cayenne cheddar cheese straws

How to make cayenne cheddar cheese straws recipe - These crisp, crumbly canapés are particularly delicious when served still warm from the oven.

MAKES 50–60

PREP TIME 20 mins, plus chilling, COOK TIME 5–10 mins

Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1⁄2 tsp smoked paprika or ancho chile powder
1 tsp salt
1 stick (8 tbsps) butter, cut into cubes
2 cups Cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Method:
1 Put the flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, and salt in a food processor and pulse-blend. Mix in the butter and cheeses, one half at a time.

2 Blend on high speed for 2–3 minutes, or until a soft dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.

3 Preheat the oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Roll out the dough to a 1⁄2in (1cm) thick rectangle, as shown in the technique below. Cut into 7in (18cm) long and 1⁄2in (1cm) wide strips. Transfer the strips onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5–10 minutes, or until crisp.

ROLLING DOUGH
1 Remove the plastic wrap, turn out the dough onto a floured surface, and pat it down with your hands.

2 Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough evenly to a 1⁄2in (1cm) thick rectangle of the desired size.

cayenne cheddar cheese straws