Introduction

Spicy Cheese Straws are a delightful snack that combines the rich flavors of sharp cheese with a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick. These crispy, golden straws are perfect for parties, appetizers, or a savory treat anytime.

Spicy Cheese Straws Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, grated cheese, and cayenne pepper.
Step 2: Add the chilled butter and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Gather the mixture and knead lightly until it forms a smooth dough. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 5: Fit a piping bag with a star nozzle and fill it with the dough. Pipe thin, long straws onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the straws are crisp and golden. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika alongside the cayenne.
Use a mix of cheeses, such as Parmesan and cheddar, for more depth.
If you don’t have a piping bag, roll the dough into thin logs and slice into sticks before baking.

Storage

Store the cooled cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them crisp, avoid humid environments. If they soften, you can refresh them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before piping and baking. Just make sure to bring it back to a workable consistency if it becomes too firm.

Can I freeze the cheese straws?

Absolutely. After baking and cooling, freeze the cheese straws in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Spicy Cheese Straws Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 117 reviews

These Spicy Cheese Straws are a crispy, savory snack featuring a buttery dough enriched with sharp cheese and a kick of cayenne pepper. Perfect for entertaining or a flavorful nibble alongside drinks, they bake to a golden crisp with a delightful spicy finish.

Author: Dana
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cheese straws 1x
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Combine the flour, grated cheese, cayenne pepper, and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. This creates the base of the dough, ensuring a flaky texture.
Form the Dough: Gather the mixture together and knead gently until it forms a smooth dough. Be careful not to overwork it to keep the cheese straws tender.
Pipe the Dough: Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star or plain round nozzle. Pipe the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming long thin strips or shapes as desired.
Bake: Place the tray in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese straws turn crisp and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning due to the cheese content.
Cool and Serve: Remove the cheese straws from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious snack or appetizer.