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Snacks and candiesHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Cheese Snacks in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed) 1
  • 10 Best Cheese Snacks in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed) 2
  • 10 Best Cheese Snacks in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed) 3
  • 10 Best Cheese Snacks in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed) 4
  • 10 Best Cheese Snacks in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed) 5

10 Best Cheese Snacks in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed)

Cheese snacks are a delicious treat to satisfy your hunger, share at a party, or take on the go. They are versatile and explore many different types of cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella. They range from chips to puffs, to cheese sticks. And, they pair well with many different types of flavors from spicy to savory. The best cheese snacks will deliver real cheese flavor, a satisfying texture, and come in convenient packaging. 


We analyzed many different products and reviews to bring you our 10 best cheese snacks that deliver on taste, texture, and convenience. Our favorite is Whisps Parmesan Cheese Crisps because they satisfy any cheese craving with their bold flavor. They have a satisfying crunch, and they are a high-protein snack. We also compiled a buying guide, with oversight from a chef, that goes into detail on what to look for when selecting the perfect cheese snack. 

Last updated 09/26/2023

Quick List - Top Cheese Snacks

1

Whisps

Parmesan Cheese Crisps
Parmesan Cheese Crisps

Best for Pure Cheese in Crisp Form

2

Pepperidge Farm

Goldfish Baked Snack Crackers
Goldfish Baked Snack Crackers

Best to Take on the Go

3

Hippeas

Best Vegan Cheese Snack

4

Sonoma Creamery

Best for a Kick of Heat

5

Combos

Best Crunchy Cheese Snack

Jim Quast
Expert
Executive R&D Chef
Jim Quast

Jim Quast (JQ) is a lifelong professional restaurant and corporate R&D chef who loves everything food-related and the tools, both big and small, to make those great food memories. He's a super huge BBQ, grill, and kitchen gadget fanatic. JQ has spent the last 30+ years trying to figure out what works to make your kitchen life easier and fun. If you can use it to slice it, dice it, cook it, smoke it, or store it, he's been there checking it out. Food = Life!

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Andrew Simmons
Guide
Writer, Editor
Andrew Simmons

Andrew attended Pennsylvania State University where he received an education that focused on writing, editing, research, and application. He gained editing experience while working in social media and print marketing. He joined mybest in 2021 and enjoys researching and sharing his knowledge on video games, movies, books, and health.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

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How to Choose Cheese Snacks

When selecting the perfect cheese snack, it is important to consider the variety of cheese, the type of snack, and the packaging. 

1

Pick Your Preferred Cheese Flavor

Pick Your Preferred Cheese Flavor

Cheddar and Parmesan are the most widely used in cheese snacks. Cheddar tends to have a sharp and slightly earthy flavor, whereas Parmesan has a mellow and nutty flavor. If you like a strong flavor, try aged cheddar and sharp cheddar. The more aged the cheese is, the tangier the taste


Consider Gouda, Monterey jack, and mozzarella for a milder flavor. Gouda helps to add a smoky flavor, and Monterey jack has a buttery and slightly sweet flavor.


Blue cheese has a sharp and unique flavor. If you like blue cheese snacks, try Buffalo wing flavor. Blue cheese helps to enhance the flavor and cool down the spiciness of the Buffalo sauce.


If you like a sweet and nutty flavor, consider Swiss cheese. You can find this type of cheese in dips, sticks, and crackers. Mozzarella cheese is mild, creamy and salty. It's used to make string cheese. 


If you have a dairy sensitivity or a vegan diet, cheese snacks are still an option. Vegan cheese snacks are often made with tapioca starch or yeast extract. These ingredients deliver tangy cheese flavor without any dairy. 

2

Consider the Overall Flavor Profile

Consider the Overall Flavor Profile

Many snacks feature cheese as the prominent flavor, but some combine cheese with complementing tastes to deliver unique flavor profiles. Some of the popular flavors are barbecue, sour cream, pizza, sesame, tomato basil, and peanut butter.


If you're a spicy food lover, consider jalapeño, chili, or nacho. Cheese is a great addition to spicy flavors because dairy helps reduce the effects of capsaicin on your mouth. Therefore, you can enjoy your favorite spicy flavors without being overwhelmed by the heat. 


It's also a good idea to try international snacks for unconventional flavors and textures. Umaibo, a popular Japanese corn snack, comes in a cheese version that's similar to Cheetos Puffs but with a slightly different flavor profile.

3

Decide Between Different Types of Snacks

Decide Between Different Types of Snacks

Some of the most popular types of cheese snacks are tortilla chips, crackers, cheese puffs, pretzels, and crisps. They're made with a variety of types of cheese and come in many flavor options. Consider these snacks if you like something crunchy to eat during a movie, or as a treat for your party guests. 


If you're looking for pure cheese snacks, consider string cheese and baked cheese snacks. Since cheese is the featured ingredient, these snacks are great to satisfy a craving. It is also a good way to try different types of cheeses and discover your favorite. 


Cheese dips are versatile and pair well with many snacks. If you're looking for a convenient option, consider cheese dips that come with mini breadsticks, crackers, or pretzels. You can also pair cheese dips with fresh vegetables and fruits like baby carrots, grapes, sliced apples, cherry tomatoes, and olives.

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10 Best Cheese Snacks Ranking

Here are the best Cheese Snacks, ranked according to 10 Best Cheese Snacks (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity

Products

Image

Click to purchase

Key features

1

Whisps

Parmesan Cheese Crisps

Whisps Parmesan Cheese Crisps 1

Best for Pure Cheese in Crisp Form

2

Pepperidge Farm

Goldfish Baked Snack Crackers

Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Baked Snack Crackers 1

Best to Take on the Go

3

Hippeas

Hippeas  1

Best Vegan Cheese Snack

4

Sonoma Creamery

Sonoma Creamery  1

Best for a Kick of Heat

5

Combos

Combos  1

Best Crunchy Cheese Snack

6

Pirate's Booty

Aged White Cheddar Rice and Corn Puffs

Pirate's Booty Aged White Cheddar Rice and Corn Puffs 1

Best Cheese Puffs With Aged White Cheddar

7

Sargento

String Cheese

Sargento String Cheese 1

Best String Cheese in Individual Packs

8

Frito-Lay

Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips

Frito-Lay Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips 1

Best Cheesy Tortilla Chips for Parties

9

Nabisco

Nabisco  1

Best for Dipping Your Favorite Crackers

10

Frito-Lay

Crunchy Flamin' Hot Cheese Flavored Snacks

Frito-Lay Crunchy Flamin' Hot Cheese Flavored Snacks 1

Best Savory and Spicy Snack

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Whisps
Parmesan Cheese Crisps

Parmesan Cheese Crisps 1
Source:amazon.com
Parmesan Cheese Crisps 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.99
Mid
Reference price
$9.99
Mid

Best for Pure Cheese in Crisp Form

Pros:

  • Tangy Parmesan cheese, baked and crispy
  • Gluten-free
  • High protein snack 

Cons:

  • A few buyers claim the snacks are too salty

These crisps are made by baking aged Parmesan cheese until it is a crunchy snack. Parmesan cheese is the only ingredient, so the flavor is bold. Because the snacks are high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and gluten-free, they are perfect for those with dietary restrictions. 


The crisps are a bit too salty according to some buyers. However, others love the rich Parmesan flavor and satisfying snap and crunch. They are a flavorful snack, or they can be added to other dishes like salads, soups, or casseroles. 

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No.2

Pepperidge Farm
Goldfish Baked Snack Crackers

Reference price
$12.18
Mid

Best to Take on the Go

Pros:

  • Great for packing in your lunch
  • Bold cheddar cheese flavor 
  • Free from artificial preservatives and flavors 

Cons:

  • The crackers lack salt, according to some reviews 

These bite-sized crackers are made with real cheddar cheese. They are baked, giving them a light texture and satisfying crunch. They're a favorite for on-the-go kids! And, they make for the perfect snack or a delicious addition to soup or salad


A few reviewers say the crackers need more salt to complement the cheddar cheese flavor. However, buyers appreciate that the bags are the perfect snack portion to pack for lunch or take in the car. Some also like to add these crackers to their salads in place of croutons. 

No.3

Hippeas

Reference price
$3.19
Low

Best Vegan Cheese Snack

Pros:

  • Vegan
  • Gluten-free
  • Organic
  • Four grams of protein and three grams of fiber

Cons:

  • The flavor is too subtle according to a few reviews 

These vegan white cheddar chickpea puffs are baked to create a light, airy texture. They are made without gluten or dairy, and they are organic. That makes them the perfect cheesy snack for individuals with dietary restrictions. 


Some reviewers complain the flavor is not bold enough. However, buyers like how the snacks have a light crunch. Even those who aren't vegan say the flavor and texture is so good, that they're addicted to them!

No.4

Sonoma Creamery

Reference price
$14.99
High Mid

Best for a Kick of Heat

Pros:

  • Resealable bag
  • Good source of protein
  • Gluten-free

Cons:

  • A few buyers claim the snack is too salty

These tasty cheese crisps are made by combining pepper jack cheese with rice and gluten-free oat flours, and adding bell peppers, jalapeño, and garlic. They are baked, and the result is a crunchy snack with some serious heat. They also make great toppings for your favorite dishes like soups or casseroles. 


Some reviewers claim the crisps are too salty. But, others love the kick of heat from the pepper jack cheese and jalapeño. They also appreciate the snack is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, it works for many with dietary restrictions. 

Best Crunchy Cheese Snack

Pros:

  • Easy to take on the go 
  • Made with a blend of real cheeses 
  • Crunchy pretzel texture 

Cons:

  • The pretzels can sometimes not contain enough cheese filling according to some reviews

This delicious snack is made by stuffing baked pretzel pieces with a blend of cheeses. The result is a crunchy bite that delivers bold cheese flavor. The saltiness of the pretzel enhances the cheese flavor and the contrast in textures is irresistible. 


A few reviewers say their pretzels did not contain enough cheese, so quality might vary between batches. But, overall, buyers love the crunchy pretzels and creamy cheese filling. They also like that the bags are small and can be packed in their lunch. 

No.6

Pirate's Booty
Aged White Cheddar Rice and Corn Puffs

Reference price
$13.58
Mid

Best Cheese Puffs With Aged White Cheddar

Pros:

  • Gluten-free and peanut-free
  • Free of artificial preservatives and colors 
  • Easy to take on the go

Cons:

  • A few buyers mention the cheese puffs lacked seasoning

These popular cheese puffs are made with a combination of rice flour and cornmeal. They're seasoned with aged white cheddar cheese, delivering tangy cheese flavor. Additionally, they're free of gluten, nuts, artificial colors, and preservatives.


According to some reviews, the puffs could use more seasoning to bring out the bold cheddar flavor. However, buyers appreciate the small bags because they are easy for portion control or packing in their kids' lunches. They also say the light texture makes it easy to eat a lot without feeling too full!

No.7

Sargento
String Cheese

String Cheese 1
Source:amazon.com
String Cheese 2
Source:walmart.com
Reference price
$4.44
Low Mid
Reference price
$4.44
Low Mid

Best String Cheese in Individual Packs

Pros:

  • Easy to take on the go 
  • Rich mozzarella flavor 
  • Good source of protein and calcium

Cons:

  • A few buyers claim the string cheese is too salty
  • Keep refrigerated and cool

This string cheese is made with creamy mozzarella and is perfect for pulling and snacking. It is high-protein, and contains plenty of calcium. Because each cheese stick is individually wrapped, they are perfect to take in your lunch or on the go. 


This string cheese is a bit salty, according to some reviewers. But, others appreciate the flavor, saying it is tasty and fresh. They also like that the string cheese is high in protein and helps satiate them between meals.

No.8

Frito-Lay
Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips

Reference price
$4.98
Low Mid

Best Cheesy Tortilla Chips for Parties

Pros:

  • Bold nacho cheese flavor
  • Crunchy texture
  • Large bag is great for sharing
  • Gluten-free

Cons:

  • None

These crunchy tortilla chips are seasoned with cheddar, Romano cheese, and spices, giving them a tangy flavor. The chips are baked and then fried to create a delightful crunch. The large bag makes them perfect for sharing or taking to a party. 


Most buyers love the satisfying crunch and tangy cheese flavor. They are popular among kids and adults, so they are easy to share. 

Best for Dipping Your Favorite Crackers

Pros:

  • Easy to take on the go 
  • Tangy cheddar cheese flavor
  • Cheese dip pairs well with other snacks, too

Cons:

  • According to some reviews, the crackers are too salty
  • Some reviewers didn't get the red stick in theirs; it's been phased out by the manufacturer for environmental reasons

This snack is the perfect combination of crunchy Ritz crackers and silky cheddar cheese dip. Their size makes them the perfect snack to take in your lunch or on the go. And if you have any cheese dip left, it goes great with pretzels or veggies


A few buyers assert the crackers are too salty. And, others are disappointed the snack no longer comes with the red stick to spread the cheese. On the other hand, reviewers love the taste of the smooth cheddar cheese. They also appreciate the individual serving packages, as they are easy for portion control. 

No.10

Frito-Lay
Crunchy Flamin' Hot Cheese Flavored Snacks

Reference price
$17.35
High Mid

Best Savory and Spicy Snack

Pros:

  • Easy to take on the go
  • Spicy and savory flavor profile 
  • Gluten-free

Cons:

  • According to some reviews, the excessive red food coloring is frustrating

Flamin' Hot Cheetos combine tangy cheddar cheese with spicy chili powder for a tasty snack. The cheese helps control the heat from the chili powder, making this snack appeal to many. They are also great for dipping into a creamy sauce like French onion dip. 


Some reviewers complain about the red food coloring, saying it can be excessive. However, others love that this snack delivers subtle heat and a crunchy texture. They also appreciate that the bags are small, making them perfect for portion control or packing in a lunch.

Buying Guide Reviewed by Executive R&D Chef Jim Quast

Jim Quast
Executive R&D Chef
Jim Quast

This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.

Top 5 Cheese Snacks

No. 1: WhispsParmesan Cheese Crisps

No. 2: Pepperidge FarmGoldfish Baked Snack Crackers

No. 3: Hippeas

No. 4: Sonoma Creamery

No. 5: Combos

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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