Cheese Twist Sticks
Crispy cheese twist sticks with a hint of spice, perfect for snacking or entertaining, offering a savory, cheesy flavor with a subtle kick from cayenne pepper.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift all dry ingredients and cut in cheese and butter.
- Add ice water and knead until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough to a thickness of 1/8 inch.
- Cut into strips and twist.
- Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. If you don't have dry mustard, ground mustard seeds can be used as a substitute. Ensure your butter is cold for a flakier texture. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Pepper Jack, to add variety.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese twist sticks make a delightful appetizer or snack and pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce, such as marinara or a spicy mustard. They can also be served alongside a fresh salad, like Florida Spinach Salad, for a light meal. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese twist sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Twist Sticks contains roughly 733 calories, with 7g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (139% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1764mg per serving (77% 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 2 days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling out.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
You can substitute Cheddar cheese with other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, or even Parmesan for a sharper flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly.
Can I freeze the cheese twist sticks?
Yes, cheese twist sticks can be frozen before baking. Just freeze the twisted strips on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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).