Cheese Stick Cookies Recipe

If you love savory, crunchy snacks with a bakery-style flair, Cheese Stick Cookies are about to become your new obsession. These buttery batons are crisp on the outside, tender within, and bursting with real cheddar in every bite. They’re the life of any party snack platter and make addictive nibbles straight from the jar. Even if you’ve never made a savory cookie before, this recipe is a breeze to pull off and delivers that irresistible cheese-and-butter aroma we all crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity here—each ingredient has a distinct role in making your Cheese Stick Cookies delightfully crumbly and cheesy. Quality basics blend together for a snack that’s rich in flavor and perfect in texture.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that binds everything together while keeping the cookies tender, not tough.
• Cornstarch: Helps create that signature melt-in-your-mouth, crisp texture you’ll love in every bite.
• Unsalted butter: Use it softened for easy mixing—this is key to that rich flavor and delicate crumb.
• Egg yolks: They add richness and golden color; plus that extra yolk makes a glossy, beautiful finish on top.
• Grated cheddar cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for a bold, cheesy punch—reserve a little for sprinkling over the cookies, too.
• Salt: Enhances every other flavor and balances the buttery and cheesy notes.
• Baking powder: Just a touch for a lift that keeps the cookies light and slightly puffy.

How to Make Cheese Stick Cookies

Step 1: Make the Butter Mixture

Start by creaming together the softened butter and egg yolks in a large bowl. Use a hand mixer or sturdy wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Then add in the grated cheddar cheese and gently stir it through, making sure it’s evenly distributed and the aroma starts to hit you.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, blend the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk for this step—it aerates the mixture and ensures the baking powder and salt are evenly scattered, which means perfectly even Cheese Stick Cookies later.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and cheese mixture, working in a few spoons at a time. Mix until everything comes together in a soft but manageable dough. If it feels a little sticky, pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes—it’ll be easier to roll out after a quick chill.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Lightly flour your work surface, then roll the dough out to about 1 centimeter thick. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the dough into small rectangular sticks—this is where they get their signature look. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they bake evenly and look beautiful lined up on your tray.

Step 5: Add Egg Wash and Cheese

Whisk your extra egg yolk until smooth, then gently brush it over the tops of each stick. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese across every cookie—don’t be shy! This little step gives each bite a golden, savory crown that ups the wow factor when you take them out of the oven.

Step 6: Bake

Arrange your Cheese Stick Cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving just a bit of space between each. Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and your kitchen smells downright irresistible. Keep an eye on them towards the end—you want them crisp, not too dark!

Step 7: Cool and Store

Let the cookies cool completely on the tray—this is crucial for getting that perfect, crumbly snap. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight jar or cookie tin. They’ll keep their flavor and crunch until you’re ready to share (or secretly snack).

How to Serve Cheese Stick Cookies

Garnishes

Sometimes the best part of serving Cheese Stick Cookies is those final little touches. Try a light dusting of paprika or extra-fine grated parmesan just as they come out of the oven for a pop of color and flavor. A scattering of chopped chives or parsley adds a fresh, lovely contrast, making the cookies look as scrumptious as they taste.

Side Dishes

Serve your Cheese Stick Cookies alongside tangy dips like marinara, sour cream, or an herbed yogurt for a snacking experience that’s hard to beat. They also partner beautifully with charcuterie boards, soups, or even as a crunchy crouton-style topper for salads. The savory richness is a match made in heaven with crisp veggies or a bowl of olives.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative with your presentation and let your Cheese Stick Cookies shine! Bundle a handful in parchment and tie with twine for adorable hostess gifts, or stack them in tall glasses for a playful appetizers display. If you’re having guests, stand them upright in a jar or cup for an easy, grab-and-go snack everyone will talk about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cheese Stick Cookies in peak condition, let them cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight jar, tin, or plastic container and stash in a cool, dry spot. They’ll stay fresh and crunchy for up to a week—great for make-ahead snacking or prepping party trays in advance.

Freezing

These cookies freeze exceptionally well! Layer cooled Cheese Stick Cookies between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to two months. To serve, just let them warm back to room temperature—they’ll taste like you baked them that morning.

Reheating

If your Cheese Stick Cookies have lost a little of their initial crispness, just pop them onto a baking sheet and reheat in a 160°C (320°F) oven for about 5 minutes. This refreshes their texture and makes them as appetizing as the day they were first baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar gives Cheese Stick Cookies their classic bold flavor, you can experiment with gouda, edam, parmesan, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra twist. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well and has a robust taste.

Why do I need to use cornstarch in these cookies?

Cornstarch is the secret ingredient that lends Cheese Stick Cookies their dreamy, tender crunch. It softens the dough, prevents toughness, and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture that sets these savory cookies apart.

Can I make Cheese Stick Cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a binder, so the cookies hold together nicely. You may need to adjust the texture slightly with extra cornstarch or a tablespoon of milk if the dough feels dry.

How do I keep the Cheese Stick Cookies from getting soggy?

Cooling the cookies completely before storing is crucial. Always use airtight containers to keep out moisture, and avoid putting them away while they’re even slightly warm, as steam can make them lose their crunch fast.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! This recipe doubles (or even triples) beautifully with no special changes. Just work in batches if you’re mixing by hand so you don’t overwork the dough, and rotate your baking trays for even coloring.

Final Thoughts

Give these Cheese Stick Cookies a try and watch them become a staple in your snack rotation! They’re the kind of treat that makes every occasion feel special, and you’ll love seeing smiles when you share them with friends and family. Happy baking!

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