Suzie's Q

Southern Cheese Straws

· 6 - 8 T            Butter, room temperature

· 2 C               Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, room temperature

· 1 C                Unbleached, all purpose flour, sifted

· 2 t                  Baking powder

· 1 t                  Kosher salt

· ½ - 1 t           Cayenne pepper

Preheat the oven to 325.

In a mixer, cream the butter and cheese together.  Add in the salt, cayenne, baking powder and sifted flour.  Mix until the dough comes together.  If the dough is too dry, add more butter.  Parchment line (or grease) a baking sheet. Using a cookie press, place lines of the dough on the baking sheet.  The dough may also be hand rolled but will produce a denser straw.  Bake for about 25 minutes, until crisp and lightly browned.  Cool completely on a cooling rack.  Once cooled, break into desired sizes.

Yield:  Usually around 50 pieces