Classic Cheese Straws

Cheese Straws
Cheese Straws. Ian O'Leary/Dorling Kindersley/Getty Images
  • 35 mins
  • Prep: 10 mins,
  • Cook: 25 mins
  • Yield: 5 to 6 dozen (60--72 servings)
Ratings (7)

By Diana Rattray

Updated 10/16/17

Cheese straws are a very popular appetizer in the South and they are surprisingly easy to make with cheddar cheese and a little cayenne pepper. Every Southern cook has a recipe, and you will find the snack at most parties and festive gatherings.

Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor and don't skimp on the cayenne!

What You'll Need

  • 1 stick plus 6 tablespoons butter (14 tablespoons) (room temperature)
  • 3 cups cheddar cheese (sharp)
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling)
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (more or less)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

How to Make It

  1. Put the butter and cheese in the container of a food processor. Add the flour, salt, cayenne, and Worcestershire. Cover and pulse until thoroughly blended.
  2. If a food processor is not used, put the flour, salt, and cayenne in a bowl. Add the butter, cheese, and Worcestershire, and using two knives or a pastry blender, blend thoroughly.
  3. Wrap in waxed paper or plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
  1. Preheat oven to 300 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or leave it ungreased.
  2. Roll small amounts of dough into a long tube about the width of a straw and cut into desired lengths. Or, roll dough out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch thickness, cut into strips, and gently twist. If you roll them into straw shapes, use a flat block or flat wide dish bottom to roll them uniformly. Arrange the strips on the baking sheet.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the straws are crisp and lightly browned. Remove and let cool.
Nutritional Guidelines (per serving)
Calories 67
Total Fat 6 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Unsaturated Fat 2 g
Cholesterol 16 mg
Sodium 87 mg
Carbohydrates 1 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Protein 2 g
(The nutrition information on our recipes is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. Individual results may vary.)