My neighbor dropped a batch of these off and I ate the entire tin standing at the kitchen counter. Only 4 ingredients to make the most addictive bite

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)

Cheese straw ingredients arranged in mixing bowls

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and