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The Ultimate Crispy Southern Cheddar Cheese Straws (Easy Recipe)

A pile of freshly baked, golden brown, twisted cheese straws dusted with melted cheese.
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Make the best homemade cheese straws with this simple recipe. These buttery, savory snacks use sharp cheddar and bake up perfectly crispy, making them ideal party appetizers or game day food.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
  2. Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
  4. Add the cold water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a flat disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
  8. Cut the dough into strips about 1/2-inch wide and 4 to 5 inches long. You can twist the strips slightly for a classic look.
  9. Place the strips on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a small space between them.
  10. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg and sprinkle with paprika, if using.
  11. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the cheese straws are golden brown and crisp. Baking time varies, so watch them closely to prevent burning.
  12. Transfer the crispy cheese straws to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up more as they cool.
  13. Serve these savory snacks immediately or store them in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and texture; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect crispiness.
  • For Parmesan straws, substitute half of the cheddar with grated Parmesan cheese.
  • If you prefer a more herb flavor, add 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme to the dry ingredients.
  • These homemade crackers are excellent served with wine or alongside soup.

Nutrition

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