Print

Crispy Derby Day Cheese Straws Recipe with Sharp Cheddar and Cayenne

crispy derby day cheese straws - featured image
Print Recipe

These crispy cheese straws combine sharp cheddar with a subtle cayenne kick for a perfect quick and easy snack, ideal for Derby Day or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 4 to 5 tablespoons (60–75 ml) cold water
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Grate 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) of sharp cheddar cheese using a box grater.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups (240 g) sifted all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (if using).
  3. Add 1/2 cup (113 g) cold, cubed unsalted butter. Cut the butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
  4. Stir the grated cheddar into the flour and butter mixture evenly.
  5. Slowly add 4 tablespoons (60 ml) cold water, mixing gently with a fork. Add an extra tablespoon if needed until the dough comes together but is not sticky.
  6. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently just to bring it together. Flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness.
  8. Slice the dough into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) wide strips, about 4 inches (10 cm) long, using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  9. Place strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing slightly apart. Brush each strip lightly with beaten egg.
  10. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, checking closely to avoid burning.
  11. Transfer cheese straws to a wire rack to cool and crisp further before serving.

Notes

Use cold butter and do not overmix to achieve flaky layers. Watch baking time closely to avoid burning. Freshly grated sharp cheddar melts better than pre-shredded cheese. If dough is too soft, chill again before rolling. Do not overcrowd baking sheet to keep straws crispy. For extra flavor, sprinkle flaky sea salt before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese straws, sharp cheddar, cayenne, crispy snack, Derby Day, Southern snack, easy cheese straws, savory snack

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/crispy-derby-day-cheese-straws-recipe-with-sharp-cheddar-and-cayenne-easy-perfect-snack/