Super Cheese Straws
Super Cheese Straws are crispy, cheesy snacks with a kick of cayenne and a savory cheddar flavor. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a savory treat anytime, their delicate crunch and bold cheese taste make them a crowd-pleaser for cheese lovers and snack enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- With an electric mixer at medium to high speed, cream the butter and shortening until soft.
- Add the grated cheese; mix well.
- Sift the flour, salt, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper together.
- Add the dry ingredients in three additions.
- Mix well after each addition.
- Pipe the cheese mixture onto a cookie sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes at 350°F or until just starting to turn golden brown at the edges.
- Carefully transfer the cheese straws to a wire rack for cooling as they are very crisp and break easily.
- Sprinkle with paprika, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using half butter and half low-fat vegetable shortening. If you want to add some extra flavor, try mixing in some finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme. Ensure your cheese is finely grated for the best texture and easy piping. If you don't have sharp Cheddar, any aged cheese will work well as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Super Cheese Straws as a delightful appetizer or snack alongside your favorite dip or The Barn Doors Garlic Dressing for an extra kick. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board, pairing nicely with olives, cured meats, and fresh fruits. Enjoy them with a refreshing Lettuceless Salad for a complete spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their crispness. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore their crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super Cheese Straws contains roughly 727 calories, with 24g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1948mg per serving (85% 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! While sharp Cheddar is recommended for its flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or even pepper Jack for a spicy twist. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary depending on the cheese you choose.
What if I don't have a piping bag?
If you don't have a piping bag, you can use a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to pipe the cheese mixture. Alternatively, you can scoop the mixture with a spoon and shape it into sticks by hand, though this may result in less uniform shapes.
Can I make these cheese straws ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before piping, as this will make it easier to work with. Baked cheese straws can also be stored for later enjoyment as mentioned above.
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).