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Crispy Cheddar Herb Cheese Straws

crispy cheddar herb cheese straws - featured image

These crispy cheddar and herb cheese straws are a quick and easy homemade snack with a perfect balance of sharp cheddar and aromatic herbs, delivering a crunchy, flavorful bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 1/4 cups (160 g) all-purpose flour
  • 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (rosemary and thyme), finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 23 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

  1. Grate 8 oz (225 g) of sharp cheddar cheese using a box grater.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups (160 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs (rosemary and thyme).
  3. Add 6 tablespoons (85 g) cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Cut the butter in using a pastry cutter or food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits.
  4. Fold the shredded cheddar cheese into the butter-flour mixture evenly.
  5. Slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of cold water, stirring gently until the dough just starts to come together. Avoid overworking the dough; it should be slightly crumbly but hold when pressed.
  6. Form the dough into a flat disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thickness.
  8. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) wide strips, roughly 4 inches (10 cm) long. Optionally, twist each strip gently before placing on the baking sheet.
  9. Arrange the straws on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Start checking at 12 minutes to prevent burning.
  10. Transfer the cheese straws to a wire rack to cool completely to maintain crispness. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

Keep butter cold to ensure flaky, crispy texture. Do not overwork the dough to avoid toughness. Rolling dough thin (about 1/8 inch) is key for crispness. Twist strips before baking for extra crunch and visual appeal. Cool on wire rack to maintain crispness. Reheat briefly in oven if softened. Dough can be prepared and chilled up to 24 hours in advance.

Nutrition

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