Farmhouse Gouda Cheese Straws Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 2 cups Dutch Cheeseman Farmhouse Gouda, shredded
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).

3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded Farmhouse Gouda until evenly distributed.

5. Form the Dough: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Roll Out the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

7. Cut the Straws: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into strips about 1/2 inch wide and 6-8 inches long.

8. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the strips to the prepared baking sheet, placing them about 1/2 inch apart. Brush the strips lightly with the beaten egg. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds.

9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese straws are golden brown and crispy.

10. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cheese straws cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Farmhouse Gouda Cheese Straws, perfect for snacking or as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering!