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Classic Crispy Southern Cheddar Cheese Straws

A pile of golden, flaky, twisted cheese straws recipe served on a white plate.
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Make these classic Southern Cheddar Cheese Straws for a flaky, buttery, and savory snack perfect for parties or enjoying with soup. This recipe delivers the crisp texture you expect from homemade cheese crackers.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons ice water

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cayenne 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 shredded cheddar cheese until it is evenly distributed.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with the ice water. Add this liquid mixture to the flour and cheese, mixing just until the dough 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 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough out to about 1/8-inch thickness.
  8. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into strips about 1/2-inch wide and 5 to 6 inches long.
  9. Gently twist each strip once or twice 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 cheese straws are golden brown and crisp. Baking time varies based on thickness.
  11. Transfer the straws to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up more as they cool.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, substitute half the cheddar cheese with grated Parmesan cheese.
  • If you prefer a quicker method, you can use one sheet of thawed, all-butter puff pastry. Cut the pastry into strips, sprinkle generously with cheese and seasonings, twist, and bake according to package directions until golden.
  • You can make these savory snacks ahead of time. Store cooled cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Nutrition

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