Grate the cheese yourself, because pre-shredded is dusted with anti-caking starch that stops it melting into a clean lace. Space the mounds well apart so they spread into thin rounds without fusing, and let them sit on the hot sheet for two minutes after baking, since they are floppy out of the oven and only crisp as they cool.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep5 min
Cook7 min
Makes12 crisps
CuisineItalian
Cost$
VegetarianGluten-free
Contains dairy
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for12crisps
Aged cheddar
A firm, dry aged cheddar melts into a lace that crisps hard; grate it fresh.
Grate freshGrate both cheeses on the fine side of a box grater and toss them together. Skip the bagged shreds; the starch on them keeps the crisps from setting.
Mound and spaceDrop tablespoon mounds on a silicone mat, spaced two inches apart, and pat each into a flat round. They spread as they melt.
Bake to laceBake at 400F for 5 to 7 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers are lacy and bubbling.
Cool to setLet them sit on the sheet for two minutes before moving them. They are floppy hot and turn crisp only as they cool.
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze Cheese Crisps? — Not ideal
You can, but the crisp coating softens. Freeze the cooked pieces, then re-crisp them in a hot oven or air fryer — never the microwave.
Can you make Cheese Crisps ahead of time? — Prep ahead
Best fried to order — the crunch fades if it sits. Do the breading or shaping ahead and cook it fresh when you serve.
Is Cheese Crisps gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Cheese Crisps vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
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