If you’re looking for an easy snack that comes together with almost no effort, these Southern 3-Ingredient Crispy Parmesan Pennies are a must-try. Made with buttery round crackers, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter, this simple recipe turns everyday pantry staples into an irresistibly crispy, cheesy snack.
The crackers bake until golden and crunchy, while the Parmesan melts into the buttery coating, creating a savory flavor that makes it surprisingly hard to eat just one. They’re perfect for afternoon snacking, holiday gatherings, game days, parties, or whenever you need a quick bite to put on the table.
The best part? You only need three ingredients.
Why You’ll Love These Parmesan Pennies
There’s a lot to love about such a simple recipe.
Only 3 ingredients: No complicated shopping list or specialty ingredients.
Quick and easy: The preparation takes only a few minutes.
Buttery and cheesy: Parmesan and butter give the crackers an incredible savory flavor.
Crispy texture: Baking transforms the crackers into crunchy little bites.
Perfect for entertaining: They’re easy to make in a large batch for parties and gatherings.
Budget-friendly: You can make a delicious snack using inexpensive pantry staples.
Ingredients
Buttery Round Crackers
Use one sleeve of buttery round crackers, such as Ritz. Their light, crisp texture makes them perfect for this recipe, and their buttery flavor pairs beautifully with Parmesan.
Try to keep the crackers intact when tossing them with the butter and cheese.
Parmesan Cheese
You’ll need ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Freshly grated Parmesan works beautifully, but pre-grated Parmesan can also be used for convenience.
The cheese sticks to the buttery crackers as they bake, creating a delicious savory coating.
Unsalted Butter
Four tablespoons of melted unsalted butter help the Parmesan adhere to the crackers while adding richness and a golden, buttery finish.
Using unsalted butter also gives you more control over the saltiness because the crackers and Parmesan already contain salt.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Pennies
1. Prepare the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
2. Melt the butter
Place the butter in a small microwave-safe bowl and melt it until smooth.
Allow it to cool slightly so it isn’t extremely hot when mixed with the crackers.
3. Coat the crackers
Place the buttery round crackers in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle the melted butter over them and gently toss until the crackers are lightly coated.
Be careful not to stir too aggressively, since the crackers can break.
4. Add the Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the butter-coated crackers.
Gently toss again until the cheese is distributed as evenly as possible.
You want each cracker to have a little buttery Parmesan coating.
5. Arrange on the baking sheet
Spread the crackers out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Try not to overcrowd them. A little space between the crackers allows the hot air to circulate and helps them become evenly crisp.
6. Bake
Bake for approximately 10–15 minutes, keeping a close eye on them toward the end.
The crackers should become golden and crispy, and the Parmesan should be lightly browned.
Because ovens vary, start checking them early to prevent the cheese from burning.
7. Cool and serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the Parmesan pennies to cool for several minutes.
They will become even crispier as they cool.
Transfer them to a serving bowl and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Pennies
Toss gently
Buttery round crackers can break easily. Use a large bowl and gently fold the ingredients together instead of aggressively stirring.
Don’t overcrowd the pan
Arrange the crackers in one layer. If you’re making a larger batch, use two baking sheets rather than piling the crackers on one.
Watch them closely
Parmesan can go from golden to overly browned quickly. Keep an eye on the crackers during the final few minutes.
Let them cool
Don’t worry if they aren’t extremely crisp immediately after coming out of the oven. They continue to firm up as they cool.
Easy Variations
Although the classic three-ingredient version is delicious on its own, you can easily customize these crackers.
For a little extra flavor, try adding:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Cracked black pepper
- Italian seasoning
- Cayenne pepper
- Dried parsley
- Ranch seasoning
A small amount of seasoning can completely change the flavor while keeping the recipe just as easy.
What to Serve With Parmesan Pennies
These crispy crackers are delicious on their own, but they also make a great addition to a snack board.
Serve them alongside:
- Cheese and cured meats
- Dips
- Hummus
- Ranch dip
- Spinach dip
- French onion dip
- Fresh vegetables
- Olives
- Pickles
They also make a wonderful crunchy topping for soups and salads.
Perfect for Parties and Holidays
One of the best things about these Parmesan pennies is how easy they are to prepare for a crowd.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, family party, baby shower, game night, or casual get-together, you can make a batch ahead of time and have a crispy snack ready to serve.
They look simple, but the combination of buttery crackers and salty Parmesan makes them incredibly addictive.
Can I Make These Ahead?
Yes!
These crackers are ideal for making ahead. Once they have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Keeping them sealed helps preserve their crispy texture.
Avoid storing them while they’re still warm, because trapped steam can make the crackers lose their crunch.
How Long Do They Last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the Parmesan pennies can stay crisp for several days.
For the best texture and flavor, enjoy them within a few days of baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but unsalted butter is recommended. The crackers and Parmesan already provide plenty of salt, so using unsalted butter makes it easier to control the final flavor.
Can I use freshly grated Parmesan?
Absolutely. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and gives the crackers a wonderful cheesy flavor.
Can I use another type of cracker?
Yes. While buttery round crackers are ideal for the classic recipe, you can experiment with other sturdy crackers. Keep in mind that different crackers may require slightly different baking times.
Why aren’t my crackers crispy?
Make sure they are spread in a single layer and baked until golden. Also, allow them to cool completely after baking. They become noticeably crispier as they cool.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. If you’re making a double batch, use multiple baking sheets so the crackers aren’t overcrowded.
A Simple Snack Everyone Will Love
These Southern 3-Ingredient Crispy Parmesan Pennies are proof that delicious snacks don’t have to be complicated.
With just buttery crackers, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter, you can create a crispy, golden snack that’s perfect for everything from everyday munching to holiday entertaining.
They’re quick to prepare, easy on the budget, and incredibly satisfying. Keep the ingredients on hand, and you’ll always have an easy homemade snack ready whenever cravings hit.
Sometimes the simplest recipes really are the ones everyone reaches for first.
Recipe Card
Southern 3-Ingredient Crispy Parmesan Pennies
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: About 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve buttery round crackers, such as Ritz
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Place the crackers in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the crackers and gently toss to coat.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the crackers and gently toss again.
- Arrange the crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Pro tip: For an extra-savory version, add a pinch of garlic powder and cracked black pepper before baking.