Andy Montoya
Cheddar cheese sticks are a delicious snack, perfect for any time of the day. They are easy to make, savoury, and cheesy, with a light, tender, and crisp texture. You can make them at home with a few simple ingredients, such as flour, cornstarch, butter, and of course, cheddar cheese. The key to getting that perfect cheese stick shape and flavour is to use a block of cheese and grate it yourself. You can also add your own twist with dried herbs and spices, such as curry powder or smoked paprika. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a party appetiser, cheddar cheese sticks are a great option to satisfy your cheesy cravings!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Rich, buttery, salty, spicy, tangy, crispy, crunchy |
| Texture | Tender, crisp, crunchy |
| Ease of Making | Easy |
| Ingredients | Cheddar, Parmesan, frozen puff pastry dough, flour, cornstarch, baking powder, butter, salt, cayenne pepper, egg, breadcrumbs, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder |
| Serving Suggestions | Marinara sauce, bolognese sauce, ranch, nachos, chicken wings, potato skins, sausage balls, ham and cheese sliders, tomato soup |
| Calories | 77 per stick |
| Nutrition | Carbohydrates: 5g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 17mg, Sodium: 141mg, Potassium: 13mg, Vitamin A: 15IU, Calcium: 18mg, Iron: 0.3mg |
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What You'll Learn
How to make homemade cheddar cheese sticks
Ingredients
For homemade cheddar cheese sticks, you will need the following ingredients:
- Butter
- Grated cheddar cheese
- Flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Cayenne pepper
- Egg
- Breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (optional)
Method
First, cut the butter into cubes and place them in a mixing bowl. Grate the cheddar cheese and add it to the bowl. Let the butter and cheese stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they have softened. Preheat your oven to 185°C (conventional) or 175°C (convection). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. You can also add other dried herbs and spices, such as smoked paprika, to suit your taste. Once the butter and cheese have softened, add the dry ingredients to the mixing bowl and use an electric mixer to beat on medium speed until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Next, you have the option to either roll out the dough and cut it into sticks, or twist the dough into sticks. For the first option, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about a pencil, then cut the dough into 4- to 5-inch lengths. Arrange the pieces on the prepared baking sheet. If you prefer twist cheese sticks, roll the dough into strips, then twist each strip. The tighter you twist them, the denser and crispier they will be.
Before baking, prepare an egg wash by whisking an egg yolk with a few drops of water. Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash. Bake the cheese sticks at 400°F (200°C or 205°C) for about 10 minutes, then flip or rotate the baking sheet and bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese sticks are golden brown.
Let the cheese sticks cool completely on a wire rack, then store them in an airtight container. These cheese sticks can be served as an appetizer with dips such as marinara or bolognese sauce, or as a side dish with soup.
For an even quicker and easier option, you can also make fried cheese sticks by dipping the cheese in egg, flour, and breadcrumbs, then frying in hot oil until browned.
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Dips and sauces to serve with cheddar cheese sticks
Cheddar cheese sticks are a delicious snack, and there are a variety of dips and sauces that can be served with them. Here are some ideas to elevate your cheese sticks:
Marinara Sauce
A classic choice, marinara sauce, is a perfect pairing with cheddar cheese sticks. This sauce is usually made with sautéed diced onions and garlic, diced tomatoes, and fresh herbs, creating a smooth texture and bold flavour. It can also be made with garlic-infused olive oil for a smoother sauce.
Bolognese Sauce
For a heartier option, bolognese sauce is a meatier alternative to marinara. It provides a rich, savoury flavour that pairs well with the cheddar.
Alfredo Sauce
If you're looking for something creamy and cheesy, Alfredo sauce is a great choice. While it may be more commonly paired with chicken or pasta, it can add a delicious, indulgent twist to your cheddar cheese sticks.
Honey Mustard
For those who enjoy a tangy, spicy kick, honey mustard can be an excellent choice. It offers a unique flavour profile that complements the cheese without overwhelming it.
BBQ Sauce
A sweet and smoky BBQ sauce is another tasty option for your cheddar cheese sticks. The rich flavour of BBQ sauce goes surprisingly well with the cheese, and a touch of hot sauce adds an extra kick.
Spicy Ketchup
A simple yet effective combination is spicy ketchup, made with just three ingredients: ketchup, chili powder, and hot sauce. It's perfect for those who like their snacks on the spicier side.
Ranch Dressing
Ranch dressing is a versatile dip that can be paired with almost anything, including cheddar cheese sticks. It adds a creamy, tangy element to the crispy, savoury cheese sticks.
Garlic Aioli
Garlic aioli is a less traditional choice but can be a pleasant surprise. It adds a strong garlicky flavour and a hint of tanginess, making it a tasty option for those who enjoy bold flavours.
Pesto Sauce
Pesto sauce is another Italian classic that can elevate your cheddar cheese sticks. The herby, fresh flavour of pesto dials up the flavour and provides a unique, delicious experience.
The options for dips and sauces are endless, and you can always experiment with different combinations to find your favourite. These suggestions are a great starting point for taking your cheddar cheese sticks to the next level!
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Baked vs. fried cheese sticks
Cheese sticks are a delicious snack, side dish, or appetizer. They are easy to make and can be prepared in a variety of ways, including baking and frying. In this article, we will explore the differences between baked and fried cheese sticks, providing detailed instructions on how to make them, and offering suggestions for serving and enjoying these tasty treats.
Baked Cheese Sticks
Baked cheese sticks are a great option if you want to avoid the mess and hassle of frying. They are relatively quick and easy to prepare, and the baking method gives them a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and gooey interior. Here is a step-by-step guide to making baked cheese sticks:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Prepare the cheese mixture by grating cheddar cheese and mixing it with softened butter, salt, and cayenne pepper (if desired). You can also add dried herbs and spices like smoked paprika for extra flavour.
- Whisk an egg yolk with a few drops of water to create an egg wash.
- Form the cheese mixture into sticks or twist shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the top of the cheese sticks with the egg wash.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese sticks are golden brown.
- Allow the cheese sticks to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing.
Fried Cheese Sticks
Fried cheese sticks are a classic preparation method that results in a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a melted, gooey interior. Frying gives the cheese sticks a slightly different texture and flavour compared to baking. Here is how to make fried cheese sticks:
- Prepare the cheese sticks by coating them with a flour mixture, then dipping them in an egg mixture, and finally coating them with breadcrumbs. Be sure to press the breadcrumbs into the cheese sticks to ensure an even coating.
- Freeze the coated cheese sticks for at least 2 hours or until completely frozen. This helps prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying.
- Heat oil in a heavy saucepan to 350-365°F. The oil should be hot enough that a few crumbs dropped into it will bubble.
- Carefully place the frozen breaded cheese sticks into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for about 2 minutes or until they are golden brown. Do not overcook, as the cheese may leak out.
- Remove the fried cheese sticks from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with dipping sauces such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Both baked and fried cheese sticks can be served as appetizers, snacks, or side dishes. They go well with various dips and sauces, such as marinara sauce, bolognese sauce, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce. Cheese sticks also pair well with "pub grub" foods like loaded nachos, chicken wings, potato skins, sausage balls, or ham and cheese sliders. For a fun lunch or dinner option, serve them alongside a bowl of tomato soup.
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Best brands of cheddar cheese sticks
If you're looking for the best brands of cheddar cheese sticks, there are several options available. Sargento, for instance, offers a range of cheese sticks, including Sharp Cheddar, Colby Jack, and Pepper Jack varieties. Sargento cheese sticks are known for their convenience, great taste, and quality. They come in the "long dice" shape, providing a satisfying eating experience.
Another highly recommended brand is Kerrygold, known for producing some of the best butter. Their aged cheddar cheese sticks are described as having a nuanced, rich, and layered flavor comparable to the cheddar you'd find on a cheese board. These cheese sticks are definitely worth seeking out and can often be found in large quantities at stores like Costco.
Tillamook is also praised for its grocery store cheese, and its medium cheddar cheese sticks are a great choice. While some may argue that they taste more like mild cheddar, they offer a gentle tanginess with just a hint of pungency. This option is perfect if you prefer a milder flavor.
Other brands worth considering include Cracker Barrel, Good & Gather, Great Value, Simple Truth Organic, Kroger, and Jarlsberg. These brands offer a variety of cheddar, Colby Jack, and Monterey Jack cheese sticks that may suit your taste preferences.
When choosing cheddar cheese sticks, it's important to prioritize brands that use real, natural cheese with delicious flavors. Some brands may use additives or starch to prevent sticking, so opting for a block of cheese that you grate yourself can ensure a more authentic flavor.
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Creative ways to serve cheddar cheese sticks
Cheddar cheese sticks are a versatile snack that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some creative ways to serve them:
As an Appetizer
Cheddar cheese sticks can make a great appetizer, especially when served with a dip. A classic marinara sauce is a popular choice, but you could also try a bolognese sauce for a heartier option. Other dip options include ranch, curry powders, smoked paprika, or a combination of spices.
As a Side Dish
These cheese sticks can also be served as a side dish. For example, they can pair well with a bowl of tomato soup or a quesadilla for a fun lunch or dinner.
As a Party Snack
Cheddar cheese sticks are a great option for parties, as they can be whipped up in minutes and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Spicy, crispy cheese sticks are always a hit, and you can add some red pepper flakes or fresh rosemary to give them an extra kick.
As a Twist
You can also get creative by making twisted cheese sticks. This can be done by using frozen puff pastry dough and adding cheddar and parmesan cheese. This method creates a rich, buttery, and crunchy snack that's perfect for entertaining.
Battered and Fried
For an indulgent treat, you can batter and fry cheddar cheese sticks. To do this, coat the sticks in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then freeze before frying. This method creates a crispy and gooey texture that's sure to be a favorite. Serve these hot with a warm pasta sauce or a dip of your choice.
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Frequently asked questions
To make homemade cheddar cheese sticks, you will need butter, flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and good-quality cheddar cheese. Cut the butter into cubes and grate the cheese. Let them stand at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften. Preheat the oven to 185°C (conventional) / 175°C (convection). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder in a small bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and cheese on medium speed until blended. Sift in the flour mixture and mix until incorporated. Roll out the dough, cut it into strips, and transfer them to the baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
It is recommended to use cheese strings instead of regular cheese, as they will not melt as quickly. Additionally, take care to fully coat each cheese stick with the breading to prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying.
Preheat oil to 350°F. Dip frozen cheese sticks in egg and then coat with flour and breadcrumbs. Place in the hot oil for about 2 minutes or until browned. Do not overcook, as the cheese will leak out.
Some popular brands of cheddar cheese sticks include Kerrygold, Sargento, and Tillamook.
Cheddar cheese sticks can be served as a snack or appetizer. They can be paired with sauces such as marinara, bolognese, or ranch. They also go well with other "pub grub" foods like loaded nachos, chicken wings, or potato skins.
