3-Ingredient Southern Cheese Straws

These 3-Ingredient Southern Cheese Straws are crisp, buttery, and full of sharp cheddar flavor. A simple homemade snack made with just cheese, butter, and flour, perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or everyday snacking.

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or sturdy wooden spoon
• Cookie press with star-shaped disk or piping bag with large star tip
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Ingredients

• 1 cup (about 115 g) finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line one or two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Place the softened butter and finely shredded cheddar cheese in a mixing bowl. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour to the cheese and butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms that is firm enough to hold its shape but soft enough to pipe or press.
4. Transfer the dough into a cookie press fitted with a star-shaped disk or a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe long, thin strips onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one. Alternatively, roll small portions of dough between palms into thin ropes.
5. Bake for approximately 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the straws feel set.
6. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cheese straws to rest for a few minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheddar for better texture. The straws become crispier as they cool. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 4–5 days. Can be frozen unbaked or baked for up to two months.