Ultimate 12 Bacon Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Straws Recipe

 

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of bacon sizzling in the kitchen. It wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace that instantly brightens your mood. I still remember the first time I discovered the mouthwatering combination of bacon, jalapeños, and cheddar cheese. It was during a football game with friends, and the moment I took a bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. These Amazing 12 Bacon Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Straws quickly became a staple at all my gatherings, not just because they’re delicious, but because they evoke so many warm memories of laughter and good company.

Whether it’s for a cozy weekend snack, a last-minute appetizer for guests, or even a delightful treat during movie night, these cheese straws are guaranteed to be a hit. Let me guide you through this easy, comforting recipe that you can whip up in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Decadently delicious with the flavors of bacon, cheese, and a spicy kick.
• Can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile.
• Great for sharing, but you might want to keep them all to yourself!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful straws:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated (freshly grated adds a lovely richness)
• 4 slices of cooked bacon, finely chopped (the more crispy, the better!)
• 1 jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat, if preferred)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra kick)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika gives a great flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed (cold butter creates flakiness)
• 1/4 cup cold water (add a bit more if needed, depending on the dough consistency)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to dive into this flavorful adventure? Let’s get started!

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your straws are ready to go in.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika until well combined. This helps to evenly distribute the spices through the flour.
3. Incorporate the butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend it in until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This is key to making the straws flaky!
4. Add cheese and bacon: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped bacon until fully combined. The scent of bacon will make your kitchen smell divine!
5. Mix in jalapeños: Fold in the finely diced jalapeño. If you love a bit of heat, this is your moment!
6. Add the cold water: Gradually add in the cold water a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. Don’t overmix! This keeps the straws light and flaky.
7. Roll the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a rolling pin to get an even thickness.
8. Cut into straws: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into long strips (about 1-inch wide). Feel free to get creative with the shapes!
9. Prepare for baking: Place the strips onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving a bit of space between each one. Brush them with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
10. Bake: Bake the straws in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
11. Cool and serve: Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack.

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s sprinkle in some fun twists:

• Herb infusion: Add some fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheese variations: Try substituting the cheddar with pepper jack for a spicier kick!
• Make it smoky: Incorporate smoked gouda, which pairs perfectly with the bacon.
• Vegan option: Swap the butter for vegan butter, use nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and replace the egg with almond milk for an egg wash. The results can still be tasty!

Serving Suggestions

These bacon jalapeno cheddar cheese straws are perfect as a standalone snack, but why not elevate your serving game? Here are a few ideas:

• Serve them warm along with a zesty salsa or guacamole for dipping—think of a little fiesta right in your living room!
• Pair them with a hearty tomato soup for a cozy lunch.
• Enjoy them alongside a crisp salad as a fun texture contrast.
• For a sweet touch, serve with a side of honey or honey mustard dip.

And don’t forget—you can enjoy them with your favorite drink, whether it’s a chilled beer, a spicy margarita, or a steaming cup of coffee.

Storage Tips

Now, here’s where it gets good! If by some miracle you have leftovers (which I doubt will happen), here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled cheese straws in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the straws in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 2 months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking!
• Reheating: To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Microwave if you’re in a pinch, but they might lose a bit of crunch.

FAQs

Can I make these cheese straws ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, shape the straws, and freeze them. Just bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!

What can I substitute for jalapeños?

If you’re not a fan of spice, you can leave them out entirely or swap them for sweet bell peppers or even sun-dried tomatoes for a completely different flavor profile.

How do I know when the cheese straws are done baking?

Keep an eye on them! They should be golden brown and crispy. The aroma will also fill your kitchen, making it hard not to sneak a taste early.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

For sure! Go wild with your cheese choice—pepper jack, gouda, or even a mild mozzarella can work wonders. Just remember that the flavor may change based on your selection!

Conclusion

There you have it—your very own Amazing 12 Bacon Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Straws, bursting with flavor and memories waiting to happen! I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do, and that they bring you joy and deliciousness. I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you, so don’t forget to drop a comment or share your creative twists! Happy snacking!