Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 8 oz (225g) extra sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1 tsp (6g) salt
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) smoked paprika
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) ice-cold water
  • 1 egg (50g), beaten
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) water
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) coarse sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Pulse the flour, salt, and paprika in a food processor. Add the chilled butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
  2. Stir in the finely grated cheddar until the cheese is evenly distributed.
  3. Gradually add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just clings together.
  4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
  5. Wrap in plastic and place in the freezer for 15-20 minutes (or fridge for 30) to firm the butter.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a pizza cutter to slice the dough into small, uniform squares.
  7. Arrange squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are mahogany-colored and the centers are firm.