Introduction

Welcome to a savory delight that perfectly balances flavor and health-conscious choices: Weight Watchers Cheese Straws. These crispy, cheesy snacks are ideal for those following the WW (Weight Watchers) program or anyone looking for a guilt-free treat. With a satisfying crunch and rich cheese flavor, they make a perfect addition to your snack repertoire or as a party appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Mix Cheeses and Butter: In a large bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and softened butter. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add Seasonings: Add garlic powder, paprika, and salt to the cheese mixture. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings evenly.
  4. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add all-purpose flour to the cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition. The dough will start to come together and become slightly crumbly.
  5. Form Dough: Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, to the dough until it forms a cohesive ball. You may not need to use all of the water, so add it gradually.
  6. Shape Straws: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick between two sheets of parchment paper.
  7. Cut into Straws: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into thin strips, about 1/2 inch wide and 4 inches long. Carefully transfer the strips to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
  8. 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.
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cheese straws cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Useful Information

  • Storage: Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven to restore crispiness.
  • Variations: Experiment with different cheese blends or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Introduction

Welcome to a savory delight that perfectly balances flavor and health-conscious choices: Weight Watchers Cheese Straws. These crispy, cheesy snacks are ideal for those following the WW (Weight Watchers) program or anyone looking for a guilt-free treat. With a satisfying crunch and rich cheese flavor, they make a perfect addition to your snack repertoire or as a party appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened1/2 teaspoon garlic powder1/2 teaspoon paprika1/4 teaspoon salt1 cup all-purpose flour2 tablespoons cold water
    • Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.Mix Cheeses and Butter: In a large bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and softened butter. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend until smooth and creamy.Add Seasonings: Add garlic powder, paprika, and salt to the cheese mixture. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings evenly.Incorporate Flour: Gradually add all-purpose flour to the cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition. The dough will start to come together and become slightly crumbly.Form Dough: Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, to the dough until it forms a cohesive ball. You may not need to use all of the water, so add it gradually.Shape Straws: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick between two sheets of parchment paper.Cut into Straws: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into thin strips, about 1/2 inch wide and 4 inches long. Carefully transfer the strips to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.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.Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cheese straws cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

    • Useful Information

  • Storage: Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven to restore crispiness.Variations: Experiment with different cheese blends or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

    • Nutritional Information (per serving, makes about 24 straws):
      • Calories: 60
      • Total Fat: 4g
      • Saturated Fat: 2g
      • Cholesterol: 10mg
      • Sodium: 100mg
      • Total Carbohydrates: 4g
      • Dietary Fiber: 0g
      • Sugars: 0g
      • Protein: 2g
    • SmartPoints: Each cheese straw is approximately 2 WW (Weight Watchers) SmartPoints when using the WW points system.

    Conclusion

    These Weight Watchers Cheese Straws are a flavorful and satisfying snack option that fits seamlessly into a balanced diet. With the delicious combination of reduced-fat cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, they offer a guilt-free way to indulge in a crunchy treat. Perfect for gatherings or as a snack on the go, these cheese straws are sure to please both adults and kids alike. Enjoy the simplicity of making them at home and savor the cheesy goodness without compromising your wellness goals.