Light and Crispy Cheese Straws
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Add Butter and Egg: Add the softened unsalted butter and the large egg to the bowl. Mix all ingredients together until a dough forms. Ensure that the cheeses and spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Shape the Dough: Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a ball. This makes it easier to roll out evenly.
Roll Out the Dough: Place one dough ball between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll it out into a rectangular shape, about 1/8 inch thick. Repeat with the second dough ball.
Cut the Dough: Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the rolled-out dough into thin strips, approximately ½ inch wide and 4-5 inches long. These will become your cheese straws.


Arrange on Baking Sheet: Carefully transfer the strips onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cheese straw to ensure they bake evenly.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese straws are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-browning.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cheese straws from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Serve them warm or at room temperature.
Storage
Store the cooled cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain crispy and delicious for several days.
Serving Size and Nutrition Information (Per Serving, approximately 2 cheese straws)
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 230mg
Total Carbohydrate: 12g
Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
Total Sugars: 0.5g
Protein: 6g
Tips for Making Lighter Cheese Straws
Cheese: Opt for reduced-fat versions of cheddar and Parmesan to lower the overall fat content and calories.
Butter: Using unsalted butter keeps the flavor rich without adding extra salt. You can also try using a light butter spread to further reduce fat.
Portion Control: Enjoy these cheese straws in moderation to keep your snack calories in check.
Conclusion
These light and crispy cheese straws are a delightful snack or appetizer option that’s easy to make and full of cheesy goodness. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with a cup of tea, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the savory flavors and satisfying crunch without worrying about excessive points or calories!