Marvelous Cheese Straws
Cheese straws are crispy, cheesy snacks with a touch of red pepper, perfect for parties or entertaining, offering a savory, spicy flavor in a crunchy form.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the flour.
- Pour the melted butter over the grated cheese.
- Add the flour, salt, and red pepper.
- Work the mixture together using your hands until it forms a good ball.
- Press the dough through a cookie press onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Cut the pressed dough into 3-inch strips before baking.
- Bake at 325-350°F for 20 minutes until they stop sizzling.
- They should not brown; bottoms should be golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or using pepper jack cheese instead of extra sharp cheese. If you don't have a cookie press, you can roll the dough into logs and cut them into strips. Ensure your butter is not too hot when mixing to avoid cooking the cheese. These cheese straws can also be made ahead and frozen for later use.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these marvelous cheese straws as a delightful appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They pair beautifully with a variety of dips, such as marinara or a creamy ranch dressing. For a complete spread, consider serving alongside Grandma Rachel Hernandez' Fish Patties or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their crispness, avoid refrigerating them. If you need to reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marvelous Cheese Straws contains roughly 155 calories, with 7g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), calcium (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% 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?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar, gouda, or a blend can work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary, so adjust the salt and spices accordingly.
What if I don't have a cookie press?
If you don't have a cookie press, simply roll the dough into 1/2-inch logs and cut them into 3-inch strips. You can also use a piping bag fitted with a large star tip for a decorative touch.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before pressing.
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).