How to Bake Mary Berry’s Famous Cheese Straws

Looking for a tasty snack that wows everyone? You can’t go wrong with Mary Berry’s cheese straws. These cheese straws blend easy steps with delicious results. They’re perfect for any event or as a treat in kids’ lunchboxes. Making them only takes a few minutes, plus baking time. So, they’re as simple to create as they are delightful to eat.

Mary Berry’s baking style has won hearts all over the UK. It encourages both new and experienced bakers to try making something special. This guide shows you how to make cheese straws that are crunchy outside and full of cheese inside. They are great for any celebration or just as a tasty snack to share.

Prepare to make Mary Berry’s cheese straws your new go-to snack. With this recipe, you’ll bake about 50 pieces of cheesy bliss. They come out golden and perfect every time!

The Allure of Mary Berry’s Cheese Straws

Cheese straws are a fabulous snack option loved by many. They combine irresistible flavour with a satisfying crunch. They’re easy to make, perfect for parties or just a nibble at home. Their cheese straws appeal isn’t just about taste. They also add fun to any event.

Why Cheese Straws are a Perfect Snack

Cheese straws are incredibly versatile, making them an ideal snack. They fit well at fancy parties or relaxed movie nights. With a few ingredients, you can create many tasty versions. They’re crunchy, cheesy, and get eaten quickly at any gathering.

Mary Berry’s Influence in Baking

Mary Berry has become a staple in British baking culture. Her *baking books* fill kitchens, loved by many home bakers. Berry’s recipes are simple yet joyful, appealing to all levels of bakers. She keeps classic recipes, like cheese straws, popular and cherished. To learn more about classic snacks, you can visit historical recipe collections.

Ingredients for Mary Berry’s Cheese Straws

Creating delicious cheese straws starts with the right ingredients. This recipe uses key items for great taste and texture. The cheese you pick is crucial for quality straws. Somerset Cheddar is top choice for its deep, rich taste.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1¼ cups (200g) self-rising flour
• 1 level tsp dry mustard powder
• ¼ level tsp salt
• ½ cup (114g) butter, softened
• 4½ oz (125g) mature Somerset Cheddar cheese, grated

These ingredients make the perfect blend of flavour and texture. Rolling dough into sticks and adding cheese on top makes them better. Add dried herbs like chives or oregano for more taste.

Choosing the Right Cheese

Choosing good cheese is key for tasty cheese straws. Somerset Cheddar gives a rich and robust flavour. If it’s not available, try Gruyère or sharp Cheddar instead. Trying different cheeses can create unique and delicious straws.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mary Berry Cheese Straws

Making Mary Berry’s cheese straws is fun and simple. Start with the best ingredients and follow proven techniques for perfect straws every time. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from prep to baking.

Preparation Techniques

Here are easy steps to get your cheese straws ready:

1. Measure Ingredients: Get 100g self-raising flour, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp mustard powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 50g margarine, 70g grated cheese, 1 egg, and 1 tbsp semi-skimmed milk ready.
2. Mixing: Sift the flour, salt, and mustard powder. Then, blend in the margarine to look like breadcrumbs.
3. Add Cheese and Thyme: Now, mix in the cheese and thyme.
4. Form Dough: Create a well in the middle, mix in the egg and milk, and form a dough. You can shape it into straws as you like.
5. Cutting: Gently roll the dough and slice into strips. Choose the width based on what you prefer.

Baking Tips for Perfect Straws

Now, let’s talk about baking. Follow these tips for the best cheese straws:

• Oven Temperature: Heat your oven to 180ºC if it’s fan-assisted or 200ºC otherwise.
• Baking Time: Place the straws on a tray and bake for 10-12 minutes. Watch for a golden colour.
• Cooling: Let the straws cool on a wire rack to ensure they’re crispy.
• Serving Fresh: Enjoy the straws the same day, or the next. You can freeze unbaked straws for 3 months.

To make perfect cheese straws, just follow these steps. Keep trying new things with each batch to improve. Happy baking!

Serving and Enjoying Cheese Straws

Once baked and cooled, cheese straws are a treat. Their savoury taste and flaky texture offer many serving ideas. Pair with warm soup or a crisp salad to uplift your meal.

Their cheesy flavour matches many dishes. This makes them perfect for parties or casual dinners with family.

Best Pairings with Cheese Straws

Pairing cheese straws can be quite fun and tasty. Try them with classic tomato soup for a great mix. Or, pair with a green salad and tangy dressing to enhance their taste.

They’re also great on their own, perhaps with dips like hummus or zesty salsa. This is ideal for hosting guests.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have leftover cheese straws, it’s crucial to store them right to keep their taste and texture. They last in the fridge for three days or can be frozen for up to a month. For the crispiest texture, use an airtight container.

Warm them in the oven for a few minutes before eating to bring back the crunch. This makes them as delicious as they were when first baked.

For more tasty recipe ideas perfect for entertaining, see this Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle recipe.

FAQ

What makes Mary Berry’s cheese straws special?

Mary Berry’s cheese straws are amazing because they’re simple to make. They have high-quality ingredients and a unique flavour mix. This makes them an irresistible snack for any event, loved by people of all ages.

How long does it take to make cheese straws?

It takes about 30 minutes to prepare Mary Berry’s cheese straws. Then, they need 15 minutes to bake. So, you can have tasty cheese straws ready in less than an hour.

Can I use different types of cheese for the cheese straws?

Yes, you can try various cheese types! Somerset Cheddar is preferred for its unique taste. But you can also use Gruyère, Parmesan, or vegan cheese for equally tasty results.

What are the best ways to serve cheese straws?

Cheese straws are great with soups, salads, or by themselves. You can dip them in hummus or salsa too. They’re a hit at parties and gatherings.

How should I store leftover cheese straws?

Keep your cheese straws in an airtight container to stay fresh. You can store them at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, freeze them to enjoy anytime.

Are Mary Berry’s cheese straws suitable for children’s lunchboxes?

Definitely! They’re a nutritious and convenient choice for kids’ lunchboxes. Mary Berry’s cheese straws are tasty and fun. They’ll make lunchtime exciting for your children.

What tools do I need to make cheese straws?

You need some simple kitchen tools to make them. This includes mixing bowls, a rolling pin, a baking tray, and a knife or pizza cutter. These help make the process easy and enjoyable!