Southern Cheese Straws
These zesty bite-size wafers are a slightly different shape than a "straw", but they are just a delicious!
Cheese Straws are a popular appetizer or snack here in the south and they are commonly served around the holidays. You may also find these on the menu for baby showers, wedding receptions and tea parties.
Christmas parties are not complete without this treat and you may want to double the recipe because they disappear very quickly! I think I ate an entire pan when they came out of the oven!
Ingredients
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16 oz sharp white cheddar cheese
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1 & 1/2 sticks butter
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2 cups plain flour
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1/4 to 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (depending on how zesty you like them)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp salt
Directions
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Bring all ingredients to room temperature. Do no skip this step. The butter and cheese must be very, very soft in order to push through the cookie press.
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Using a stand mixer, combine butter, cheese and seasoning.
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Add flour a little at the time.
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Combine well.
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Using a cookie press and your favorite tip, place the shapes onto a baking sheet about one half inch apart.
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Bake on 325 degrees for about ten to twelve minutes or until these are slightly golden.
Note: If you don't have a cookie press, just shape these into a log and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for about thirty minutes. Slice into 1/4 inch slices and bake accordingly.
If the dough is too thick for the cookie press, place it inside the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds, just long enough to slightly soften, not melted. Do not overcook in microwave or you will have a royal mess!