Italian Parmesan Cookies are salty cookies with Parmesan cheese and herbs. Parmesan cookies are a delicious snack, that is loved by Italians but not only! These cookies are similar to homemade cheese crackers or savory biscuits that are full of cheesy and herb flavors! They are perfect with soups, stews or simply as a snack.
Why I Love This Italian Parmesan Cookies Recipe?
I love this recipe for these Parmesan Cookies because it’s quick and easy to make. And the best thing is that the results are always very impressive. The Parmesan and herbs make a delicious snack that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
The first time I made these they disappeared faster than I expected! Now, they’re my go to recipe when i am having guests over. They are always a hit at parties. I love to serve them alongside of Italian Tomato Bruschetta!
Key Ingredients
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for maximum flavor and texture. It melts beautifully and adds a nutty, savory taste to the cookies. I also like to make them with a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano, for an even more intense flavor!
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cookies, ensuring they hold their shape. I recommend sifting the flour before using, to avoid any lumps.
- Butter: Unsalted butter gives the cookies a rich, buttery flavor and a tender crumb. I love to use a premium grade butter that i find on farmers markets.
- Herbs: A mix of dried herbs like rosemary, oregano, thyme, and chives adds depth of flavor and an aromatic touch.
- Egg: Used for the egg wash to give the cookies a beautiful golden-brown finish.
How to Store?
Have you got any leftovers? Store the Parmesan Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. These cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
How to Serve Savory Cookies?
Serve Savory Parmesan Cookies as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. They pair very well with soups, stews or even a charcuterie board. These cookies are also great on their own as a quick and easy snack. For a more elegant presentation, top them with a sprinkle of extra herbs or seeds before baking.
Expert Tips
Grating Parmesan: For the best flavor I recommend that you grate your own Parmesan cheese instead of using pre grated cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has the best taste.
Mixing Herbs: Experiment with different herbs to find your favorite combination. Rosemary, oregano, thyme, and chives work very well together, but you can also try parsley, savory, or tarragon.
No Chilling Needed: This recipe requires no chilling time. It is a quick and easy option for last minute appetizers or snacks.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they are baking. They should be golden brown and slightly crisp around the edges. Overbaking can make them too hard.
Storage: To maintain their crispness, store the cookies in an airtight container. If they become soft, you can make them crispy again by putting them in a preheated oven for a few minutes.
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Cheeses: Try using different hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure the blend is suitable for baking.
- Seeds: Add a mix of seeds like poppy, sesame, or chia to the dough or sprinkle on top for extra texture and flavor.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dough for a spicy kick.
- Herb Butter: Use herb-infused butter for an even more intense herb flavor.
Savory Italian Parmesan Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Savory Parmesan Cookies are quick and easy bite-sized treats made with Parmesan cheese and a blend of herbs. Perfect for appetizers or snacks, these cookies are ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (rosemary, oregano, thyme, chives)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, grated Parmesan, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the cookies with the beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and crisp around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For extra flavor, sprinkle additional herbs or seeds on top of the cookies before baking.
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 3g
Nutrition information
This website gives estimated nutritional information, which might change depending on the ingredients used.
FAQ
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan will give you a better flavor and texture.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Bake the cookies when needed.
Can I use different herbs?
Absolutely, you can experiment with different herbs to find your favorite combination.
