Southern Cheddar Tallulah Squares
These Southern 3-ingredient cheddar Tallulah squares bring old-fashioned comfort to the table with almost no effort. Inspired by a handwritten family recipe from 1968, these golden, cheesy squares are made with self-rising flour, sharp cheddar cheese, and heavy cream.
With crisp, browned edges and a tender, buttery-tasting center, these easy cheddar cheese squares are perfect for family reunions, potlucks, holiday gatherings, game-day snacks, or a simple afternoon treat. No complicated ingredients or lengthy preparation are needed—just mix, press, bake, and enjoy.
If you love easy Southern recipes, vintage family favorites, and homemade cheese appetizers, this three-ingredient recipe deserves a place in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Makes 12 squares
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with foil and lightly grease it.
- Combine the flour and cheese. In a medium bowl, stir the self-rising flour and shredded cheddar together until the cheese is evenly coated.
- Add the cream. Pour in the heavy cream and mix until a thick, sticky dough forms. Make sure no dry flour remains.
- Press into the pan. Transfer the dough to the prepared pan. Spread and press it into an even layer using the back of a spoon or lightly floured fingers.
- Bake until golden. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are nicely browned.
- Cool and cut. Let the pan rest for about 10 minutes. Lift out the baked dough, cut it into 12 squares, and serve warm.
Benefits of This Easy Cheddar Recipe
Only three ingredients: This simple recipe keeps your shopping list short and uses familiar kitchen staples.
Quick preparation: There is no yeast, rising time, or complicated dough preparation. Mix the ingredients, spread the dough, and let the oven do the work.
Perfect for sharing: Twelve bite-sized squares make a convenient snack or appetizer for potlucks, reunions, holiday parties, and family dinners.
Rich, comforting cheese flavor: Sharp cheddar gives each square a satisfying savory taste, while heavy cream helps create a tender texture.
Versatile serving options: Serve these cheesy squares with tomato soup, chili, a green salad, pickles, or pepper jelly. They also make a tasty addition to a Southern-style appetizer spread.
Tips for the Best Cheddar Squares
- Use extra-sharp cheddar for a stronger, more pronounced cheese flavor.
- For a milder version, substitute mild cheddar.
- Avoid overmixing the dough; mix just until everything comes together.
- Let the squares rest before cutting so they hold their shape more neatly.
- For extra richness, brush the warm top with a little melted butter.
- Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to help restore the crisp edges.
