Cheese Straws

No party is complete without the classic cheese straw. A tasty combination of butter and cheese gets an added kick with cayenne pepper, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
Delicious Cheese Straw Appetizer

Delicious Cheese Straw Appetizer

A quick and easy appetizer of cheese straws can be creatively stacked for a charming display.

Ingredients:

1 lb. cheddar cheese
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
pinch of cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp. dry mustard
8 Tbs. butter, plus a little for greasing the pan

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

Grate cheese. Sift flour, salt, cayenne and mustard into large bowl.

Cut in butter and mix until fully combined (this can be done in a food processor).

Stir in cheese and then knead with hands until batter comes together. If necessary, add small amount of ice water.

Roll into ball, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 20 minutes (this can be done up to two days in advance of cooking).

When dough is chilled, roll to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into strips about 1/2 inch wide. Twist the dough.

Place on slightly greased baking sheet and bake until golden, about eight to 10 minutes.

These can be served room temperature or warm, and can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.

Next Up

4 Ways to Make a Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board

From savory meat and cheese boards, to vegetarian-friendly fruits and veggies, to a dessert tray full of sweet-tooth delights, we’ve got charcuterie smorgasbord ideas that will satisfy all your guests.

How to Make a Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board

Serve a spread that has all the things you’d expect on a classic charcuterie board, but give it a seasonal flair to win the holiday.

How to Make a Vegetarian-Friendly Cheese + Crudite Tray

This abundant cheese, fruit and veggie charcuterie board is perfect for potlucks, holidays, tailgates or any occasion you can think of.

How to Create a Platter of Classic Finger Food Appetizers

Make entertaining easy by serving a sampler board of classic, easy-to-assemble savory bites such as spicy wings, sweet-and-sour meatballs, loaded potato skins and more.

How to Make a Hot Chocolate Charcuterie Board

Whether hosting a dinner party, game night or looking for a special treat for the kids, you can’t go wrong with a big pot of hot cocoa served up with all the fixings, including candy, cookies and mounds of marshmallows.

Healthier-for-You Garlic Dill Veggie Dip Recipe

Nonfat Greek yogurt is the secret ingredient for making this veggie dip light in fat and calories. Garlic and herbs give it bold, rich flavor. It takes just minutes to whisk together and can be made a day ahead. Serve with an assortment of your favorite crudités. One dip and you’ll be hooked!

How to Make a Movie Night Snack Board

Whether you’re having a quiet family movie night or hosting a movie awards show, take your snacking to the next level with this charcuterie-style board full of everyone’s favorite theater treats.

How to Make an Easy Sweet and Savory Brunch Charcuterie Board

Wake up to a breakfast grazing board brimming with everything from decadent pastries to savory mainstays. This board takes the hassle out of hosting by using all pre-made and store-bought items that can be served at room temperature.

How to Make a Vegetarian Turkey-Shaped Charcuterie Board for Thanksgiving

This creative platter offers a fun yet ironic way to keep turkey on the menu while surprising vegetarian guests with an array of meat-free delights.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.