Derby Day Cheese Straws (Printable version)

Crispy cheddar and Parmesan straws with a touch of cayenne for a buttery, savory snack.

# Needed ingredients:

→ Dairy

01 - 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
02 - ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
03 - ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

→ Pantry

04 - 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
05 - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
06 - ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
07 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Optional

08 - 1–2 tablespoons cold water as needed

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a food processor, combine cheddar, Parmesan, flour, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Pulse to mix thoroughly.
03 - Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
04 - If the dough is too dry, add cold water 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough just comes together without overworking.
05 - Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a rectangle approximately ¼ inch thick.
06 - Cut the dough into strips approximately ½ inch wide and 6 inches long using a sharp knife or pastry cutter.
07 - Transfer the strips to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for even baking.
08 - Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and crisp throughout.
09 - Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • Perfectly crispy with a bold cheesy flavor enhanced by Parmesan and a cayenne kick.
  • Versatile snack ideal for parties, Southern celebrations, or race day gatherings.
  • Vegetarian-friendly with simple pantry ingredients.
02 -
  • Use freshly grated cheeses for the best melting and flavor.
  • Keep the butter cold to achieve the perfect flaky texture.
  • Don’t overwork the dough to maintain a tender, crisp bite.
  • If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough briefly before rolling.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them crisp.
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