RECIPE: Cheesey Delights

By: Dorothy Kirk, Food Editor, “Woman’s Home Companion” 1945

This recipe is one of dozens of canapés and appetizers featured in the midcentury cookbooks of the time. These cheese delights lived up to their name, with almost no modifications needed from the original recipe. You can find Kraft Old English Cheese Spread in most grocery stores.

INGREDIENTS

4 ounces Kraft Old English Cheese Spread, at room temperature

4 tablespoons butter, softened

½ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon kosher salt

Smoked paprika

Flaky sea salt

METHOD

Using a hand mixer or a small whisk, cream together the cheese and butter until fully combined. Room-temperature cheese and butter will help these blend together. Blend in flour and salt until a dough forms. If needed, use hands to knead into a soft dough. Once the dough comes together, pinch off small chunks and form into small balls the size of marbles. Chill for 5–10 minutes in the refrigerator.

After the balls are chilled, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten down with the tines of a fork to make a waffle design; sprinkle lightly with paprika and flaky salt; chill for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. Prepared cheese delights can stay ready to bake in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

When ready to bake, preheat oven to 450°F. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until slightly puffed and browned. Serve warm or at room temperature.