Print

Classic Crispy Southern Cheddar Cheese Straws

A close-up of a stack of golden, flaky, twisted cheese straws sprinkled with black pepper or seeds, served on a small plate.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make these classic Southern cheese straws for a savory, crispy party appetizer. This recipe uses sharp cheddar and cold butter to guarantee a flaky texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 large egg white, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon cold water

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
  2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk the egg white and cold water together. Add this mixture to the flour and cheese mixture. Mix until a stiff dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each half into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
  6. Cut the dough into strips about 1/2 inch wide and 4 to 5 inches long. You can twist the strips slightly for a classic look.
  7. Place the strips on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving a small space between them.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the straws are crisp. Baking time depends on thickness.
  9. Transfer the cheese straws to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up as they cool.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent the best texture.
  • Keep the butter very cold to achieve the flakiest, crispiest result, which is key for great party appetizers.
  • You can substitute half the cheddar with Parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile.
  • Prepare the dough ahead of time, wrap it tightly, and chill for up to two days before cutting and baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/cheese-straws-recipe-classic-crispy-southern/