If there’s one crowd-pleasing snack that always disappears the fastest at gatherings, it’s got to be this Cheese Straws Recipe. Gently crisp, buttery, and loaded with sharp cheddar flavor, these golden twists are the kind of irresistible treat you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for parties, lunch boxes, or simply with a cozy mug of tea, they offer that classic Southern American hospitality with every bite. Whether you serve them as appetizers or just an any-time snack, this Cheese Straws Recipe delivers pure comfort and plenty of smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to cheese straws, the beauty is in their simplicity—all you need are a few everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the zingy cheddar to a whisper of cayenne, every component adds its own magic to the taste and texture of this delightful snack.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet tender structure to give your cheese straws the perfect snap.
- Salt: Enhances flavors and balances the richness of butter and cheese.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a little kick of heat without overwhelming the cheesy goodness—totally adjustable to your preference.
- Unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Produces that signature flakiness and melt-in-your-mouth texture by creating tiny pockets as it bakes.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded: The star of the show! Using fresh, bold cheddar ensures every bite is packed with robust flavor.
- Cold water: Just enough to bring the dough together while keeping it tender and easy to work with.
How to Make Cheese Straws Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Before diving in, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)—this guarantees even baking and the kind of golden color we’re after. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your cheese straws come off effortlessly, with no sticking or mess to clean up later.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper. This simple step infuses every strand with subtle heat and seasoning, evenly dispersing those essential flavor boosters throughout the dough.
Step 3: Cut In the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to your dry mix. Using a pastry cutter or the tips of your fingers, work the butter in until your mixture looks crumbly and resembles coarse sand. These cold bits are crucial—they’ll steam and expand in the oven, giving your Cheese Straws Recipe that coveted lightness and flake.
Step 4: Add the Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle in your finely shredded cheddar cheese and mix until it’s dotted throughout the dough. This is where the flavor really starts to shine—using freshly shredded cheese melts better and tastes more vibrant than anything packaged.
Step 5: Bring the Dough Together
Drizzle in cold water, just a tablespoon at a time. Gently mix until the dough starts to clump together and can be pressed into a ball. Be careful not to overwork; this keeps your cheese straws tender and delicious.
Step 6: Shape and Slice
Transfer your dough to a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it, then roll into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into thin strips—about 1/2-inch wide and 4–6 inches long for that classic cheese straw look. If you’re feeling playful, give each strip a gentle twist for extra flair!
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one for even crisping. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until gloriously golden and crisp. Let them cool on a wire rack; this step helps set their texture and makes them extra snappy.
How to Serve Cheese Straws Recipe
Garnishes
Even though these cheese straws are delicious on their own, a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley just before serving adds vibrant color and a subtle herbaceous note. For a flavor twist, try dusting them with a pinch of smoked paprika right out of the oven.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a chilly glass of lemonade, a tomato-based soup, or your favorite savory dips for a snack that feels a bit more special. Cheese straws also make a wonderful companion to salads at lunch or a cheese platter at your next gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile cheese straws artfully in a mason jar for rustic charm or stack them in a basket lined with a pretty napkin for easy sharing at picnics and parties. For an extra fun appetizer board, pair strips with olives, nuts, and fruits—the perfect pop of crunch among softer nibbles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay crisp and tasty for up to four days. Just be sure they’re completely cool before storing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you’d like to prep ahead, freeze unbaked cheese straws on a tray until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time for cheesy snacks on demand.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked crispiness, pop cheese straws in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–5 minutes. This little trick also amps up their aroma, making your kitchen smell irresistible all over again!
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this Cheese Straws Recipe?
While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can make the straws less melty and flavorful. For best results, grate your cheddar fresh for maximum flavor and optimal texture.
How do I keep the cheese straws crisp?
Crispness comes from baking at the right temperature and cooling completely before storing. If they soften over time, a quick reheat in the oven brings back that satisfying snap.
Can I flavor the dough with other spices or cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with smoked cheddar, add a dash of garlic powder, or sprinkle in your favorite dried herbs. Just keep the ratios roughly the same to preserve texture.
Do I have to twist the cheese straws before baking?
Nope, twisting is optional! Straight strips are just as tasty and are perfect if you’re short on time. Twists do add a touch of visual fun and a bit more crunch in each bite, though.
Is this Cheese Straws Recipe suitable for making with kids?
Definitely! Kids love helping knead the dough, cut the strips, and even twist them into shapes. It’s a simple, hands-on recipe that turns out deliciously every time, making it fantastic for involving the whole family.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about sharing a plate of homemade snacks, and this Cheese Straws Recipe truly delivers both nostalgia and joy in every bite. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly they disappear and how often you’ll want to make them again!
Print
Cheese Straws Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 cheese straws 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheese Straws are a delightful savory pastry perfect for snacking or serving as a party appetizer. Made with sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of cayenne, these baked cheese sticks are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 1–2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper. Add the cold butter and blend it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the shredded cheddar. Drizzle in cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Shape and bake: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, roll it into a thin rectangle, and cut into strips. Transfer the strips to the baking sheet, twisting if desired. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Cool the cheese straws on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try smoked cheddar or a pinch of garlic powder.
- Cheese straws stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheese straw
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
