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Classic Crispy Southern Cheddar Cheese Straws

A close-up stack of golden brown, twisted, crispy cheese straws with visible baked cheese.
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Make shatteringly crispy, savory cheese straws using sharp cheddar. This recipe delivers the buttery texture essential for a perfect party appetizer or game day snack.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
  2. Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
  4. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just 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. This step is key for crispiness.
  6. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). 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. Cut the dough into thin strips, about 1/2-inch wide and 4 to 5 inches long, to form your cheese straws.
  9. Place the straws on the prepared baking sheets. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg wash.
  10. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through, until the cheese straws are golden brown and crisp.
  11. Transfer the straws to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up further as they cool.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent optimal crispness.
  • For extra flavor, substitute a portion of the cheddar with Parmesan cheese.
  • If you want a flakier pastry, chill the dough for an hour instead of 30 minutes.

Nutrition

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