Cheese Straws Or Wafers
Crispy, cheesy cheese straws with a hint of cayenne and tangy lemon, perfect as a festive snack or elegant appetizer for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the butter and flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Add the grated Cheddar cheese, cayenne pepper, and salt to the mixture and mix lightly.
- Combine the egg yolk, lemon juice, and Tabasco sauce in a small bowl.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the egg yolk mixture.
- Mix to form a firm dough.
- Pass the dough through a cookie press fitted with a small star tip onto a greased baking sheet, or roll on a lightly floured surface and cut into 1/2 x 3-inch strips.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 12 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or replace the Cheddar with a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan for a more complex flavor. If you don't have a cookie press, you can easily roll the dough into logs and slice them instead. Make sure to chill the dough for 30 minutes before cutting to help maintain shape during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese straws make a perfect appetizer or snack, especially paired with a chilled glass of white wine or served alongside a charcuterie board. They also pair beautifully with Medivnyk (Honey Cake) for a delightful contrast in flavors. Serve them warm for the best texture, or enjoy them as a crunchy addition to a salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep them crispy, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them chewy rather than crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Straws Or Wafers contains roughly 988 calories, with 47g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (138% of the Daily Value), protein (94% of the Daily Value), and iron (77% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 765mg per serving (33% 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 the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just ensure it is wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before using a cookie press or cutting into strips.
Can I freeze the cheese straws?
Absolutely! Unbaked cheese straws can be frozen for up to a month. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil. For a healthier twist, consider using unsweetened applesauce, although this may alter the texture slightly, making them softer rather than crispy.
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).