Cornmeal-Cheese Straws
Crispy, cheesy Cornmeal-Cheese Straws offer a savory snack with sharp cheddar and a hint of paprika, perfect for parties, holidays, or as an irresistible appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter and cheese at medium speed of an electric mixer until creamy.
- Add water, beating well.
- Combine flour, white cornmeal, paprika, salt, and red pepper; gradually add to cheese mixture, beating until blended.
- Use a cookie press to shape dough into strips, following manufacturer's instructions.
- If a small serrated disc is not available, place a small piece of tape over each side of the serrated disc to leave a 3/4-inch opening.
- Place strips on ungreased baking sheets; cut into 2-inch strips.
- Bake at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Remove to wire racks to cool.
- Store in airtight containers, placing wax paper between layers.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a bit of cayenne pepper or using pepper jack cheese instead of sharp Cheddar. If you don't have a cookie press, you can pipe the dough using a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Make sure your butter is softened well to ensure a creamy consistency when mixing.
Serving Suggestions
These Cornmeal-Cheese Straws make a delightful appetizer or snack and pair beautifully with a refreshing dip, such as spinach or artichoke dip. They also complement a charcuterie board, adding a savory crunch alongside cheeses and cured meats. Try serving them with a side of Pea And Cheese Salad for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their crispness, place wax paper between layers. If they become soft, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornmeal-Cheese Straws contains roughly 607 calories, with 31g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (67% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2535mg per serving (110% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape. You can also sprinkle a little extra flour onto your work surface when shaping.
How can I make these cheese straws spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper or add chopped jalapeños to the dough. Alternatively, serve the cheese straws with a spicy dipping sauce to give them an extra kick.
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).