Crazy Cheese Straws
Crispy, cheesy cheese straws with a flaky puff pastry base, topped with Parmesan and baked to perfection. These savory treats are perfect for parties, snacks, or appetizers, offering a delightful crunch and rich flavor that will satisfy cheese lovers and entertaining guests alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the frozen puff pastry thaw for about thirty minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Dust your countertop with flour.
- Lay the puff pastry on the floured surface.
- Spread grated Parmesan cheese over the pastry.
- Mix egg white with 2 teaspoons of water.
- Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash.
- Cut the pastry into strips and twist to form straws.
- Place the cheese straws on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or paprika to the Parmesan cheese before spreading it on the pastry. If you don't have egg whites, you can substitute with milk for brushing. Be careful not to overwork the puff pastry; keep it cold for the best rise. For a twist, try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyère, for varied flavors.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese straws make an excellent appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or gatherings. They pair beautifully with a dip like Hot Artichoke Cheese Dip or can be served alongside a crisp salad for a light lunch. Consider serving them with drinks like wine or sparkling water for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crazy Cheese Straws contains roughly 28 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 cheese straws ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese straws and freeze them before baking. Arrange the twisted straws on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time without thawing.
What can I use instead of puff pastry?
If you don't have puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough. Layer several sheets of phyllo brushed with melted butter, sprinkle with cheese, and cut into strips. While the texture will differ, it will still yield crispy results.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
To prevent burning, keep an eye on the cheese straws as they bake, especially towards the end of the cooking time. If they look like they are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover them with aluminum foil until the baking is complete.
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).