Southern 4-Ingredient Cheese Straws

 These rustic Southern 4-Ingredient Cheese Straws are an incredibly easy, classic family favorite! With a buttery, crisp texture and a warm kick of cayenne, they are the ultimate savory comfort food for your next party.

PREP TIME 15minutes mins

COOK TIME  15minutes mins

TOTAL TIME 1hour hr

INGREDIENTS

  

2 cups 225 g sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

1 cup 225 g unsalted butter, softened

2 cups 250 g all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

 

Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it is completely smooth and creamy.

Add the cheese: Add the freshly grated cheddar cheese to the bowl and mix until well combined with the butter.

Form the dough: Stir in the all-purpose flour and the cayenne pepper, mixing gently until a soft, uniform dough forms.

Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a firm disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This essential step solidifies the fat and makes the dough much easier to handle.

Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Shape the cheese straws: Roll the chilled dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into thin strips, approximately 4-5 inches long, and carefully place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cheese straws feel crisp.

Cool and serve: Allow the hot cheese straws to cool directly on the baking sheet for 5 minutes so they can firm up. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving, ensuring maximum crunch!

NOTES

If you want your cheese straws to look extra rustic and fancy for a potluck, gently twist each strip of dough a few times before placing it on the parchment paper! The twisted ridges will catch the heat in the oven, creating even more delicious, crispy, browned edges.