Aunt Nell'S Famous Cheese Straws
Crisp and cheesy cheese straws with a hint of red pepper, perfect for snacking or entertaining, offering a savory, cheesy flavor in a crunchy, portable form.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the oleo and grated cheese together until well combined.
- Sift all dry ingredients: flour, salt, and red pepper.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cheese mixture, mixing as you go.
- Press the dough with a cookie press or pastry press to form two-inch straws about three-quarters of an inch wide.
- Place the shaped cheese straws on a baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
- Check the cheese straws halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
- Remove from oven and enjoy these savory treats.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more red pepper or using pepper jack cheese instead of extra sharp cheese. If you don't have oleo, unsalted butter can be a suitable substitute, but it may alter the texture slightly. Ensure the cheese is grated finely for better incorporation into the dough. If using a cookie press, make sure it's well greased to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese straws as a delightful appetizer or snack at gatherings. They pair beautifully with a refreshing Orange Milkshake or a tangy dip like salsa or guacamole. Enjoy them alongside other savory treats, or as part of a cheese platter with assorted crackers and fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm and crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Nell'S Famous Cheese Straws contains roughly 645 calories, with 25g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1094mg per serving (48% 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 make these cheese straws ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply shape and bake as directed. You can also freeze the shaped straws before baking and cook them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What is the best cheese to use for cheese straws?
Extra sharp cheddar is ideal for its strong flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for different tastes. Just ensure the cheese is well-grated to blend seamlessly into the dough.
How do I ensure my cheese straws are crispy?
To achieve a crispy texture, make sure not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Also, baking until they are lightly golden brown will enhance crispiness. Avoid underbaking, as this can lead to a chewy texture.
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).