Ingredients
1/4 tsp cayenne
1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
2 cups grated extra-old orange cheddar cheese (250g)
3or4 tbsp ice-col water
1/4 cup black sesame seeds or poppy seeds
1 c flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
Preparation
Place flour, baking powder, salt and cayenne in a food processor fitted with a metal blade. Whirl until combined. Add butter and cheese and pulse until evenly combined and mixture resembles coarse rumbs. Pulsing machine, drizzle in 3 tbsp cold water. Dough should begin to clump together (be patient). If not, add remaining tbsp of water.
Gather dough and shape into a log, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Spread poppy seeds on waxed paper. Roll log in poppy seeds to thoroughly coat. Wrap log in plastic wrap and refrigerate until very firm, at least 4 hours but preferable overnight.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray
Quickly slice log into 1/4 inch slices. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven until a golden orange colour, about 9-12 minutes. Cool completely on wire rack.
makes approx 4 dozen cookies.
