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Classic Crispy Southern Cheddar Cheese Straws Recipe

A pile of golden brown, flaky, twisted cheese straws recipe resting on a light-colored plate.
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Make these classic Southern Cheddar Cheese Straws for a savory, crispy appetizer perfect for parties or snacks. This recipe delivers buttery, flavorful bites that are simple to prepare.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon cold water

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
  2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk and cold water together. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and mix until a dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
  5. Form the dough into a flat disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/8-inch thickness.
  8. Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips about 1/2-inch wide and 5 inches long.
  9. Twist each strip gently a few times to form a straw shape. Place the straws on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a small space between them.
  10. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the straws are crisp. Baking time varies based on thickness.
  11. Let the cheese straws cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They crisp up as they cool.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, use aged sharp cheddar cheese.
  • You can make this dough up to two days ahead; keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator.
  • For a flaky texture variation, substitute the dough with one sheet of thawed puff pastry, cut into strips, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://miameal.com/cheese-straws-recipe/