how to make cheese straws recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best how to make cheese straws recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite cheese straws recipe. This classic Southern dish is a staple in our household, and I just can’t get enough of it.

The combination of flaky pastry, gooey cheese, and crispy edges is absolute perfection. My kids love helping me make these straws, and they’re always a hit at family gatherings.

Whether we’re serving them as a snack or as part of a larger meal, these cheese straws are always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make and require only a few ingredients.

I like to think that this recipe is a great way to connect with my heritage and the traditions of the South. There’s something special about biting into one of these flaky straws and feeling the warmth of the oven still radiating from it.

It’s a sensory experience that never gets old. I’ve experimented with different types of cheese and spices over the years, but at the end of the day, this recipe remains one of my absolute favorites.

The key to making these cheese straws truly special is in the technique – you have to make sure your dough is nice and flaky, and that your cheese is evenly distributed throughout. It’s a bit of an art form, but trust me when I say it’s worth the effort.

Classic Cheese Straws

Classic Cheese Straws

4.8 from 901 votes

These cheese straws are crisp, flaky, and full of sharp cheddar flavor. They make an excellent appetizer or snack for parties and gatherings.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 24 strawsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal per straw

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
1 1/2 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
3 to 4 tablespoons ice water

For the Topping

1 large egg, beaten
1 tablespoon water
Coarse sea salt or flaky salt, for sprinkling

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a food processor, pulse together the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper until combined, about 5 seconds.
4Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse meal with some pea-sized butter pieces, about 10 to 12 pulses.
5Add the shredded cheddar cheese and pulse briefly, just 3 to 4 times, to distribute.
6Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of ice water over the mixture and pulse until the dough begins to clump together.
7If it seems dry, add the remaining tablespoon of ice water, 1 teaspoon at a time, pulsing after each addition.
8Do not overprocess.
9Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gather it into a disk.
10Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 days, until firm.
11On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 10×12-inch rectangle about 1/8-inch thick.
12Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips about 1/2 inch wide and 10 inches long.
13Transfer the strips to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
14In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon water to make an egg wash.
15Brush the tops of each straw lightly with the egg wash, then sprinkle with coarse salt.
16Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through, until the straws are golden brown and crisp.
17Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
18They will continue to crisp as they cool.

🔧Equipment

Food processor or pastry blender
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Sharp knife or pizza cutter
Pastry brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 180mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne to 1/2 teaspoon or add a pinch of smoked paprika. You can also twist each strip before baking for a more decorative look. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Classic Cheese Straws Works

These cheese straws are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick snack on hand. They’re easy to reheat in the oven or microwave, and they’re always a hit with our family gatherings.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can customize it with different types of cheese and spices to suit your tastes. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love biting into one of these crispy little morsels?

They’re just the right size for snacking on-the-go, or as part of a larger meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheese Straws

What type of cheese should I use for these cheese straws?

For this recipe, I prefer to use a sharp cheddar or a combination of cheddar and parmesan. You can also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make these cheese straws ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make these straws ahead of time! Simply assemble the dough and let it rest in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This will give you plenty of time to get everything ready for your gathering without having to worry about last-minute prep.

How do I ensure that my cheese straws are evenly cooked?

To ensure that your straws are evenly cooked, try rotating the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time. This will help prevent any hot spots from forming on the sheet and ensure that your straws bake consistently.

Can I freeze these cheese straws for later use?

Yes, you can freeze these straws for up to 2 months! Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftover cheese straws?

To store leftover cheese straws, place them in an airtight container or plastic bag and keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days.

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