Southern Cheese Straws are a delightful snack that brings a little taste of the South to any gathering. These crispy, cheesy treats are perfect for parties, game nights, or just enjoying with family and friends. With their savory flavor and satisfying crunch, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Southern Cheese Straws is easy and rewarding. They require simple ingredients that you likely have in your kitchen. The process is straightforward, allowing even beginner cooks to create a delicious snack. Plus, they are versatile – you can serve them at casual family get-togethers or dress them up for fancy occasions.
How to Make Southern Cheese Straws
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 to 2 tablespoons cold water (as needed)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the shredded cheddar, flour, salt, paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder. Mix until the ingredients come together into a firm dough.
- If the dough seems too dry or crumbly, add cold water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it forms a workable dough.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Roll the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into thin strips, roughly 4 to 5 inches long.
- Arrange the strips on parchment lined baking sheets, leaving space between them. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the straws are crisp.
- Let the cheese straws cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Southern Cheese Straws
Serve Southern Cheese Straws warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing or a spicy salsa. They are also great for snacking during movie nights or alongside drinks at parties.
How to Store Southern Cheese Straws
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, but they are best enjoyed fresh. To crisp them up again, pop them back in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Tips to Make Southern Cheese Straws
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like more heat, add extra cayenne pepper.
- For a different flavor, try adding some dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
Variation
You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. You can also cut the dough into fun shapes with cookie cutters for special occasions.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the cheese straws?
A: Yes, you can freeze the raw dough after shaping the straws. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer. When ready to bake, simply thaw and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese. However, fresh cheese usually melts better and gives a creamier texture.
Q: How can I make these cheese straws gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Southern Cheese Straws
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the shredded cheddar, flour, salt, paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder. Mix until the ingredients come together into a firm dough.
- If the dough seems too dry or crumbly, add cold water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it forms a workable dough.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Roll the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into thin strips, roughly 4 to 5 inches long.
- Arrange the strips on parchment lined baking sheets, leaving space between them.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the straws are crisp.
- Let the cheese straws cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
