Savory Cheese Straws with a Zesty Kick
Indulge in these delectable Savory Cheese Straws, reminiscent of Paula Deen's classic recipe but with an added zest that will make them unforgettable. Perfect as a snack or an appetizer, these cheese straws combine the rich flavors of sharp cheddar with a hint of heat from ground red pepper and a medley of optional dried herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, these cheese straws are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Ideal for gatherings, parties, or cozy evenings at home, they are easy to make and sure to impress your guests. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch that complements the cheesy goodness. Enjoy sharing these treats with family and friends!
60
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1/2 cup (softened to room temperature)
sharp cheddar cheese
1 lb (shredded and at room temperature)
all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups (sifted)
salt
1 teaspoon (fine salt)
ground red pepper
1/4 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
dried herbs
2-3 teaspoons (optional, can use dried dill, thyme, or sage)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) for even baking.
2
Ensure that your sharp cheddar cheese and butter are at room temperature for easy mixing.
3
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter using an electric mixer until it is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4
Gradually add the room-temperature sharp cheddar cheese to the creamed butter, mixing until the two are well combined and fully incorporated.
5
Sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground red pepper in a separate bowl. Optionally, include dried herbs such as dill, thyme, or sage for additional flavor.
6
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the cheese mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be cautious not to overwork the dough.
7
Cover the dough and refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes to help it firm up, making it easier to pipe.
8
After chilling, transfer the dough into a cookie press fitted with a ridged tip for a decorative shape.
9
Pipe the dough into 2-inch strips directly onto a lightly greased cookie sheet, ensuring a bit of space between each strip.
10
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the strips are lightly browned and crispy.
11
Once baked, carefully remove the cheese straws from the oven and transfer them to wire racks to cool. Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Cheese Straws with a Zesty Kick?
They are a delectable snack or appetizer made with sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and flour, featuring a hint of heat from ground red pepper and optional dried herbs for a layered flavor profile.
What recipe are these cheese straws reminiscent of?
These cheese straws are reminiscent of Paula Deen's classic recipe but updated with an added zest for a unique and unforgettable taste.
What type of cheese is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for one pound of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and brought to room temperature.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 300°F (150°C) to ensure even baking for the straws.
Why do the butter and cheese need to be at room temperature?
Having the butter and sharp cheddar cheese at room temperature allows for easy mixing and ensures they incorporate fully with the other ingredients.
How long should I cream the butter?
Using an electric mixer, you should cream the butter until it is light and fluffy, which typically takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
What gives these cheese straws their 'zesty kick'?
The zesty kick comes from the addition of 1/4 teaspoon of ground red pepper, which can be adjusted to your personal taste preference.
Which optional herbs can be added to the dough?
You can include 2-3 teaspoons of dried herbs such as dill, thyme, or sage to add an extra layer of flavor to the straws.
Should I sift the dry ingredients?
Yes, it is recommended to sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground red pepper in a separate bowl before adding them to the cheese mixture.
How do I prevent the dough from being too tough?
To keep the texture light, slowly incorporate the dry ingredients and mix only until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overwork it.
Why does the dough need to be refrigerated?
Refrigerating the dough for approximately 30 minutes helps it firm up, making it significantly easier to pipe through a cookie press.
What tool is used to shape the cheese straws?
A cookie press fitted with a ridged tip is used to create the decorative 2-inch strips.
How should I prepare the cookie sheet?
The strips should be piped directly onto a lightly greased cookie sheet, leaving a bit of space between each strip for baking.
How long should the cheese straws bake?
Bake the straws in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes.
How do I know when the cheese straws are finished cooking?
They are ready when they are lightly browned and have achieved a crispy texture.
How should the straws be cooled?
Once removed from the oven, they should be carefully transferred to wire racks to cool completely.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 60 servings, making it ideal for large gatherings or parties.
What is the texture of these cheese straws?
Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch that complements the rich, cheesy flavor.
How should leftover cheese straws be stored?
To maintain their crispness, store the cheese straws in an airtight container.
Can these be served with dipping sauces?
Yes, while they are flavorful enough to enjoy on their own, they also pair very well with your favorite dipping sauces.
What kind of salt should I use?
The recipe calls for one teaspoon of fine salt to ensure it mixes evenly into the dough.
Is this a fast recipe to make?
Yes, with a preparation time involving quick mixing and a 10-15 minute bake time, they are considered an easy recipe to follow.
Can I make these for a holiday party?
Absolutely, their savory profile and decorative shape make them a perfect party food or appetizer for any gathering.
What category of food does this fall into?
These fall into the categories of snacks, appetizers, and savory baked treats.
Can the ground red pepper be omitted?
The recipe suggests adjusting the ground red pepper to taste, so you can reduce the amount if you prefer a milder snack.
How much butter is required?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of butter, softened to room temperature.
Do I need a specific tip for the cookie press?
Yes, the recipe recommends a ridged tip to give the cheese straws their classic decorative shape.
Are these straws suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, based on the ingredients list (butter, cheese, flour, salt, spices, and herbs), these are suitable for vegetarians who consume dairy.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The primary flavor is rich, sharp cheddar cheese with a subtle spicy kick and aromatic herb notes.
Can I enjoy these warm?
Yes, you can enjoy these treats warm straight from the wire rack or store them for later.