BIRD CAGE WAFERS

Cheese wafers are an essential staple throughout the South. Everyone has his or her own special recipe. Here is my favorite which is to be savored at every bite.

8 oz. crumbled bleu cheese, softened
1 stick butter, softened
1 1/3 cups flour
1/4 cup poppy seeds
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Beat the bleu cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Add the flour, poppy seeds and cayenne. Beat until a soft dough forms. Shape into a log 2-inches in diameter on a sheet of plastic wrap. Wrap in the plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours. Cut the log into slices 1/8-inch thick. Place on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 325 degrees for 25 minutes or until crisp. Remove to wire rack or dishtowel to cool.
Yield: 4 dozen


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