moisture and other contaminants.
• Location – Keep the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. The refrigerator is ideal, providing a consistent temperature and preventing staleness. However, refrigeration may introduce unwanted moisture, so some prefer to store them at room temperature.
• Duration – Homemade cheese crisps can be stored this way for up to a week, while store-bought crisps with preservatives last a bit longer.

Storing Cheese Crisps for the Long Term

• Container – Use an airtight container or a sealed bag with as much air removed as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Location – The freezer is the best option for long-term storage.
• Duration – Cheese crisps can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, although it's a good idea to check periodically for quality.

Tips to Keep Cheese Crisps Crispy

• Prevent Sogginess – Control moisture exposure by using an airtight container. Consider adding a desiccant packet to absorb excess moisture.
• Maintain Crispiness – Store at room temperature to maintain the optimal crispy texture. Refrigeration may affect the texture, making the crisps chewy instead of crunchy.

How long do they last?

Baked cheese crisps are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for a few days. They are likely to lose their crispiness over time, so it is recommended to eat them within a couple of days.

Some people suggest storing them in an airtight container at room temperature, while others recommend refrigeration. One source suggests that refrigeration may affect the texture.

If you are storing them, it is recommended to use paper towels to absorb any excess moisture and keep them crisp.

What are the best cheeses to use?

The best cheeses to use for baked cheese crisps are hard, aged, or "mature" cheeses with a low moisture content. Some examples include:

• Parmesan
• Cheddar
• Monterey Jack
• Gruyere
• Asiago
• Manchego
• Aged cheddars

Can you add other ingredients?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to your baked cheese crisps. In fact, many recipes recommend adding herbs and spices to your cheese mixture to give it a little extra kick.

Some popular additions include:

• Chilli powder
• Cumin
• Garlic
• Rosemary
• Basil
• Taco seasoning
• Ranch dressing mix
• Everything bagel seasoning
• Sour cream and onion popcorn seasoning
• Salt and vinegar seasoning
• Jalapeno
• Lime zest
• Taco seasoning

You can also add ingredients to your cheese mixture to make it more like a meal. For example, you could add pepperoni slices to your cheese mixture to make pizza-flavoured crisps.

How to cook them

How to Cook Baked Cheese Crisps

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of grated hard cheese (such as Parmesan, Cheddar, or Mexican blend)
• Parchment paper
• Seasonings of your choice (optional)

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• If using seasonings, mix them with the grated cheese in a bowl.
• Form the cheese into small mounds or thin circles on the parchment paper, leaving space between them as they will spread during baking.
• Bake in the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and lacy.
• Allow the cheese crisps to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Do not use foil or cooking spray instead of parchment paper, as the cheese will stick to the baking sheet.
• Experiment with different types of cheese and seasonings to find your favorite combinations.
• For a variation, try draping the warm cheese crisps over an upturned glass to form little cups that can be filled with salsa, guacamole, or other dips.

Frequently asked questions