Name: Mary Berry Cheese Straws Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 250g ready-made puff pastry; 100g cheddar cheese, grated; 50g Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 egg, beaten; 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional); Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

This Mary Berry Cheese Straws recipe is a classic snack that’s simple to make and utterly delicious. Perfect for parties, picnics, or an afternoon treat, these cheese straws are buttery, flaky, and packed with cheesy goodness. They’re a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a standalone snack.

What is Mary Berry Cheese Straws?

Cheese straws are thin, crispy strips of buttery pastry flavored with cheese and a hint of seasoning. Mary Berry’s version uses a flaky puff pastry base to create a light yet indulgent treat that’s bursting with cheesy flavor.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Quick and easy: Uses ready-made puff pastry for convenience.
Delightfully cheesy: Packed with sharp cheddar and Parmesan.
Perfect for any occasion: Ideal as a snack, side, or appetizer.
Customizable: Add spices or herbs for extra flavor.
Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and bake when needed.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry Cheese Straws

250g ready-made puff pastry
100g cheddar cheese, grated
50g Parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg, beaten
1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Rolling pin
Pastry brush
Baking tray
Parchment paper

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Cheese Straws

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 3mm thick.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle half of the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the pastry. Fold the pastry in half and roll it out again to incorporate the cheese into the layers.
Season the Pastry: Sprinkle the remaining cheese, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the surface. Roll lightly with a rolling pin to press the toppings into the pastry.
Cut the Straws: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry into strips about 1cm wide and 10-12cm long. Twist each strip gently to create a spiral shape and place them on the prepared baking tray.
Egg Wash: Brush each cheese straw with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese straws are puffed up and golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cheese straws to cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

What to Serve With Mary Berry Cheese Straws

Dips: Pair with tomato salsa, garlic aioli, or a creamy cheese dip.
Soups: Perfect with tomato soup or French onion soup.
Salads: Adds a crispy, cheesy side to green or Caesar salads.
Drinks: A great snack to serve with wine, beer, or cocktails.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Mary Berry Cheese Straws

Use cold pastry: Keep the puff pastry chilled for the best results.
Don’t over-handle: Work quickly to prevent the pastry from becoming too soft.
Experiment with cheeses: Try Gruyère, Red Leicester, or a mix for different flavors.
Add herbs: Sprinkle with dried thyme, rosemary, or paprika for extra seasoning.
Bake in batches: Avoid overcrowding the tray to ensure even baking.

How Do I Store Mary Berry Cheese Straws?

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze unbaked cheese straws on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutrition Value (per cheese straw):

Calories: 120
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 0.5g

FAQs

Can I use homemade pastry instead of ready-made puff pastry?

Yes, you can use homemade puff pastry if you prefer. Ensure it is rolled out thinly and kept chilled before using to achieve the same flaky and crispy texture as ready-made pastry.

How do I make cheese straws extra crispy?

To make cheese straws extra crispy, chill the prepared straws in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps the pastry hold its shape and results in a crispier texture.

Can I freeze cheese straws?

Yes, cheese straws can be frozen. Freeze them unbaked on a baking tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag once firm. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.

What cheeses work best for cheese straws?

Cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices for cheese straws, but you can also experiment with Gruyère, Red Leicester, or a mix of sharp and mild cheeses for a variety of flavors.

Final Words

This Mary Berry Cheese Straws Recipe is a quick, easy, and irresistible snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flaky pastry and cheesy flavor, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike. Try them for your next gathering or keep a batch in the freezer for unexpected guests. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!

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