on a snack board with nuts, olives, and sliced apples or grapes, and they make an easy nibble before a holiday dinner.
I also love tucking a few into lunchboxes or serving them with tomato soup or chili instead of crackers. If you’re hosting, bake them earlier in the day and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature; just set them out right before guests arrive so they stay crisp.
Southern 4-Ingredient Cheese Straws
Servings: 24–30 cheese straws

Ingredients
2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese, firmly packed
1/2 cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 1/2 cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and