Nutty Cheese Straws
Nutty cheese straws are savory baked snacks with a cheesy, nutty flavor and a crisp texture, perfect for parties, appetizers, or as a tasty accompaniment to soup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix together the shredded Cheddar cheese and butter until well combined.
- Add the plain flour, toasted hazelnuts, and 2 tablespoons of cold water to the mixture.
- Mix until the mixture comes together to form a dough.
- Break off walnut-sized pieces of dough and roll each into long, thin sausage shapes about 5 inches long.
- Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Brush the baked straws with the beaten egg.
- Bake for an additional 6 to 8 minutes, until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, try using sharp Cheddar cheese instead of regular. If you don't have hazelnuts, walnuts or pecans can be great substitutes. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, and consider chilling the shaped straws for a few minutes before baking to help them maintain their shape.
Serving Suggestions
These Nutty Cheese Straws make a delightful snack or appetizer. Serve them warm alongside a dip, or pair with a charcuterie board. They also complement a glass of Nonalcoholic Eggnog(Recipe For Diabetic) during festive gatherings, enhancing their flavor and adding a fun twist to your spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nutty Cheese Straws contains roughly 150 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 11g 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 dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping, as this will make it easier to handle.
How can I make these cheese straws spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños into the dough. This will give your cheese straws an exciting kick while still allowing the nutty flavor to shine through.
Can I add other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or Gouda for varied flavors. Just keep in mind that the moisture content may differ, so adjust the flour accordingly if the dough seems too wet.
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).