Rachel Cookes Wonderful Parmesan Crackers

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350F.

2. 2

   Put the butter and flour into a food processor, together with the salt, cayenne pepper, mustard powder, and cheeses.

3. 3

   Briefly process all together to begin with, and then, finally, pulse the mixture in short spurts as you notice the mixture coming together-as pastry, if you like.

4. 4

   Once the texture is clearly clumpy, tip it all out onto a lightly floured counter and deftly, but thoroughly, knead it together until well blended and smooth.

5. 5

   Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

6. 6

   Gently roll out the pastry on a lightly floured counter to about an 1/8-inch thickness.

7. 7

   Using a 1 1/2 to 2-inch cookie cutter, cut out crackers the size you wish for, depending on the occasion.

8. 8

   Lay them out onto a greased baking tray about 3/4 inch apart; it may be necessary to bake them in 2 batches.

9. 9

   Carefully brush the surface of each cracker with beaten egg and sprinkle a little finely grated Parmesan over.

10. 10

    Bake in the oven for 10 minutes, or until a gorgeous, pale golden color is achieved; the superb smell will also inform you that they are ready.

11. 11

    Carefully lift off the tray using a spatula and place on a cooling rack.

12. 12

    Serve while still just warm, if possible.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.