She writes for a living and has her own business "Freelance Writers Wanted" where she showcases the work of both experienced and budding new writers. She is a proud wife and Mother of 5 kids, and a very excited Nanny to 2 grand-baby girls. Kerry is also in College studying Psychology. I've used this wonderful recipe for cheesy baked crackers on many occasions where my guests have arrived unexpectedly.
-Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
-Open a pack of puff pastry sheets, and sprinkle lightly with a mild mustard powder.
-Sprinkle generously with grated parmesan or romano cheese.
-Use your rolling pin to gently press the cheese into the pastry.
-Score into squares on a cookie sheet and bake until golden brown and slightly puffy.
-Note: the mustard is optional, however it greatly accents the flavor of the cheese.
Another option is to add sesame seeds for a hint of nutty flavor.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
Trace across the scored lines you had made before baking, the crackers will then separate and can be stored in airtight containers.
For the sweet tooth:
As well as these savory bites, you can opt for the sweet version by spreading preserves across the pastry when it is 3/4 cooked. Using the jam too soon will only allow it to burn and your crackers will be too soft.
The savory cheese crackers are a mouthwatering companion to grapes,walnuts and gourmet cheeses, served with a chilled white wine, and you may wish to spread them with peppered avocado.
Your children will love either version for a quick after school snack.
Pizza Bomb:
This recipe is a gourmet alternative to the Friday night pizza delivery. Each family member can add their favourite ingredient, and you can serve it from the oven directly to the table.
-Take a large loaf of bread and cut across the top 1/4 horizontally, reserving the 'lid' for later.
-Scoop out most of the insides and keep in an airtight jar for croutons or turkey stuffing.
-Spread the inside of the loaf with tomato paste or spaghetti sauce, then load the loaf with prosciutto, pepperoni, red or green peppers, onion, olives,mushrooms and cheese. Of course these may be varied according to individual tastes.
-Replace the lid to the loaf, cover with foil and set in a preheated 400 oven for 30 minutes.
Your loaf must also be sitting on a sheet of foil in order to obtain a crunchy underside.