These Cheese Straws are a classic Southern appetizer—golden, flaky, and packed with sharp cheddar flavor, made with just four simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for holiday trays, cocktail parties, or a savory snack with sweet tea.
No fancy tools, no chilling—just mix, roll, slice, and bake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🧀 Only 4 ingredients—pantry staples!
- ⏱️ 10 minutes prep, 15–18 minutes bake
- 💛 One bowl + baking sheet = easy cleanup
- 💸 Costs under $5—makes 24–30 straws
- 🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes 24–30 cheese straws)
- 2 cups (8 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (or 1 tsp paprika for mild version)
- Optional: Coarse salt for sprinkling
💡 Pro Tips:
- Use real, block-shredded cheddar—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Softened butter = smooth, pliable dough.
- Cayenne adds signature Southern kick—but adjust to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Crispy, Golden, Foolproof)
1. Mix the Dough
- In a large bowl, beat butter and cheese until well combined.
- Add flour and cayenne; mix until a soft dough forms (use hands if needed).
2. Shape into Logs
- Divide dough in half.
- Roll each half into a 12-inch log (about 1.5 inches thick).
- Wrap in parchment or plastic; chill 15 minutes (optional but helps slicing).
3. Slice & Bake
