If you’ve ever wandered through the bustling streets of the South, you might recall the delightful, savory scent wafting from kitchens—especially those offering game-day treats. The first time I tried Southern Cheese Straws, I knew I’d discovered something special. These irresistible bites are a perfect blend of rich, sharp cheddar and a spicy kick that beckons to be savored.
Imagine hosting a gathering where platters of these flaky, cheesy delights are the stars—everyone will be clamoring for the recipe! Not only are they crowd-pleasers, but they also whisk together easily and bake in just 12 minutes. Say goodbye to bland snacks and hello to a flavor-packed adventure that elevates your homemade cooking game. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them during a cozy movie night, or snacking on them just because, these Southern Cheese Straws are sure to impress. Ready to whip up a batch? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Southern Cheese Straws a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors: The explosion of sharp cheddar combined with spices brings an exciting twist to your typical snack.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 32 minutes, these straws fit perfectly into any busy schedule.
Perfect for gatherings: With 60 servings per batch, they’re ideal for parties, game nights, or casual get-togethers.
Versatile snacking: Serve them as appetizers, alongside cocktails, or simply enjoy them on their own!
Kid-approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist these cheesy delights, making them a family favorite.
These Southern Cheese Straws not only elevate your appetizer game but also make your homemade cooking shine. Get ready to impress everyone with this tasty treat!
Southern Cheese Straws Ingredients
• To create these scrumptious Southern Cheese Straws, gather the following ingredients:
For the Dough
- Butter – 1 ½ cups, softened for easy blending and a rich flavor.
- Extra sharp Cheddar cheese – 1 pound, shredded, to ensure a bold, cheesy taste.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon, enhances the overall flavor of the cheese straws.
- Cayenne pepper – 1 teaspoon, adds a delightful kick that balances well with cheese.
- Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon, brings a smoky depth to these savory snacks.
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon, infuses a warm, aromatic character into the dough.
- All-purpose flour – 4 cups, forms the base of our cheesy straws, giving them the perfect texture.
These Southern Cheese Straws are easy to make with these simple yet delicious ingredients!
How to Make Southern Cheese Straws
-
Preheat the oven to 350℉. This step is crucial to ensure your cheese straws bake evenly and achieve a golden-brown finish.
-
Prepare a baking sheet by covering it with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze, so you can focus on enjoying your delicious creations!
-
Beat together the butter, cheddar cheese, salt, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a heavy-duty stand mixer at medium speed. Mix until everything is perfectly blended and creamy, about 2-3 minutes will do.
-
Add the flour incrementally, beating just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the texture to remain light and airy while still holding together.
-
Spoon the mixture into a cookie press equipped with a star-shaped disk. This tool will help you create those lovely shapes we all adore.
-
Shape the mixture into long ribbons on the prepared baking sheets. Keep the ribbons spaced apart, as they will expand slightly while baking.
-
Cut the ribbons into 4-inch pieces with a knife or pizza cutter for that classic straws look. Each bite should be just the right size for popping into your mouth!
-
Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, watching closely until they are lightly browned. The aroma wafting from your oven will have everyone curious!
-
Remove the cheese straws from the oven and transfer them to wire racks to cool. This will help them maintain their crunchiness and avoid getting soggy.
-
Sprinkle with seasoned salt if desired for an extra burst of flavor. As they cool, they’ll reach the perfect texture for snacking!
Optional: Serve with a creamy dip for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Southern Cheese Straws
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter is softened. This helps in creating a creamy, well-mixed dough, leading to better-textured cheese straws.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough straws that lose their flakiness.
• Consistent Shapes: For even baking, try to keep the ribbons uniform in width. This ensures all pieces cook evenly and come out perfectly golden.
• Cooling Matters: Allow the cheese straws to cool completely on wire racks. This helps them maintain their crispiness and prevents sogginess.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the spices or cheese varieties. Adding herbs or different cheese can give your Southern Cheese Straws a unique twist!
Make Ahead Options
These Southern Cheese Straws are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the dough come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before transferring it into a cookie press to shape the straws. Additionally, you can also bake the cheese straws ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other; instead, place parchment paper between layers. When it’s time to serve, just give them a quick bake at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore that delightful crunch. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy scrumptious Southern Cheese Straws with minimal last-minute fuss!
What to Serve with Southern Cheese Straws?
Enjoy these delightful bites alongside dishes that complement their cheesy, spicy crunch and enhance your gathering.
-
Fresh Vegetable Platter: A variety of crisp, fresh veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of cheese straws. The crunch of carrots, celery, and bell peppers offer a lovely balance that guests will appreciate.
-
Creamy Spinach Dip: This rich yet smooth dip pairs beautifully with the straws, making for a satisfying and savory combination. Imagine the delightful contrast of creamy and crunchy textures as you dip!
-
Tangy BBQ Sauce: A zesty BBQ sauce adds a burst of flavor to your cheese straws and turns them into a finger-licking snack. This unexpected pairing will have your guests raving!
-
Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: This luscious spread on a platter brings richness alongside a burst of herby freshness. It creates an inviting interaction with the cheese straws that everyone will love.
-
Crispy Salad: A light, crispy salad tossed with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of cheese straws. Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and radishes add color and crunch to your table.
-
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the bold flavors of your cheese straws, creating a delightful sipping experience. The wine’s crispness adds a refreshing lift.
-
Lemon Bars for Dessert: This sweet and tangy treat is a perfect way to finish off your snacking adventure. The brightness of lemon bars creates a harmonious end to the savory bites before.
These serving suggestions elevate your Southern Cheese Straws, ensuring every bite is deliciously memorable!
How to Store and Freeze Southern Cheese Straws
Room Temperature: Store cooled cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, store in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container, allowing them to maintain their flavor and crunch.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cheese straws in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, reheat frozen cheese straws in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, until warm and crispy. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors of your Southern Cheese Straws anytime!
Southern Cheese Straws Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this delightful recipe to match your taste preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a similar texture without wheat.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper to 1 ½ teaspoons for an extra layer of heat that spice lovers will adore.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme for a fragrant, earthy flavor that will elevate your cheese straws.
- Cheese Variety: Swap out the sharp cheddar for pepper jack or gouda to create different flavor profiles your guests will rave about.
- Bacon Flavored: Incorporate ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon into the dough for a smoky, savory upgrade that’s hard to resist.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle with honey before serving to complement the cheesy flavor with a hint of sweetness that’s simply divine.
- Nutty Texture: Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch that adds both flavor and texture.
- Vegetable Infusion: Mix in 1 cup of finely chopped spinach or sundried tomatoes for a burst of color and nutrition in each cheesy bite.
These variations allow you to create a one-of-a-kind snack that’s uniquely yours!
Southern Cheese Straws Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cheese for Southern Cheese Straws?
When choosing cheese, opt for extra sharp cheddar for the best flavor impact. Look for cheese that is firm and free of excessive moisture. Aged varieties will provide a deeper taste, while freshly shredded cheese will melt smoothly into the dough. Avoid blocks that have dark spots or are overly crumbly, indicating they may not be fresh.
What is the best way to store leftover Southern Cheese Straws?
Store your cooled cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best crunch and flavor. If you need to store them longer, transfer them to the refrigerator where they can stay fresh for up to 1 week. Make sure to keep them sealed to protect against moisture and preserve their crispy texture.
Can I freeze Southern Cheese Straws, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze Southern Cheese Straws, first allow the baked straws to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen straws to a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible, and label with the date. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
I overmixed the dough; how can I salvage my Southern Cheese Straws?
If you’ve accidentally overmixed the dough, fear not! While the texture might not be as flaky as you intended, you can still bake them. Make sure to slice the shapes a bit thicker to help them hold up. They may not be as light, but they will still taste delicious! Next time, remember to mix the flour in just until it’s incorporated to maintain that perfect light texture.
Are Southern Cheese Straws suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Since this recipe contains all-purpose flour, it’s not gluten-free. However, if you or your guests have gluten sensitivities, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose can substitute cup-for-cup for regular flour—most modern blends do! Give them a little taste test for flavor adjustments as needed.
Can pets eat Southern Cheese Straws?
While cheese in moderation isn’t harmful to most pets, Southern Cheese Straws contain spices like cayenne pepper, which can be irritating to animals. It’s best to keep these treats for your human guests only. If you want to share a special snack with your pet, consider plain cheddar without spices instead!
Irresistible Southern Cheese Straws for Your Next Gathering
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350℉.
- Prepare a baking sheet by covering it with parchment paper.
- Beat together the butter, cheddar cheese, salt, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a heavy-duty stand mixer at medium speed until creamy.
- Add the flour incrementally, mixing until just combined.
- Spoon the mixture into a cookie press equipped with a star-shaped disk.
- Shape the mixture into long ribbons on the prepared baking sheets.
- Cut the ribbons into 4-inch pieces with a knife or pizza cutter.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, until lightly browned.
- Remove the cheese straws from the oven and transfer them to wire racks to cool.
- Sprinkle with seasoned salt if desired.