Southern Cheese Straws
Cheesy, spicy, and crisp Southern Cheese Straws are perfect for snacking at parties or as a savory treat, combining sharp cheddar with a hint of cayenne in a flaky pastry.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Mix together whole wheat flour, grated sharp Cheddar cheese, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Cut in butter using two forks or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles cornmeal.
- Add the beaten egg and stir to combine. Knead until you can form a ball of dough.
- Place the dough on a floured surface and roll thin.
- Cut into finger-sized strips.
- Bake on a lightly greased cookie sheet for 5 to 8 minutes, until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of Cheddar and Gruyère cheese. If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/4 tsp. Alternatively, you can use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour for a lighter texture. Make sure your butter is cold for the best texture. If dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour until manageable.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese straws as a delightful appetizer or snack. They pair beautifully with a cold beer or a glass of white wine. For a complete spread, consider serving them alongside a bowl of Sour Cream Sauce for dipping. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board with cured meats and olives.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm and crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Cheese Straws contains roughly 70 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling it out.
What can I use instead of whole wheat flour?
If you don't have whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour is a great substitute. You could also try a gluten-free flour blend if you're looking for gluten-free options. The texture might differ slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the cheese straws?
To adjust the spiciness, you can decrease the cayenne pepper to as little as 1/4 tsp for a milder flavor. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of paprika for a smoky flavor without the heat. Taste the dough before baking to find your preferred spice level.
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).