Walnut Cheese Sticks
Crispy walnut-studded cheese sticks with a sweet brown sugar glaze, perfect as a snack or party treat for cheese lovers and those with a sweet-savory palate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend creamed cottage cheese and 1/2 pound of butter with a fork until smooth.
- Add sifted flour and blend until the dough holds together.
- Roll the dough to 1/2-inch thickness on a lightly floured board.
- Spread the dough with melted butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar and chopped nuts.
- Cut the dough into triangles 3 inches wide at the base.
- Starting at the base, roll each triangle into a stick, placing the point side down on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Makes approximately 36 cheese sticks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough. If you're out of brown sugar, granulated sugar can be used, but the taste will differ slightly. Chopped walnuts are traditional, but feel free to substitute with pecans or almonds for a different nutty profile. Make sure your butter is softened for easier blending.
Serving Suggestions
These walnut cheese sticks make a delightful appetizer or snack. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or alongside a warm bowl of soup for a cozy meal. They also pair beautifully with Overnight Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls for a sweet brunch spread. Consider drizzling a little honey or maple syrup over them for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm and slightly crispy, ensuring they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Cheese Sticks contains roughly 162 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 9g 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 use low-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?
While low-fat cottage cheese can be used, it may result in a drier dough. To maintain the moisture and richness, consider adding a tablespoon of extra butter or using full-fat creamed cottage cheese for the best texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free option?
You can replace butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil to keep the recipe dairy-free. Just make sure to use a variety that holds up well in baking for the best results. This will still yield delicious cheese sticks without compromising on taste.
How can I make these cheese sticks spicier?
To add a spicy kick to your cheese sticks, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the dough. Alternatively, you can serve them with a spicy dipping sauce, like a chipotle aioli, for an exciting twist that complements the sweetness.
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).