Cheese Straws

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare Oven and Pans

   • Position oven racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven and preheat to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. 2

   Combine Dry Ingredients

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, cayenne pepper, paprika, mustard powder, and black pepper until well combined.
3. 3

   Cream Butter and Cheese

   • In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large bowl with a hand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
   • Add the shredded cheddar cheese and beat on medium speed until fully incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. 4

   Form the Dough

   • With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter and cheese mixture.
   • Mix until the dough just begins to come together. It may look crumbly. Do not overmix.
   • If the dough is too dry to hold together when pinched, add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing briefly until a cohesive dough forms.
5. 5

   Shape the Straws

   • Transfer the dough to a cookie press fitted with a star or ribbon disk, or to a sturdy piping bag fitted with a large open star tip (like a Wilton 1M).
   • Press or pipe the dough into 3- to 4-inch long strips onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each straw.
6. 6

   Bake and Cool

   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and the centers are firm.
   • Let the cheese straws cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to set.
   • Carefully transfer the straws to a wire rack to cool completely. They will become crispier as they cool.