1-2-3 Cheese Straws
Crispy, cheesy cheese straws with a hint of red pepper, perfect for snacking or entertaining, offering a savory, buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine grated cheese and margarine in a mixing bowl.
- Add all-purpose flour and a dash of red pepper if desired.
- Force the mixture through a cookie press or cookie gun with a star design to form long strips on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F until lightly brown.
- Store in a closed container.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, use a sharp, aged cheese as it provides more flavor. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. To add a bit more heat, consider using cayenne pepper instead of red pepper. Ensure your cookie press is well greased to prevent sticking, and try experimenting with different shapes for variety.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese straws make a delightful snack on their own or as an appetizer. They pair beautifully with Joan'S Pineapple Dip for a sweet and savory combo, or you can serve them alongside a charcuterie board. Consider offering them with Hot Cakes Or Waffles for a unique brunch experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them crispy, avoid refrigerating. If you want to reheat them, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 1-2-3 Cheese Straws contains roughly 254 calories, with 8g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the cheese straws?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese straws! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What can I use if I don't have a cookie press?
If you don't have a cookie press, you can use a piping bag fitted with a star tip or simply roll the dough into logs and cut them into strips. While the shapes may differ, the flavor will still be delicious.
Can I add other spices or ingredients to the cheese straws?
Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch, or even some garlic powder for extra flavor. Just be mindful not to overpower the cheese, as it is the star ingredient.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).