Cheese straws are the ultimate snack: crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re throwing a party, looking for a savory treat to serve with drinks, or just craving something homemade, cheese straws are a go-to. They’re easy to make, and with the right recipe, you can whip up a batch in no time.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making the perfect cheese straws, from the ingredients to tips on shaping, baking, and serving.
Cheese Straws Recipe
Before we dive into the details, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page. Cheese straws are savory, crunchy snacks made from cheese, flour, butter, and a few other pantry staples. They’re typically shaped into long, thin sticks and baked until golden brown. The result? A cheesy, crispy treat that’s perfect for nibbling. Think of them as a cross between a cracker and a pastry, with loads of flavor in every bite!
Why Are Cheese Straws So Popular?
Cheese straws are a hit for several reasons. First off, they’re super easy to make. With minimal ingredients, you can create something that feels fancy enough to impress guests but casual enough to enjoy as an everyday snack. They’re also incredibly versatile—add a little spice, swap out the cheese for different flavors, or even shape them into cute twists. And let’s not forget that cheese is one of those universally loved ingredients. Who doesn’t crave a crispy, cheesy bite every once in a while?
Ingredients for Cheese Straws
To make cheese straws, you don’t need to run out and buy anything fancy. Chances are, you’ve got most of these ingredients in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cheese: The star of the show! Sharp cheddar cheese is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a combo for extra flavor.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works best for the perfect texture.
- Butter: Butter makes the dough rich and flaky.
- Mustard Powder: This adds a little zing to the cheese straws. You can use Dijon or English mustard powder, depending on your taste.
- Paprika: A dash of paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a bit of color.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavor of the cheese.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): For those who like a kick of heat in their snacks.
- Cold Water: To bring the dough together.
Cheese Straw Variations
- Herb Cheese Straws: Add chopped rosemary or thyme for an herbal twist.
- Spicy Cheese Straws: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes to kick things up.
- Cheese & Bacon Straws: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the dough for extra flavor.
How to Make Cheese Straws
Making cheese straws is simple. Here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Grate the Cheese
Start by grating your cheese. The finer the grate, the better it mixes into the dough, so aim for finely grated cheese if possible. You can use a food processor or a box grater—whatever works for you!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together your flour, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and any additional spices or herbs. This will ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed in the dough.
Step 3: Add the Butter
Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the dry ingredients. Use your fingers (or a pastry cutter) to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs. This is a key step in achieving that light, flaky texture.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Once the butter is well incorporated, stir in the grated cheese. The cheese should be evenly mixed in with the flour mixture, giving it a nice cheesy base.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Slowly add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together. You don’t want it too wet, so just add enough to form a smooth dough. Don’t overwork it!
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. You want the dough to be thin enough to get crispy, but not so thin that it breaks apart easily.
Step 7: Cut Into Strips
Now comes the fun part! Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the dough into long, thin strips about ½ inch wide. You can also use cookie cutters to make fun shapes if you’re feeling creative.
Step 8: Bake the Cheese Straws
Place the cheese straws on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave a little space between each one so they have room to crisp up. Bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Straws
- Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is crucial for flaky, crisp cheese straws. It helps create layers in the dough as it bakes.
- Grate the Cheese Fresh: Pre-grated cheese often has additives to prevent clumping, which can affect the texture. Freshly grated cheese is always the best choice.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing or rolling out the dough, be gentle. Overworking it can make the cheese straws tough.
- Experiment with Cheese: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar! Try mixing in different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese for a twist.
How to Serve Cheese Straws
Cheese straws are super versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:
- As an Appetizer: Serve cheese straws with a glass of wine or as part of a charcuterie board.
- For Parties: Cheese straws are perfect for party snacks. They’re easy to eat with one hand, making them a great option for a cocktail hour.
- With Soup: Use cheese straws as a side for tomato soup or any other creamy soups.
- On Their Own: Sometimes, cheese straws are just too good to share! Enjoy them as a solo snack.
FAQs About Cheese Straws
Can I make cheese straws ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Cheese straws are great for make-ahead snacks. Once baked, store them in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze the dough before baking and bake them fresh whenever you need a batch.
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is the classic choice, you can swap it out for any cheese that melts well. Gruyère, Parmesan, or even a mixture of cheeses can work great. Just be sure to grate it finely for the best texture.
My cheese straws are too soft. What went wrong?
If your cheese straws are soft, it’s likely that the dough was too wet or the straws weren’t baked long enough. Try rolling the dough thinner, and make sure to bake them until they’re golden and crispy.
How do I make cheese straws spicy?
For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the dough. You can also experiment with spicy cheeses like pepper jack.
Making cheese straws at home is a fun and rewarding way to create a snack that’s both cheesy and crunchy. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time in the kitchen, you’ll have a batch of homemade cheese straws that are way better than store-bought.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a party or just want a savory treat, these cheese straws are sure to hit the spot. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start baking—you won’t regret it!