Description
These Southern Cheese Straws are a classic savory snack featuring sharp cheddar cheese blended with a mix of spices and baked to golden perfection. Crispy, cheesy, and flavorful with a hint of smoky paprika and cayenne pepper, they are perfect for entertaining or as a delicious treat any time.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded, about 4 cups)
- 1 cup salted butter (room temperature)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Cheese: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Grate the cold sharp cheddar cheese on the small side of a grater using the fine holes, then cover and allow it to come to room temperature, making it easier to blend with butter.
- Beat Butter and Cheese: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the room temperature salted butter and the softened shredded cheddar cheese together for 10-12 minutes. This process ensures the mixture becomes creamy, light, and well incorporated, forming the base of the dough.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Spices: Add the all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the butter and cheese mixture. Mix on medium-low speed until the dough is fully combined and smooth, ensuring that all spices are evenly distributed.
- Shape the Cheese Straws: Transfer the dough to a cookie press or a piping bag fitted with a large open star tip. Pipe the dough onto the lined baking sheets into long strips. Using a sharp, small knife, cut the piped strips into 3-inch lengths to form the classic cheese straw shape.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the cheese straws in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until they are lightly browned and crisp. After baking, allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step ensures a crunchy texture.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
- Allowing the cheese to come to room temperature helps it blend smoothly with the butter.
- A stand mixer with a paddle attachment is ideal but a hand mixer or vigorous hand mixing can work in a pinch.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to your preferred spice level.
- Store cooled cheese straws in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
- These cheese straws are great for parties, snacks, or paired with soups and salads.