Parmesan Bunny Ears

Easter at our house is always a flurry of egg hunts, pastel decorations, and of course, delicious food! This year, I wanted to try something a little different for our appetizer spread, something fun and festive that would appeal to both the kids and adults. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of Parmesan Bunny Ears. Let me tell you, these little cheesy delights were an absolute hit! The kids couldn’t stop munching on them, declaring them “super crunchy bunny ears,” and the adults appreciated the savory, sophisticated flavor. They were incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients, and the cute bunny ear shape was just perfect for the holiday. The best part? They were gone in minutes! If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, adorable, and utterly delicious Easter appetizer, look no further than these Parmesan Bunny Ears. They’re guaranteed to hop their way into everyone’s hearts (and stomachs!).

Ingredients

This recipe is delightfully simple, requiring minimal ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. The star of the show is, of course, Parmesan cheese, which crisps up beautifully in the oven to create these savory and whimsical treats.

• Parmesan Cheese: 2 cups, finely grated. Use good quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting properties. Pre-grated is convenient, but freshly grated Parmesan will melt more smoothly and have a richer taste.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. This adds a subtle herbaceous and savory note that complements the Parmesan perfectly. You can adjust the amount to your preference or use other seasonings if desired.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground. A touch of black pepper enhances the flavor profile and provides a subtle spice that balances the richness of the cheese. Freshly ground pepper is recommended for the best aroma.
• Optional: Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. For those who love a hint of garlic, garlic powder adds a warm and savory depth of flavor to the bunny ears. It’s a subtle addition that elevates the overall taste.

Instructions

Making Parmesan Bunny Ears is surprisingly easy and quick, making it a perfect recipe for busy holiday preparations or even a fun activity to do with kids. Here’s a step-by-step guide to create these adorable and delicious treats:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the Parmesan cheese to a crispy perfection without burning. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Parchment paper ensures that the bunny ears won’t stick to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup. Silicone mats are reusable and provide even heat distribution.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the finely grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly distributed throughout the cheese. This ensures that every bunny ear will be flavorful and well-seasoned. Using your hands to toss the ingredients can be the most effective way to ensure even distribution.
3. Shape the Bunny Ears on Baking Sheets: Now comes the fun part – shaping the bunny ears! Take approximately 1 tablespoon of the Parmesan cheese mixture and place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Using your fingers or the back of a spoon, gently spread the cheese into an elongated oval shape, roughly resembling a bunny ear. Aim for ears that are about 3-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide at the widest point. Repeat this process, spacing the bunny ears about 1-2 inches apart on the baking sheet. This spacing is important to allow for even baking and to prevent the ears from sticking together as they melt and spread slightly. You can make the ears slightly thicker for a sturdier crisp, or thinner for a more delicate, lace-like texture, depending on your preference.
4. Bake Until Golden and Crispy: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the Parmesan bunny ears are melted, golden brown around the edges, and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the cheese. The edges should be nicely browned and the centers should be set but not burnt. If you want them extra crispy, you can bake them for a minute or two longer, but be careful not to let them burn.
5. Cool Completely on Baking Sheets: Once the bunny ears are baked to a golden crisp, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheets. This is crucial for them to crisp up properly. As they cool, they will harden and become easier to handle. Resist the urge to move them while they are still warm, as they will be delicate and can break easily. Allow at least 10-15 minutes for them to cool and firm up completely.
6. Carefully Remove and Serve: Once completely cooled and firm, carefully peel the Parmesan bunny ears off the parchment paper or silicone mat. They should lift off easily. If any are sticking slightly, use a thin spatula to gently loosen them. Arrange the Parmesan Bunny Ears on a serving platter and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, although they may lose some of their crispness over time.

Nutrition Facts

Parmesan Bunny Ears are a delightful and relatively light snack, especially considering they are made primarily from cheese. Here’s a general nutritional overview per serving (approximately 2-3 bunny ears, depending on size):

• Servings: Approximately 20-24 bunny ears (recipe yield may vary slightly based on size).
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 80-100 calories. This is an estimated value and can vary based on the exact amount of cheese used per bunny ear.
• Protein: 6-8 grams per serving. Parmesan cheese is a good source of protein, contributing to satiety and muscle building.
• Fat: 6-8 grams per serving. Primarily from the Parmesan cheese, which includes both saturated and unsaturated fats.
• Calcium: High in calcium. Parmesan cheese is an excellent source of calcium, essential for bone health and various bodily functions. A serving can provide a significant portion of your daily recommended calcium intake.
• Sodium: Moderate sodium content. Parmesan cheese is naturally salty, so these bunny ears will contain a moderate amount of sodium. Be mindful of sodium intake if you are on a low-sodium diet.

Note: These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving sizes. For more precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

Parmesan Bunny Ears are a fantastic choice when you need a quick and impressive appetizer or snack. The preparation time is minimal, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings or when you’re short on time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes. This includes the time to grate the Parmesan cheese (if using a block), measure out the seasonings, and mix the ingredients together. Shaping the bunny ears on the baking sheet is also included in this prep time.
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes. The baking time is relatively short, allowing the cheese to melt and crisp up quickly in the oven.
• Cooling Time: 15 minutes. Allowing the bunny ears to cool completely on the baking sheets is essential for them to achieve their crispy texture.
• Total Time: Approximately 33-35 minutes. From start to finish, you can have a batch of delicious and adorable Parmesan Bunny Ears ready to serve in just over half an hour. This quick turnaround time makes them a perfect choice for spontaneous gatherings or when you’re craving a cheesy, crunchy snack without a lot of effort.

How to Serve

Parmesan Bunny Ears are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to elevate your appetizer spread or snack time. Their charming bunny ear shape makes them especially perfect for Easter, but they are delicious and fun to serve year-round.

Here are some creative and delicious serving suggestions:

• As an Appetizer:
  • Standalone Snack: Simply arrange them on a platter and let guests enjoy them as a crispy, cheesy snack on their own. They are delicious as is and require no accompaniment to be enjoyed.
  • Dipping Platter: Serve them alongside a selection of dips for a more interactive appetizer experience. Consider:
    • Marinara Sauce: Classic and always a crowd-pleaser, the acidity of marinara complements the richness of the Parmesan.
    • Ranch Dressing: A creamy and cool option that contrasts nicely with the savory bunny ears.
    • Pesto: Adds an herbaceous and vibrant flavor dimension.
    • Hummus: Provides a healthy and flavorful dip, offering a different texture and taste profile.
    • Spicy Aioli: For those who like a kick, a spicy aioli adds a creamy and zesty element.
• As a Garnish:
  • Salads: Crumble them over salads to add a crispy, cheesy crunch and a burst of flavor. They work particularly well with Caesar salads, spring salads, or any salad with Italian-inspired flavors.
  • Soups: Float a few bunny ears on top of creamy soups like tomato soup, asparagus soup, or potato soup for added texture and visual appeal.
  • Pasta Dishes: Use them as a garnish for pasta dishes like spaghetti with marinara, lasagna, or creamy Alfredo pasta. They add a fun and edible decoration.
  • Charcuterie Boards: Incorporate them into your charcuterie boards alongside cheeses, cured meats, olives, and crackers for a unique and unexpected element. Their playful shape and savory flavor make them a standout addition.
• Kid-Friendly Serving Ideas:
  • Easter Baskets: Tuck a few Parmesan Bunny Ears into Easter baskets as a savory treat among the candies and chocolates.
  • Lunchboxes: Pack them in lunchboxes as a fun and healthy snack alternative to chips or crackers.
  • Themed Plates: Arrange them on plates to create bunny-themed food art for kids’ parties or Easter gatherings. You can use them to decorate plates with other bunny-shaped foods like carrot sticks and cucumber slices.

Additional Tips for Perfect Parmesan Bunny Ears

To ensure your Parmesan Bunny Ears are a resounding success, here are eight helpful tips and tricks to keep in mind:

1. Use Finely Grated Parmesan: Finely grated Parmesan cheese is crucial for this recipe. It melts more evenly and creates a smoother, crispier texture compared to coarsely grated or shredded Parmesan. If you are grating your own cheese, use the fine side of a box grater or a microplane.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give the bunny ears ample space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of crisp, and they may stick together as they melt. Aim for at least 1-2 inches of space between each bunny ear. Baking in batches if necessary is better than overcrowding.
3. Line Baking Sheets with Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Lining your baking sheets is essential to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the delicate bunny ears. Parchment paper and silicone mats both work effectively. This also makes cleanup a breeze.
4. Monitor Baking Time Closely: Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the cheese. Start checking for doneness around 8 minutes and continue baking until they are golden brown and crispy. Watch them closely in the last few minutes to prevent burning, especially around the edges.
5. Experiment with Seasonings: While Italian seasoning and black pepper are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other seasonings to customize the flavor. Try:
   • Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
   • Smoked Paprika: For a smoky flavor.
   • Dried Herbs: Such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary.
   • Onion Powder: For a savory onion flavor.
   • Everything Bagel Seasoning: For a flavorful and textured coating.
6. Make Different Sizes and Shapes: Get creative with the shapes! While bunny ears are perfect for Easter, you can make other shapes for different occasions or just for fun. Try making mini bunny ears, longer ears, or even different animal shapes using cookie cutters or freehand shaping. You can also vary the size depending on how you plan to serve them.
7. Ensure Cheese is Evenly Distributed: When shaping the bunny ears, make sure the cheese is spread evenly in each shape. This will ensure consistent baking and crispness throughout each piece. Avoid clumps of cheese in some areas and thin spots in others.
8. Cool Completely for Maximum Crispness: Patience is key! Let the Parmesan Bunny Ears cool completely on the baking sheets before attempting to remove them. This cooling process is crucial for them to fully crisp up and become sturdy enough to handle without breaking. They will continue to crisp as they cool.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Parmesan Bunny Ears to help you troubleshoot and achieve perfect results:

Q1: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
A: While freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best flavor and melting properties, you can use pre-shredded Parmesan for convenience. However, be aware that pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can sometimes affect melting and crispness slightly. Freshly grated will generally yield a superior result.

Q2: My bunny ears are not crispy, what did I do wrong?
A: Several factors can contribute to bunny ears that are not crispy. Ensure you are using finely grated Parmesan and not overcrowding the baking sheet. Also, make sure they are baked until golden brown and allowed to cool completely on the baking sheet. If they are still not crispy, you can try baking them for a minute or two longer, being careful not to burn them. Storing them in an airtight container once cooled will help maintain crispness.

Q3: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Parmesan Bunny Ears are best enjoyed fresh and crispy. However, you can make them up to a day ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They may lose some of their crispness over time, but you can try briefly reheating them in a low oven (around 250°F/120°C) for a few minutes to crisp them up again, but watch them carefully to prevent burning.

Q4: Can I freeze Parmesan Bunny Ears?
A: Freezing is not recommended as it can significantly affect the texture and crispness of the bunny ears. They are best made fresh or stored at room temperature for a short period.

Q5: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: While Parmesan is the star of this recipe for its flavor and crisping ability, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. Softer cheeses will not crisp up in the same way. A blend of Parmesan and another hard cheese could also be interesting to try.

Q6: How do I prevent the bunny ears from sticking to the baking sheet?
A: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat is the best way to prevent sticking. Ensure the lining is properly placed and covers the entire baking surface. Avoid baking directly on an ungreased baking sheet.

Q7: Can I add other flavors besides Italian seasoning and garlic powder?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. As mentioned in the tips, you can try red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, dried herbs, onion powder, or even Everything Bagel seasoning. Consider flavors that complement Parmesan cheese and your serving preferences.

Q8: Are Parmesan Bunny Ears gluten-free and keto-friendly?
A: Yes, Parmesan Bunny Ears are naturally gluten-free as they are made primarily from cheese and seasonings. They are also generally considered keto-friendly due to their low carbohydrate content and high fat and protein content. However, always check the specific nutrition information based on the ingredients you use if you are following a strict dietary plan.

Enjoy making and serving these delightful Parmesan Bunny Ears! They are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, especially during Easter, bringing smiles and cheesy goodness to everyone’s faces.thumb_upthumb_down

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