Easy Savory Cheese Straws Cookies – The Perfect Crispy and Cheesy Snack for Every Occasion

Looking for a savory treat that’s loaded with the sharp flavor of cheddar, a hint of garlic, and a kick of cayenne? These Easy Savory Cheese Straw Cookies are the answer! They’re crunchy, buttery, and packed with cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer for a party or simply snacking on them with a cup of tea, these cookies deliver the perfect balance of spice and savory flavor. Trust us, you won’t be able to eat just one!

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Easy Savory Cheese Straw Cookies

Cheese straws have long been a popular Southern snack, known for their crispy texture and rich flavor. This easy recipe takes all of the deliciousness of traditional cheese straws and transforms them into bite-sized cookies. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, butter, garlic, and a touch of cayenne gives these cookies a savory and slightly spicy flavor that’s irresistible. They’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual snacking.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Savory Cheese Straw Cookies

These cheese straw cookies are incredibly easy to make, and the ingredients are pantry staples you probably already have on hand. The sharp cheddar gives them a bold flavor, while the garlic powder and cayenne add just the right amount of spice. The dough comes together in minutes, and you can customize the level of crispiness depending on how long you bake them. Whether you like them chewy or crispy, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your savory cravings.

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Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, Based on 24 Cookies):

• Calories: 140 kcal
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 170mg
• Sugar: 0g

These savory cookies are the perfect indulgence, but they’re still light enough to enjoy without feeling weighed down. Pair them with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These cheese straw cookies are perfect on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of dips. Try serving them with a tangy ranch dip, a spicy mustard, or even a homemade marinara sauce for dipping. They also make a great side to a bowl of tomato soup or chili. For a fun twist, try crumbling them over a salad for a crunchy, cheesy topping.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

To store your cheese straw cookies, place them in an airtight container on the counter for up to a week. If they lose some of their crispiness, you can pop them back in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to refresh them. If you want to make the dough ahead of time, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months—just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

Fun Fact: The Origin of Cheese Straws

Cheese straws have been a Southern favorite for generations, often served at holiday parties, weddings, and family gatherings. Their origin is believed to date back to when cooks would use leftover biscuit dough, adding cheese and baking it into thin strips. Over time, cheese straws evolved into a beloved snack, with different regions adding their own variations, such as spices or different types of cheese.

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Cooking Tips

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best texture and flavor, be sure to use freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the dough.

Customize the Spice Level: If you like a little more heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper. You can also swap out the cayenne for smoked paprika or chili powder for a different flavor profile.

Press with a Fork: For that signature cheese straw cookie look, gently press the tines of a fork into the top of each cookie before baking. If the dough sticks to the fork, dip it in water before pressing.

Optional Variations

• Add Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some fresh or dried herbs to the dough. Rosemary, thyme, or even parsley would be a delicious addition.
• Use Different Cheeses: Swap out the sharp cheddar for another flavorful cheese like parmesan, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

Easy Savory Cheese Straw Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) block sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ to 1 teaspoon cayenne powder (use more or less to taste)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Use a box grater to shred the cheese and set it aside.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, use a mixer to blend the shredded cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the salt, garlic powder, and cayenne powder to the mixture and mix until well combined.
3. Add the Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the cheese mixture, blending until the dough is smooth and well combined.
4. Form the Cookies: Use a 1½ tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough, placing each scoop about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. For a decorative touch, gently press the tines of a fork into the top of each cookie. If the dough sticks to the fork, dip the fork in water before pressing.
5. Bake: Bake the cookies for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your desired texture. For a crispy exterior and chewy interior, bake for a shorter time. For a fully crispy cookie, bake for longer until golden brown.
6. Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Store any leftovers in an airtight container on the counter for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Savory Cheese Straw Cookies are the perfect snack for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cold drink, serving them at a party, or pairing them with your favorite dip, they’re sure to be a hit. With their sharp cheddar flavor and hint of spice, they’re the ultimate cheesy snack!