Certainly! Let’s delve into the flavorful world of Pepperoni Cheese Straws, a delightful recipe perfect for any occasion, from lovewithrecipes.com! 🧀🥓
Pepperoni Cheese Straws Recipe
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 50 cheese straws
Ingredients:
| Amount | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 cups | All-purpose flour |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 1 lb | Extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded |
| 1/2 cup | Unsalted butter, cut into pieces |
| 5 – 6 | Slices of pepperoni, finely chopped |
| 1/2 tsp | Cayenne pepper |
| 5 tbsp | Ice water, divided |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dough:
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In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese, and unsalted butter pieces. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
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With the food processor running, add 5 tablespoons of ice water gradually. Blend until the dough just begins to come together. If needed, add more water sparingly until the dough forms.
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Be careful not to over-blend the dough. It should still have a slightly crumbly texture.
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Create the Pepperoni Dough:
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Transfer the dough onto a sheet of wax paper. Divide the dough in half.
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In the same food processor (no need to clean it), add the finely chopped pepperoni slices and cayenne pepper. Pulse until the pepperoni is finely ground and well mixed with the dough.
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Take one half of the dough and blend it with the pepperoni mixture until evenly distributed. Reserve the other half of the plain cheese dough, wrapping it and chilling it for later.
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Shape the Dough:
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Divide the pepperoni dough into thirds. Roll each third into an 8-inch rope. Repeat this process with half of the reserved plain cheese dough.
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Next, on a new sheet of wax paper, arrange the 6 ropes side by side, alternating between the pepperoni and plain cheese ropes. Press them together tightly.
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Place another sheet of wax paper on top of the ropes. Use a rolling pin to gently flatten the ropes into a rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick and roughly 15 by 7 inches in size.
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Chill the Dough:
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Carefully transfer the rolled dough, still on the wax paper, onto a baking sheet. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight if preferred.
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Repeat the entire process with the remaining reserved plain cheese and pepperoni dough. You can make these sheets of dough up to 1 week in advance, storing them tightly covered in the fridge.
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Bake the Cheese Straws:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease several baking sheets.
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Using a sharp knife, cut the chilled dough crosswise into 1/2-inch-wide strips. Discard the wax paper.
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Arrange the strips on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each strip for expansion.
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Bake the cheese straws in batches in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy:
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Once baked, transfer the cheese straws to wire racks to cool completely. The aroma of these freshly baked treats will fill your kitchen!
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Serve the Pepperoni Cheese Straws as a delightful appetizer, snack, or alongside your favorite dips. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or simply as a tasty treat for yourself!
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These Pepperoni Cheese Straws are a wonderful combination of savory flavors, crispy textures, and cheesy goodness that will surely impress your friends and family. Enjoy the process of making these delicious treats, and savor every bite! 🎉🧀
