Crunchy homemade cheese straws, golden and cheesy, piled on a plate like the perfect party snack.
These Cheese Straws are buttery, crisp, and packed with cheesy flavor. They’re the kind of snack that disappears fast at parties and holiday tables. Bonus: they’re easy to make and taste way better than store-bought.
The Crunchy Little Snack Everyone Keeps Grabbing
If you need a salty snack with big flavor, Cheese Straws are it. They’re crisp, cheesy, and just a little bit fancy, even though the ingredients are simple.
The standout trick is using cold butter and sharp cheddar. Cold butter helps create that flaky bite, and sharp cheddar gives you bold flavor without needing extra seasoning.
Make a batch, set them out, and watch people “just take one more.”
Why You’ll Love This Cheese Straws
- Party favorite: Perfect for snack boards and holiday spreads.
- Crispy and cheesy: Big cheddar flavor in every bite.
- Easy to make: Simple dough and quick baking time.
- Make-ahead friendly: Stays crisp for days in a container.
- Custom spice level: Keep mild or add a tiny kick.
- Better than store-bought: Fresher flavor and better crunch.
Ingredients for Cheese Straws
Dough
- Sharp cheddar cheese: The main flavor; freshly shredded melts and tastes best.
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure and helps the straws hold their shape.
- Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and flakiness; keep it cold.
- Salt: Boosts the cheese flavor.
- Dry mustard powder: Adds classic savory flavor; a little goes a long way.
- Cayenne pepper: Optional gentle heat; use a pinch for mild.
- Black pepper optional: Adds a warm, savory finish.
How to Make Cheese Straws
- 1. Preheat the oven. Heat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Mix the dry ingredients. In a bowl, whisk flour, salt, mustard powder, and cayenne until combined.
- 3. Cut in the butter and add cheese. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in shredded cheddar until the dough starts to clump together. If it feels dry, keep mixing for 30 seconds. It will come together.
- 4. Chill the dough. Chill for 15–20 minutes so it’s easier to shape and bakes up crisp.
- 5. Shape the straws. Use a cookie press if you have one, or roll small ropes by hand and place on the sheet. Keep them about the same thickness for even baking.
- 6. Bake until golden. Bake 10–14 minutes until the edges look golden and the tops look set. They will crisp more as they cool.
- 7. Cool completely. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then move to a rack. Once fully cool, they should be crisp and snappy.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Straws
- Shred your own cheese: It melts better and tastes stronger.
- Keep butter cold: Cold butter helps the texture stay crisp.
- Chill before baking: Helps the straws hold shape and bake evenly.
- Don’t overbake: Pull when lightly golden; they finish crisping as they cool.
- Make them even: Similar size means they bake at the same speed.
- Store airtight: Crispness stays best when sealed.
Variations & Substitutions
- Mild version: Skip cayenne and use a pinch of black pepper.
- Spicy version: Add a little more cayenne or a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Different cheese: Try pepper jack or a cheddar blend for a twist.
- Herb twist: Add dried thyme or rosemary for a savory change.
- Sesame top: Sprinkle sesame seeds before baking for extra crunch.
- Twist shapes: Make short sticks or simple twists for a fun look.
- Cracker style: Roll dough and cut into squares for cheese crackers.
Make-Ahead & Freezing
- Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Make ahead: Bake the day before a party and keep sealed.
- Freeze dough: Freeze shaped, unbaked straws for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes.
- Freeze baked: Freeze baked straws for up to 1 month; re-crisp in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a veggie tray and dips for an easy snack board.
- Add to soups and salads for a crunchy side.
- Pair with tea sandwiches for a party spread.
- Great for holiday snack tins.
- Set out with fruit and nuts for a simple appetizer table.
Reader Review
These Cheese Straws were so crispy and cheesy. They stayed crunchy for days in a container and were perfect for a party snack board. I’m making a double batch next time.
Cheese Straws Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10–14 minutes
Total Time: about 45 minutes
Yield: about 40 straws
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern-inspired
Diet: Vegetarian
If you make these Cheese Straws, leave a rating and a comment. Do you like them mild, or with a little kick?