Andy Montoya
Cheese straws are a tasty snack that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are easy to make and can be adapted with different flavours and ingredients. While they are a delicious treat, one may wonder if they are healthy. In terms of nutrition, cheese straws are high in calories, fat, and protein, and they may offer some health benefits such as improved sight and muscle support. However, they also contain significant amounts of cholesterol and sodium. So, are cheese straws healthy? The answer may depend on an individual's dietary needs and restrictions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 per serving |
| Macronutrient breakdown | 25% carbs, 62% fat, and 13% protein |
| Health benefits | Good for sight and muscles |
| Ingredients | Cheese, flour, butter, cream cheese, egg, milk, seeds, nuts |
| Preparation time | 20 minutes |
| Oven temperature | 375°F / 190°C / Gas Mark 5 |
| --- | 200°C/180°C(fan)/400°F/Gas 6 |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Calories and macronutrients
Cheese straws are a tasty snack, often enjoyed as a party food or kid's snack, and they are easy to make. They are made with puff pastry, cheese, and egg, and sometimes other ingredients like butter, cream cheese, seeds, or nuts. While they are a delicious treat, they are not particularly healthy due to their high-calorie content and high fat and carbohydrate composition.
A serving of cheese straws typically contains around 150-170 calories. The macronutrient breakdown varies depending on the recipe and ingredients used, but on average, it consists of a high proportion of fat (around 60-62%), moderate amounts of carbohydrates (about 25%), and a smaller percentage of protein (approximately 13%).
The fat content in cheese straws is predominantly from the cheese, butter, and egg used in the recipe. For example, a serving of Geraldine's traditional cheddar cheese straws provides 100 calories from fat, contributing to the high-fat composition.
The carbohydrate content in cheese straws comes mainly from the flour and pastry used as a base. While the specific type of flour can vary, with options like oat flour, plain flour, or gluten-free flour, it still contributes to the overall carbohydrate content.
Protein in cheese straws comes primarily from the cheese and egg. The protein percentage in the total macronutrient composition is relatively lower compared to the fat and carbohydrate content.
It is worth noting that the nutritional profile of cheese straws can be slightly improved by making some ingredient substitutions. For instance, using dairy-free alternatives like dairy-free butter and cream cheese, or adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour without the need for actual cheese, can make the snack more nutritious.
Cheese Curls: Healthy or Unhealthy?
You may want to see also
Health benefits
Cheese straws are a tasty snack that can provide some health benefits. Firstly, they can be a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The protein content in cheese straws can vary depending on the recipe, but on average, they contain a decent amount of protein.
Secondly, cheese straws can provide a boost of calcium, which is important for bone health and maintaining healthy teeth. Calcium is abundant in dairy products, so cheese straws made with dairy cheese will contribute to your daily calcium intake.
In addition, cheese straws can offer some benefits for eye health. The vitamin A and riboflavin content in cheese straws can promote healthy vision and reduce the risk of eye-related issues. Vitamin A, in particular, is essential for maintaining the health of the retina and preventing night blindness.
Furthermore, cheese straws can be a good source of energy. With a combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, they can provide a steady release of energy. This makes them a suitable snack for active individuals or children who need a boost throughout the day.
Lastly, cheese straws can be made healthier by using certain ingredients. For example, using whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour instead of refined flour can increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients. Additionally, adding seeds like sesame or nigella seeds, or nuts like walnuts or pistachios, can boost the nutritional profile by providing healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Are Austin Cheese Crackers Healthy?
You may want to see also
Non-dairy alternatives
Cheese straws are typically made with cheese and butter, but non-dairy alternatives can be used to make this snack more inclusive.
One option is to use a vegan cheese alternative. There are many varieties of vegan cheese available, including shredded cheese, liquid cheddar or mozzarella-style sauce, sliced Swiss cheese, and even vegan parmesan. Some popular brands of vegan cheese include Violife, Follow Your Heart, Kite Hill Foods, and Tofutti. These cheeses are made with plant-based ingredients such as nuts, seeds, tofu, oats, or beans, and thickened with starch or flour.
Another option is to use a dairy-free butter alternative, such as a vegan spread or margarine. For extra flavour, nutritional yeast can be added, which has a cheesy taste.
A recipe for dairy-free cheese straws suggests using oat flour (or plain/gluten-free flour), dairy-free butter, and dairy-free cream cheese. This recipe also includes nutritional yeast and suggests toppings such as sesame seeds, nigella seeds, or nuts.
Vegan cheese alternatives can be a great option for those who are lactose intolerant, have a dairy allergy, or simply want to reduce their dairy intake or carbon footprint. While the taste and texture may differ from dairy-based cheese, there are many options available that can provide a similar cheesy experience.
Bacon, Egg, and Cheese: Healthy or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$4.28 $4.57
Toppings and flavour variations
Cheese straws are a versatile snack that can be adapted with different flavours and toppings. While the traditional recipe calls for puff pastry, cheese, and egg, there are several variations you can explore to add a unique twist.
- Sesame and Nigella Seeds: Sprinkle sesame and nigella seeds on top of the cheese straws before baking. This variation adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavour to the straws.
- Nuts: Experiment with crushed or whole nuts, such as pistachios or walnuts, to add a crunchy and nutty dimension to the cheese straws.
- Spices: Cayenne pepper can be added to the dough to give the cheese straws a spicy kick. You can also explore other spices like paprika or black pepper to create unique flavour profiles.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be mixed into the dough or sprinkled on top. This variation adds a fragrant and savoury touch to the cheese straws.
- Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese, such as Parmesan, Gruyère, or a mix of multiple cheeses, to create distinct flavour profiles.
- Gluten-Free Options: For those with gluten intolerance, use gluten-free flour or oat flour instead of plain flour. This variation ensures that everyone can enjoy the cheese straws.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations of toppings and flavours to create your signature cheese straws that suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Cheese Sticks: Bodybuilding Superfood or Diet Disaster?
You may want to see also
How to make cheese straws
Cheese straws are a popular snack in Guyana but originated in England. They are a mixture of cheese and flour, combined into a dough and divided into thin strips before baking.
Ingredients
- Cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or cream cheese)
- Flour (oat, plain, gluten-free, or all-purpose)
- Butter (softened, room temperature, or dairy-free)
- Milk
- Eggs
- Cayenne, wiri wiri, scotch bonnet, or habanero pepper
- Spicy brown mustard or mustard powder
Method
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, gently mix the cheese, flour, butter, and pepper. You can use a food processor or fold in the flour gradually until you have a smooth dough.
- If you want to add extra flavour, you can mix in mustard, sesame seeds, nigella seeds, or nuts.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough until it is about 0.5-1cm thick.
- Cut the dough into strips, or use a cookie cutter to create different shapes like stars or circles. You can also pipe the dough into straws or shapes using a pastry bag with a star tip.
- Brush the tops of the dough shapes with milk.
- Place the shapes on a non-stick or greased baking tray, leaving about 1 inch of space between them.
- Chill the cheese straws in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Bake the cheese straws for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are puffed, lightly golden, and lacy at the edges.
- Allow the cheese straws to cool completely on the baking sheets before serving.
You can make these cheese straws ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the freezer for up to a month.
Cheese Fat: Healthy or Unhealthy?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Cheese straws are not the healthiest snack option. They are high in fat and carbohydrates, with one serving of Geraldine's traditional cheddar cheese straws containing 150 calories, 25% carbs, 62% fat, and 13% protein. However, they do provide some health benefits, such as improving your sight and muscle health.
Cheese straws are typically made with a combination of puff pastry, cheese, and egg. Some recipes also include additional ingredients such as butter, flour, and seeds or nuts.
To make cheese straws healthier, you can substitute some of the ingredients with healthier alternatives. For example, you can use oat flour or gluten-free flour instead of plain flour, and dairy-free butter or cream cheese instead of regular butter. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour without the dairy.
Traditional cheese straws are not suitable for dairy-free diets as they contain cheese and butter, which are dairy products. However, it is possible to make dairy-free cheese straws by using dairy-free alternatives, such as dairy-free butter and cream cheese, and adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour.
Yes, cheese straws are very easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients. They can be made with store-bought puff pastry, and you can get creative with different flavours and toppings. They are a great option for party food or kids' snacks and can be ready in as little as 20 minutes.
