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→ LET'S MAKE THEM! ♥
1. PREHEAT THE OVEN
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. CREAM THE CHEESE AND BUTTER
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sharp cheddar cheese until well combined and creamy.
Freshly grated cheddar gives these straws wonderful flavor and helps create the best texture.
3. ADD THE DRY INGREDIENTS
Add the flour, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix until a soft dough forms.
If the dough seems crumbly at first, keep mixing until the butter and cheese are evenly incorporated. Avoid adding extra liquid unless absolutely necessary.
4. SHAPE THE CHEESE STRAWS
Transfer the dough to a cookie press fitted with a star-shaped disk, or place it in a sturdy piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
Pipe long, thin strips onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Cut them into your preferred lengths.
If the dough becomes too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before shaping.
5. BAKE UNTIL GOLDEN
Bake for 12–18 minutes, depending on thickness, until the straws are lightly golden at the edges and look set.
Keep an eye on them near the end, as thin straws can brown quickly.
6. COOL AND CRISP
Let the cheese straws rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
They'll become crispier as they cool. Serve them at room temperature and watch them disappear from the platter! ♥
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✧ LITTLE SECRETS FOR THE BEST CHEESE STRAWS
★ Use sharp cheddar. It delivers that classic bold, cheesy Southern flavor.
★ Grate your own cheese. Freshly grated cheese generally blends more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
★ Don't skip the paprika. It adds a lovely warm flavor and traditional color.
★ Adjust the heat. Leave out the cayenne for a milder version, or add a little more if you love a spicy bite.
★ Chill soft dough. Cooler dough is easier to pipe and helps the straws hold their shape.
★ Watch the baking time. You want them crisp and lightly golden, not dark brown.
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❀ PERFECT FOR SERVING WITH
♥ A holiday appetizer platter
♥ Deviled eggs and savory party bites
♥ Tomato soup or creamy vegetable soup
♥ A cup of hot tea or coffee
♥ Cheese boards, family gatherings, and afternoon visits
These little savory straws bring a touch of old-fashioned Southern charm to almost any occasion!
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♥ MAKE-AHEAD & STORAGE TIPS
✓ Make ahead: Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before shaping and baking.
✓ Room temperature: Once completely cool, store the cheese straws in an airtight container for about 4–5 days for the best crispness.
✓ Keep them crisp: Make sure the straws are fully cooled before storing. Trapped warmth can create condensation and soften them.
✓ Refresh if needed: Warm them briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes, then cool before serving.
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✨ A LITTLE SOUTHERN TRADITION ✨
Golden, crisp, buttery, and packed with sharp cheddar, these Southern Cheese Straws are the kind of homemade snack that makes every gathering feel a little more special.
Simple ingredients, a touch of spice, and a whole lot of old-fashioned flavor — sometimes the classics really are the best! ♥
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✦ TELL ME IN THE COMMENTS!
Have you ever enjoyed homemade Southern Cheese Straws at a holiday gathering or family party? ♥
Do you prefer yours mild and buttery, or with a little cayenne pepper for extra kick?
I'd love to hear your favorite version! Save this recipe for your next gathering and share it with someone who loves classic Southern cooking.
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Thank you for spending a little time with us today. ❤️
✍️ Written with care by BASSMA EL-HAZIBI
