Spicy Cheddar and Rosemary Straws are the perfect savory snack, effortlessly combining the sharpness of cheddar with the fragrant, earthy aroma of rosemary. These crispy straws are a surefire hit for any gathering or a cozy night in.
The backbone of this recipe is all-purpose flour, which gives the straws their structure. A dash of salt enhances all the flavors, while cayenne pepper adds an exciting kick. The magic touch is fresh rosemary, providing that distinctive aromatic note. For richness and flakiness, we rely on unsalted butter, which should be chilled to ensure our dough has the right texture. Of course, the star of the show is sharp cheddar cheese, offering a robust, tangy flavor. Finally, water helps bind everything into a workable dough.
These straws make a fantastic addition to a cheese board, adding a homemade touch. They pair beautifully with tomato soup or a fresh green salad. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a creamy dip or spread.
First things first, get your oven heating to 375°F (190°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper — you'll thank yourself later for the easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and rosemary. This dry mix sets the stage for our straws.
Next, toss in the cubed butter. You can use a pastry cutter, or if you're like me and enjoy getting hands-on, use your fingers to blend the butter into the flour mixture. You're aiming for a coarse crumb texture here. Once that's done, stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it's evenly distributed throughout the mix.
Now, gradually add the water, a tablespoon at a time. Mix until you have a dough that comes together nicely. If it's too crumbly, add a tiny bit more water. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness gives us the perfect balance between crisp and chewy.
With a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the dough into long strips about 1/2-inch wide. Transfer these to your prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until they're golden brown and crisp. Once done, transfer your straws to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
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