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Spelt Cheese Straws

Side-angle close-up photo of a stack of golden, crispy spelt cheese straws in a small ceramic bowl.

Why These Cheese Straws Stand Out

These spelt cheese straws deliver crisp layers and strong flavour. The dough mixes easily and bakes in minutes. The texture stays light due to chilled butter. The cheese melts into the pastry and creates a golden finish. The recipe suits quick snacks or party trays. Each bite feels simple and honest.

What Makes This Recipe Straightforward

The method uses basic steps. The dough comes together fast. The cutting and twisting create a neat shape. The bake time stays short, so you get a fast result. The ingredient list stays short as well. You can prepare the dough ahead and bake when needed. The recipe works well for beginners.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Rest Time 20 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Servings: 20
Estimated Cost: 4.50
Calories: 110
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Dietary: Contains dairy and gluten
Description

These spelt cheese straws bake into crisp, flaky twists with a clear cheddar flavour. The dough comes together quickly and gives a light, savoury snack that works well fresh or reheated. The simple method keeps the process easy for any home cook.

Ingredients
    For the dough:
  • 150 g whole spelt flour (sifted)
  • ½ tsp fine sea salt
  • 80 g cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
  • 100 g mature cheddar cheese (grated)
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1 medium egg (lightly beaten)
  • 1-2 tbsp cold water (if needed)
    • For finishing:
  • 1 medium egg (lightly beaten for egg wash)
  • 20 g extra cheddar (grated, for topping)
Instructions
    Combine the dry ingredients.
  1. 1
    Add the spelt flour, salt, and paprika to a bowl and mix.
    2. Rub in the butter.
  2. 2
    Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour until it forms fine crumbs.
    3. Add the cheese.
  3. 3
    Stir in the grated cheddar so it spreads evenly through the mixture.
    4. Form the dough.
  4. 4
    Add the beaten egg and mix. If the dough feels dry, add a small amount of cold water. Stop as soon as the dough comes together.
    5. Chill the dough.
  5. 5
    Wrap the dough and chill for 20 minutes.
  6. 6
    Note: Chilling keeps the straws crisp.
    7. Roll the dough.
  7. 7
    Lightly flour your surface. Roll the dough into a thin rectangle about 3 mm thick.
    8. Cut and twist.
  8. 8
    Slice into long strips (about 1.5 cm wide). Twist each strip gently.
    9. Prepare for baking.
  9. 9
    Place the twists on a lined tray. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with extra cheese.
    10. Bake.
  10. 10
    Bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 12–15 minutes, until golden and crisp.
    11. Cool.
  11. 11
    Cool fully on a rack to keep the texture light.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 20

Amount Per Serving
Calories 110kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7g11%
Saturated Fat 4g20%
Cholesterol 22mg8%
Sodium 140mg6%
Potassium 35mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 9g3%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 0.5g
Protein 4g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes

These cheese straws taste best on the day of baking, but they keep well in an airtight container for 2–3 days.

Substitutions / Variations

  • Swap cheddar for Cheshire, Red Leicester, or a mild blue cheese.
  • Add herbs such as chives or thyme.
  • Add mustard powder for extra depth.
  • Make ahead by freezing twisted raw dough and baking from frozen.
Keywords: spelt, cheese straws, savoury baking, cheddar pastry, snack

Tips & Variations

Make the flavour stronger

Use extra mature cheddar for a sharper taste. A small amount of mustard powder or cayenne lifts the flavour without overpowering the pastry.

Adjust texture

For lighter straws, roll the dough thinner. For a softer bite, reduce baking time by one or two minutes.

Conclusion

Give these spelt cheese straws a try when you want a simple and crisp snack. The steps stay easy and the flavour rewards the short effort. Share them at gatherings or enjoy them warm from the oven. Let these quick savoury bites become a regular bake. If you try them, share how they turned out.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-cheese-straws/
Valentina - Spelt Recipes
Valentina
A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!