Make these classic, crispy Southern cheese straws using sharp cheddar cheese. This recipe delivers a savory, buttery snack perfect for parties or game day.
Author:felixhayes
Prep Time:25 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:About 4 dozen 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
1 large egg white, lightly beaten
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Add the grated sharp cheddar cheese and mix until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each half out between two sheets of plastic wrap to about 1/8-inch thickness. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
Remove the top layer of plastic wrap. Cut the dough into strips about 1/2-inch wide and 4 to 5 inches long.
Twist each strip gently a few times to form a straw shape. Place the straws on the prepared baking sheets.
Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg white.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese straws are golden brown and crisp.
Transfer the straws to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up as they cool.
Notes
Use high-quality, sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor in these savory snack bites.
For extra crispiness, ensure your butter is cold when mixing if you skip the chilling step, though chilling is recommended.
These homemade cheese straws store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.