Introduction

Spicy Cheese Straws are a deliciously crunchy snack with a perfect balance of cheesy flavor and a hint of heat. These crispy strips are ideal for parties, casual snacking, or whenever you crave something savory and spicy.

Spicy Cheese Straws Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar works well)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Add the cold cubed butter to the bowl and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Gather the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Step 5: Cut the dough into strips approximately 1/2 inch wide using a knife or pizza cutter.
Step 6: Place the strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Step 7: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cheese straws are crisp and golden brown.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili powder.
Try using smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.
Swap cheddar for a sharp or aged cheese to enhance the taste.
Store leftover dough in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

Storage

Keep baked cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crispness. If they soften, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any firm cheese that melts well, such as gouda, Parmesan, or a sharp white cheddar, depending on your flavor preference.

Can I make these cheese straws ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Bake them fresh when ready for the best texture and flavor.

Spicy Cheese Straws Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 123 reviews

Crunchy and flavorful spicy cheese straws made with sharp cheese, seasoned flour, and a blend of paprika and cayenne for a perfect savory snack or appetizer.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: About 30 cheese straws 1x
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Straws Ingredients

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup all-purpose flour
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Form the Dough: Gather the mixture and knead lightly until it comes together into a firm dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Roll and Cut Straws: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into thin strips approximately 1/2 inch wide and 3 inches long.
Bake Until Crisp: Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart slightly. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cheese straws are crisp and golden brown at the edges.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the cheese straws to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them as a spicy, cheesy snack or appetizer.

Notes

For extra crispiness, chill the dough again after cutting before baking.
You can swap cheddar for other hard cheeses like Parmesan for a different flavor.
Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Keywords: Spicy cheese straws, cheesy snack, baked cheese straws, appetizer, spicy snack