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Delightful Puff Pastry Cheese Straws: A British Classic

Puff pastry cheese straws are a delightful snack that effortlessly combines crispiness, flakiness, and rich, cheesy flavours. Perfect for any occasion, these savoury snacks are a staple at British gatherings, whether it’s a festive party, a cosy family get-together, or a casual afternoon tea. With their simple ingredients and quick preparation, cheese straws are a must-try for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers alike.

What Are Cheese Straws?

Cheese straws are made from crisp yet tender strips of puff pastry, generously sprinkled with a mixture of cheese and spices. Traditionally, they are baked until golden and served warm or at room temperature. The beauty of cheese straws lies in their versatility; you can enjoy them as an appetiser, a snack, or even as part of a cheese board.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The fundamental ingredients for cheese straws are straightforward, making them easy to whip up at home:

• Puff Pastry: You can either make your own or opt for ready-made puff pastry, which is widely available in supermarkets. For beginners, pre-rolled pastry saves time and effort.

• Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice due to its robust flavour, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or a tangy Stilton for a unique twist.

• Egg Wash: A simple mixture of beaten egg and a splash of milk or water will give the cheese straws a beautiful golden shine when baked.

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper can enhance the flavour of the cheese and pastry.

A Simple Recipe for Puff Pastry Cheese Straws

Here’s a quick and easy recipe to make your own cheese straws:

Ingredients:

• 375g puff pastry
• 150g grated cheese (Cheddar is ideal)
• 1 egg (beaten)
• A pinch of salt
• A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
• Flour (for dusting)

Method:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, take the puff pastry and roll it out to about 3mm thick. Aim for a rectangular shape to make cutting easier.

3. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Evenly sprinkle the grated cheese over one-half of the pastry. Add the salt and, if using, the paprika or cayenne pepper for extra flavour.

4. Fold and Roll: Fold the uncovered half of the pastry over the cheese, pressing gently to seal. Roll the pastry out again to ensure the cheese is distributed evenly.

5. Cut into Straws: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the pastry into strips about 1cm wide. Twist each strip gently to create a spiral effect.

6. Egg Wash: Place the cheese straws on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a lovely golden finish.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown.

8. Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious cheese straws warm or at room temperature!

Storing Cheese Straws

If you have any cheese straws left over (which is unlikely!), they can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two. However, for the best texture, they are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. You can also freeze the unbaked cheese straws; simply place them on a tray in the freezer, and once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Puff pastry cheese straws are a deliciously simple treat that brings comfort and joy to the table. Their flaky, cheesy goodness is sure to impress your guests, making them a splendid addition to any gathering. So why not roll up your sleeves and give this classic British snack a go? With effortless preparation and delightful results, you’ll find these cheese straws becoming a firm favourite in your culinary repertoire.

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