Looking for a savory, low-carb appetizer that will be a hit at any gathering? These keto cheese straws are the answer! This recipe transforms the classic southern cheese straw into a keto-friendly delight. These cheesy almond flour and cheddar crisps, shaped into fun and beautiful forms, make a delicious and addictive low-carb snack. Tender and crisp, they will disappear faster than pizza in a college dorm room.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
These cheese straws are incredibly flavorful, boasting a cheesy, salty taste that pairs perfectly with a cocktail or a glass of wine. It is quick and easy to make. You simply make the dough in a food processor, roll it out, cut into straws, and bake. In about 15 minutes, you'll have a savory, low-carb snack.
Ingredients for Keto Cheese Straws
- Almond flour: Finely ground almond flour is recommended. Almond meal may also work.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is essential for the best flavor. Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar is highly recommended. You can also experiment with other hard cheeses like Pepper Jack or smoked Gouda. Finely grated cheese at home from a block of cheese is preferable to store-bought ready-grated cheese.
- Parmesan: You can use fresh or grated from a carton.
- Butter: Use cold, cubed butter for easier cutting.
- Egg yolk: Room temperature ingredients are critical for softer dough.
- Spices: Salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper add flavor. Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning can also be used.
- Xanthan gum: This helps to bind the ingredients.
- Hemp seed: Hemp seeds add 0 net carbs and give the food a nice texture.
- Psyllium husk: This acts as a binder. If you don't use it, the cheese straws will be more crumbly.
- Optional add-ins: Onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, chives, or thyme can be added for additional flavor.
Making Keto Cheese Straws: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing the Dough
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C) and line two baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine almond flour, coconut flour, salt, xanthan gum, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Pulse a few times to combine.
- Scatter cold, cubed butter and grated cheese over the dry ingredients. Add the egg yolk.
- Pulse until well combined and the dough gathers into a ball.
Shaping the Straws
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with an open star tip (such as Wilton 1M or Ateco #824).
- Pipe the dough into 3-inch lines on the prepared baking sheets, keeping them close together. Alternatively, use a cookie press with a star tip to create fun shapes.
- If rolling the dough, make sure the dough is well chilled before rolling out. Roll out right on the silpat mat that you’re planning to bake it on.
Baking
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until just golden brown.
- Turn off the oven and let the straws sit inside for 5 more minutes to crisp up.
Cooling and Storing
- Let the cheese straws cool completely on the baking sheets. They are very delicate when warm.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Tips for Perfect Keto Cheese Straws
- Use room temperature ingredients: This is crucial for a softer dough.
- Grate cheese and cube butter when cold: This makes them easier to cut and grate, respectively.
- Use a good food processor: This ensures the ingredients are combined well.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheets: The straws don't spread much, but leave a little space for even baking.
- Watch the baking time: Bake until just golden brown to avoid burning.
- Let cool completely: This allows the straws to crisp up properly.
- Make sure the dough is well chilled before rolling out: It tends to be very sticky if it’s not cold enough.
- Roll out right on the silpat mat: Follow the instructions for cutting exactly or they will crumble.
- Shredded cheese from the grocery store isn’t as good as freshly grated: The reason is that the shredded cheese doesn’t stick together in the bag because they add anti caking chemicals like cellulose. Worse, it doesn’t have near the flavor either.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Cheese: Experiment with different hard cheeses like Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or smoked Gouda. You can also mix and match cheeses.
- Spices: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or Creole seasoning to your liking. Add other spices like onion powder, garlic powder, or paprika.
- Herbs: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, chives, or thyme.
- Bacon: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the dough for a smoky flavor.
- Nuts: Swap out the almond flour for pecan flour for a different flavor profile.
- Sesame seeds: Roll the dough in sesame seeds before baking for added texture and flavor.
- Egg wash and toppings: Brush the dough before baking with a little egg white and sprinkle with salt crystals, sesame seeds, Parmesan cheese, or coarsely cracked black pepper.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these keto cheese straws as an appetizer with cocktails or wine.
- Enjoy them with a bowl of low-carb tomato soup.
- Add them to a charcuterie board for a salty, crunchy element.
- Nibble on them as a satisfying afternoon snack.
Nutritional Information
These keto cheese straws are low in carbs, with approximately 1g net carb per straw. They are also a good source of protein and fat.
Other Keto-Friendly Snack Ideas
If you're looking for more keto-friendly snack options, try these:
- Ham Pinwheels
- Cream Cheese Fat Bombs
- Buttery Homemade Crackers
- Spicy Italian Flaxseed Crackers
- Dill Pickle Dip
- Bacon Chipotle Deviled Eggs
Pair with Keto Cocktails
Complete the experience with a low-carb cocktail. Some suggestions include:
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
- Low Carb Bourbon Milk Punch
- Low Carb Vanilla Old Fashioned
- Low Carb Dirty Shirley
- Low Carb Blood and Sand Cocktail
A Healthier Twist on a Classic
These keto cheese straws offer a healthier alternative to traditional cheese straws, made with almond flour and without the added carbs from wheat flour. They are perfect for those following a ketogenic or gluten-free diet, or anyone looking for a delicious and guilt-free snack.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto