Cheese Straw, stars and snowflakes.

At this time of year there is always a holiday party, cookie exchange or some sort of gathering that you may have to host or attend.  This is a great appetizer that is the first to go and is very easy to make.  You can make this ahead of time and store it in an air tight container until you are ready to serve.  I grew up eating this but it was always done in long strips, hence the name cheese straw.  My mom makes the best cheese straws, so it was only natural for me to use her recipe.   A few years ago she started experimenting with different shapes and I absolutely love it!  At valentine’s this can be cheesy hearts, or cheesy turkey and maple leaves at thanksgiving.  Since christmas is fastly approaching I decided to make these in the shape of stars and snowflakes.  This would be a wonderful and festive addiction to any holiday table.

Cheese straws, stars and snowflakes

1 1/2 cup all purpose flour

1 1/2 stick butter

8 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated finely

1/3 tsp chili powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp yellow mustard

1 egg yolk

Preheat oven to 350 degree.  Place all ingredients  in food processor and pulse until combined.  Divide dough in half and place one half in the refriderator to chill while you work with the other half.  On a will floured surface, roll dough to 1/4 inch in thickness.  You can either use fun cookie cutters or you can roll the dough into a rectangle and cut using a pastry wheel to make straws.  Bake for 15 mins.  Allow to cool before serving.