Desserts > Pastries > Puff Pastry > Cheese Straws Recipe
Classic Cheese Straws
Flaky, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, these cheese straws are a perfect appetizer or snack. Made with simple ingredients and puff pastry, they're surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients
- 1 package (14-16 oz) Puff Pastry
- 6 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 Egg
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the cheese is evenly coated with the flour mixture. This will help prevent the cheese from melting out too much during baking.
Assemble the Cheese Straws
Lightly flour a clean work surface. Unfold the puff pastry sheet. Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture evenly over one half of the puff pastry. Fold the other half of the pastry over the cheese, creating a sandwich. Gently press down to help the cheese adhere to the pastry.
Cut and Twist
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into strips about 1/2 inch wide. Pick up each strip and gently twist it several times to create a spiral shape. This twisting is what gives the cheese straws their signature look and helps them bake evenly.
Bake the Cheese Straws
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the twisted cheese straws on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Brush the tops of the cheese straws with the beaten egg. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily.
Cool and Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cheese straws cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own or paired with soup or salad.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 100g of product)
Please note that these are estimated values and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Other Important Considerations for Nutrition
Cheese straws are relatively high in fat and sodium, primarily due to the cheese and puff pastry. Consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. You can reduce the sodium content by using low-sodium cheese. Consider serving them with vegetables or a dipping sauce with low-fat yogurt to balance the meal.
FAQ
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Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! You can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or Pepper Jack. Just make sure the cheese is firm enough to grate. -
Can I freeze the cheese straws?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the unbaked cheese straws on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. -
My cheese straws are burning on the bottom. What can I do?
Make sure your oven is properly preheated. You can also try using a double baking sheet to insulate the bottom and prevent burning. Alternatively, lower the oven temperature slightly and bake for a longer time.