Crunchy Cheddar Cheese Straws

Crunchy Cheddar Cheese Straws are a delightful twist on traditional cheese straws, incorporating a robust cheddar flavor that melts in your mouth, complemented by a satisfyingly crisp texture. This recipe elevates a simple snack into an artisanal experience, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a personal treat. The rich, sharp taste of aged cheddar combined with a buttery, flaky pastry and a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick makes these cheese straws irresistibly delicious. Visually, they are as appealing as they are flavorful, with a golden-brown hue and a rustic, homemade charm.

Ingredients

Serving Size

• Makes about 24 straws

Grocery Items Needed

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons ice water

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Add butter and cheese: Incorporate the cold cubed butter and grated cheddar cheese into the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Form the dough: Sprinkle the ice water over the mixture and stir until the dough comes together. You might need to knead it slightly with your hands.
5. Roll and cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into narrow strips, approximately 1/2 inch wide and 6 inches long.
6. Twist and bake: Twist each strip several times and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
7. Cooling: Let the cheese straws cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

• For an extra kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
• Ensure the butter is very cold to help achieve flaky, crisp straws.
• Experiment with different cheeses such as Parmesan or Gruyère for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Crunchy Cheddar Cheese Straws as a standalone snack or pair them with a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to a cheese platter, adding texture and spice that complements soft cheeses and fresh fruits.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Allergens: Wheat, Dairy

Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family, and don't hesitate to add your own twist to make it uniquely yours. Whether it's adjusting the spices or adding new ingredients, each variation brings a new flavor to discover and enjoy.