Description
Delightfully crunchy and cheesy, these Cheese Straws are the perfect savory snack or appetizer. Made with sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of cayenne for a subtle spicy kick, these crispy straws are baked to golden perfection and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or just as a tasty treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup cold water (or as needed)
For Egg Wash (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and cayenne pepper if using, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, which creates a flaky texture.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until it is well distributed throughout the mixture, infusing the dough with rich cheesy flavor.
- Form Dough: Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to maintain tenderness.
- Roll Dough: Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips approximately 1/2 inch wide and 3-4 inches long.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cut strips carefully on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them so they do not touch, allowing even baking and crisping.
- Apply Egg Wash: If desired, brush the tops of the cheese straws with beaten egg. This step gives them a lovely golden color when baked.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese straws become golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Transfer the baked cheese straws to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy these flavorful, crispy treats!
Notes
- For a spicy variation, include the optional cayenne pepper; omit it for a milder flavor.
- Use cold butter and cold water to ensure a flaky texture in the dough.
- The egg wash is optional but adds a beautiful golden sheen to the cheese straws.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them crisp.
- Can be served as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food.
