Mary Berry Cheese Straws Recipe

Mary Berry Cheese Straws Recipe

Discover the delight of Mary Berry's Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws, a recipe celebrated for its ease and classic flavor. This savory treat, perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a companion to soups and salads, comes from the beloved cookbook "Mary Makes it Easy."

Brief Description of the Recipe Mary Berry's Cheese Straws are a quintessential British snack. Made with sharp Somerset cheddar (or any good quality cheddar if Somerset is unavailable), these straws marry the richness of cheese with a hint of mustard and cayenne pepper for a touch of spice.

Cultural or Historical Context Cheese straws have a long history in British cuisine, often featured at gatherings and tea time. Mary Berry, a doyenne of British baking, brings her easy-to-follow approach to this traditional recipe, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels.

Ingredients List

  • Sharp cheddar cheese
  • Butter
  • Flour
  • Mustard powder
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Salt

Preparation Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven and prepare baking sheets with non-stick paper.
  2. Combine the butter, flour, spices, and cheese in a food processor until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
  3. Roll out the dough, cut into strips, and bake until golden brown.

Storage and Reheating Cheese straws can be stored in an airtight container for a few days or frozen for longer preservation. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispness.

Nutritional Information While specific values depend on the exact ingredients used, cheese straws are relatively high in fat due to the cheese and butter. They provide a moderate amount of protein and small amounts of carbohydrates.

FAQ about Mary Berry's Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws

  • Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, while Somerset cheddar is recommended, any good quality cheddar will work.
  • How do I prevent the dough from crumbling? If the dough is too crumbly, gently knead it until it comes together.
  • Can cheese straws be made in advance? Absolutely, you can freeze them before baking for convenience.

Enjoy these cheese straws as a standalone snack or as an elegant addition to your next gathering. Their savory flavor and delightful crunch are sure to impress.

Original recipe by Mary Berry, found in her cookbook "Mary Makes it Easy," which also inspired a BBC2 TV series​​.

Subscribe for daily recipes. No spam, just food.