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Classic Southern Crispy Cheddar Cheese Straws

A pile of golden, crispy, twisted cheese straws resting on a bright white plate, catching the sunlight.
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Make shatteringly crispy, savory cheese straws using sharp cheddar and cold butter. This straightforward recipe delivers the classic Southern snack perfect for parties or game day.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 1 1/2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon cold 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. Work quickly to keep the butter cold.
  3. Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg and cold water. Add this liquid mixture to the flour and cheese mixture. Mix just until a shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently bring it together into a cohesive disk. Wrap the disk 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. Divide the chilled dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll one half of 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 to 6 inches long. You can twist the strips slightly for a more traditional look.
  9. Place the cheese straws on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a small space between them.
  10. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the straws are golden brown and crisp. Baking time depends on your oven and the thickness of your straws.
  11. Transfer the straws to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up further as they cool.

Notes

  • For the crispiest texture, use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese and ensure your butter is very cold.
  • If you prefer a Parmesan flavor, substitute half of the cheddar with grated Parmesan cheese.
  • You can prepare the dough up to 2 days ahead; keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

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