Classic Southern Cheese Straws

The Perfect Snack: Classic Southern Cheese Straws

When it comes to Southern cuisine, few recipes are as iconic and universally loved as Classic Southern Cheese Straws. These buttery, flaky, and delightfully cheesy treats are a staple in Southern homes, often served at family gatherings, holiday parties, or as an everyday snack. They are not only easy to make, but they also capture the comforting essence of homemade goodness, which is why they remain a favorite across generations.

Traditionally, Southern cheese straws were crafted to use up extra cheese and butter, which makes them both practical and delicious. Over time, they’ve evolved into a versatile appetizer or snack that pairs perfectly with almost anything—from cocktails at a dinner party to a simple afternoon tea. While the recipe calls for just a handful of pantry staples, the magic lies in how these ingredients come together to create a texture that’s both crisp and tender.

For those who enjoy a touch of spice, cheese straws can be easily customized by adjusting the cayenne pepper. This small addition adds a subtle heat that perfectly balances the richness of the cheddar cheese. Moreover, the use of freshly grated sharp cheddar ensures an authentic flavor that sets this recipe apart from store-bought options.

Making Classic Southern Cheese Straws at home is not only fun but also allows for creativity. You can shape the dough into long straws, short bites, or even festive shapes for the holidays. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of cheesy, savory straws that are sure to impress your family and friends.

So, whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a satisfying snack, this recipe delivers every time. Why not whip up a batch today and enjoy the irresistible taste of Southern tradition?

INGREDIENTS
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp heavy cream or water (as needed for consistency)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350°F: First, preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking. Next, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats, which will help prevent sticking and make cleanup much easier.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In the meantime, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika in a medium bowl. This crucial step ensures the spices are evenly distributed, giving each bite a balanced flavor.
3. Cream cheese and butter: Then, in a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the shredded cheddar cheese and softened butter. Continue mixing until the mixture is creamy, smooth, and thoroughly combined. For the best results, always choose freshly grated cheese, as it provides superior texture and flavor.
4. Incorporate dry ingredients: After that, gradually add the dry ingredients to the cheese mixture. Make sure to mix on low speed until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky, so proceed carefully to achieve the right consistency.
5. Adjust consistency: If, at this point, the dough feels too dry or crumbly, slowly add heavy cream or water, 1 tsp at a time. This adjustment will help achieve a pipeable consistency, which is essential for shaping the dough properly.
6. Pipe or press dough: Once the dough is ready, transfer it to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip (or a similar large tip for textured straws). For the best results, use a tip that creates ridges, as this helps achieve the classic appearance and crisp texture. Alternatively, you can use a cookie press. Carefully pipe the dough into 3–4-inch strips onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for even baking.
7. Bake until golden: Now, place the trays in the preheated oven and bake the cheese straws for 14–16 minutes, or until they turn lightly golden around the edges. During baking, be sure to rotate the trays halfway through for consistent browning.
8. Cool and enjoy: Finally, remove the cheese straws from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, store the cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to one week.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use sharp cheddar cheese: The sharper the cheese, the more pronounced the flavor of the cheese straws. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
• Customize the spice level: For a milder version, reduce the cayenne to ¼ tsp. For extra heat, increase it to ¾ tsp or add a pinch of chili powder.
• Get creative with shapes: Use cookie cutters or shape the dough by hand for fun variations, especially for holidays or events.