At its core, Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws are a celebration of British culinary heritage wrapped up in buttery pastry and aged cheddar. Picture crisp, flaky fingers of golden pastry infused with the nutty tang of mature Somerset Cheddar, delicately seasoned and often brushed with a shiny egg wash for that signature sheen. These cheese straws aren’t just any snack-they’re a sophisticated nibble with pedigree, brought to life by the queen of British baking herself.
Mary Berry, known for her elegant and practical approach to classic British dishes, elevates this humble snack by focusing on quality ingredients and precise technique. Her version showcases the deep, sharp flavor of Somerset Cheddar, a cheese that hails from the lush, green pastures of the West Country. It brings the richness, while the puff pastry provides the light, airy crunch that makes these straws almost too easy to devour.
Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To get the authentic Mary Berry flavor and texture, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients. Keep in mind, quality makes a noticeable difference here-especially when it comes to the cheese and butter.
Main Ingredients
- 225g (8 oz) ready-rolled puff pastry – You can make your own if you’re ambitious, but good-quality store-bought will do nicely.
- 75g (2.5 oz) mature Somerset Cheddar, finely grated – This cheese brings that essential depth and tang.
- 1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tbsp milk – This is your golden ticket to a shiny, crisp finish.
- A pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard powder (optional) – For a gentle kick of heat or tangy warmth.
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds – These add extra crunch and a visual pop.
- A twist of black pepper or a light dusting of paprika – For flavor and flair.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a professional kitchen to pull off these cheese straws, but a few essentials will help you get that Mary Berry level of polish.
Kitchen Tools
- Baking sheet – Preferably lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Pastry brush – For applying the egg wash evenly.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – To slice the pastry into neat, uniform straws.
- Grater – A fine grater helps the cheese melt more evenly into the pastry.
- Rolling pin (optional) – If your puff pastry needs a little flattening.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws
Let’s walk through the method with all the love and detail these golden beauties deserve.
Step 1: Preheat And Prepare
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Step 2: Roll And Shape The Pastry
Unroll your ready-rolled puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If it’s too thick, roll it out gently to about 3mm thickness. You’re aiming for a nice even rectangle.
Step 3: Add The Cheese And Seasoning
Sprinkle the finely grated Somerset Cheddar evenly over half of the pastry. If you’re feeling bold, add a whisper of cayenne or mustard powder here too.
Now fold the pastry over itself like a book, pressing down gently to seal the cheese inside.
Step 4: Roll And Cut
Roll the folded pastry lightly with the rolling pin to flatten it slightly and help the cheese adhere. Then, using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice into strips about 1cm wide and 10-12cm long.
For that classic twist, grab each end of a strip and gently twist it several times before laying it on the prepared baking tray.
Step 5: Egg Wash And Garnish
Brush each cheese straw with the beaten egg yolk and milk mixture. This is where that gorgeous golden color comes from.
If you like, sprinkle over a few sesame or poppy seeds, or a pinch of cracked pepper or paprika for added texture and taste.
Step 6: Bake To Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until puffed, crisp, and deeply golden brown.
Let them cool for a couple of minutes on the tray before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips And Tricks
To really nail Mary Berry’s cheese straws and make them stand out, consider these helpful pointers:
1. Use Cold Pastry
Keep your puff pastry cold until you’re ready to use it. Warm pastry can become too soft and lose its flakiness.
2. Grate Cheese Finely
Finely grated cheese melts more evenly and blends better into the pastry. It also helps the straws twist and bake more cleanly.
3. Add Herbs Or Spices
A sprinkle of dried thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika can lend an aromatic twist without overpowering the cheese.
4. Make Ahead & Freeze
These straws freeze beautifully! Freeze before baking, then cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
5. Even Twisting
Twisting each straw evenly ensures they puff up nicely and cook uniformly. Uneven twisting might cause some parts to brown faster than others.
Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws are more than just a savory snack-they’re a timeless classic that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients, done well. With their golden, flaky pastry, sharp cheddar tang, and just the right amount of crunch, they strike the perfect balance between rustic comfort and refined sophistication.
Whether you’re hosting a garden party, curating a luxurious cheese board, or just want something delicious with a glass of wine or a hot cup of tea, these cheese straws are your answer. They’re comforting, classy, and incredibly satisfying-just as Mary intended.
So, roll up those sleeves, crank up the oven, and let that gorgeous cheesy aroma fill your kitchen. You’ll thank yourself later.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws
Mary Berry’s original recipe for Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws is delightfully straightforward-crispy, buttery pastry layered with rich, mature cheddar. But the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can riff on her base to create a range of variations that cater to different tastes, textures, and occasions.
1. Herb-Infused Cheese Straws
Introduce a touch of garden-fresh aroma with finely chopped herbs. Thyme, rosemary, chives, or parsley mix beautifully with the cheddar, offering not only color but also a fragrant depth. Simply add a teaspoon or two to the dough or sprinkle on top before baking.
2. Spicy Kick
Add some heat to your straws by mixing a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or chili flakes into the dough. For a more dramatic bite, add a little English mustard powder or a swirl of sriracha into the cheese mixture. This twist pairs wonderfully with beer or a bold red wine.
3. Parmesan & Black Pepper Twist
A sophisticated spin: substitute a third of the Somerset Cheddar with Parmesan and mix in a generous grind of black pepper. The Parmesan adds a nutty sharpness, while the pepper gives it a warm depth that lingers.
4. Sesame & Poppy Seed Crust
For a lovely crunch and visual appeal, brush the tops with a bit of beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even nigella seeds before baking. These add texture and a slightly nutty flavor that complements the cheddar brilliantly.
5. Cheddar And Caramelised Onion
Incorporate a thin layer of caramelised onion chutney between two layers of dough before cutting into straws. The sweet-savory contrast is divine-perfect for an upscale appetizer platter.
6. Blue Cheese Blend
For a richer, tangier profile, mix half cheddar with a creamy blue cheese like Stilton. This works best for those who love bold flavors. Just be sure to balance the moisture content, as blue cheese can be softer.
Storing Leftovers
Let’s say, by some miracle, you’ve got leftover cheese straws. Storing them properly is key to preserving their crispy, flaky perfection.
Room Temperature
Cheese straws can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture, or they’ll go soggy. Line the container with a paper towel to absorb excess oil and keep them crisp.
Refrigerator
If your kitchen runs warm or it’s particularly humid, store them in the fridge. Wrap them in parchment paper and then place them in a sealed container. They’ll stay good for about 5-7 days, but they may lose some of their snap. To refresh, pop them in a hot oven (180°C/350°F) for 5-7 minutes.
Freezer-Friendly? Yes!
Cheese straws freeze surprisingly well. Let them cool completely after baking, then freeze in a single layer on a baking tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake straight from frozen at 190°C/375°F for 10 minutes, and they’ll be as good as new.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws?
These cheesy sticks of heaven are versatile little things! Here are some ideas to elevate your snacking game:
1. Soup’s Best Friend
Cheese straws make an excellent accompaniment to a steaming bowl of soup. Think: tomato basil, cream of mushroom, or a classic leek and potato. The buttery crunch against the warm, velvety soup is unbeatable.
2. Wine & Cheese Nights
Make your next wine night extra special by serving these straws alongside charcuterie boards. They go beautifully with aged cheeses, cured meats, olives, and fruit preserves. For wine pairings, try a sharp Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or even a cheeky Malbec if you’ve added spicy elements to the straws.
3. Party Platters & Dips
Serve with hummus, spinach-artichoke dip, or a creamy cheddar beer dip. They’re also great for scooping up thick chutneys or pâtés. Their sturdy texture makes them ideal dippers!
4. Breakfast Or Brunch Buffets
Pair them with scrambled eggs, omelettes, or bacon for a savory twist to your morning spread. Their cheesy goodness adds a gourmet touch to the simplest breakfasts.
5. Afternoon Tea Or Picnic Nibbles
Mary Berry, being the queen of British baking, would likely approve of cheese straws on a proper afternoon tea tray-served with mini quiches, scones, and finger sandwiches. Also perfect for tucking into a picnic hamper, as they travel well and don’t need to be reheated.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws are a masterclass in simple, indulgent baking. Their flaky texture, deep cheesy flavor, and versatile nature make them a go-to for parties, snacks, or a comforting bite on a rainy afternoon. But their charm doesn’t end at the original recipe-there’s a whole world of flavor tweaks, pairing options, and clever storage methods that make them an even more delightful staple in your kitchen.
Whether you’re jazzing them up with herbs and spices, tucking them into a lunchbox, or serving them alongside a warming bowl of soup, these straws are more than just a side-they’re a celebration of comfort and craft. So roll out that dough, fire up the oven, and let the rich, golden scent of cheddar and pastry fill your kitchen. Trust us: your taste buds will thank you.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws?
For Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws, you will need the following ingredients: 225g of plain flour, 100g of cold butter (cubed), 200g of Somerset Cheddar cheese (grated), a pinch of salt, a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional), and a beaten egg to brush on top before baking. These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of crispness and rich cheese flavor.
How Do I Prepare The Dough For Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws?
To prepare the dough for Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws, start by combining the flour, butter, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Next, add the grated Cheddar cheese and pulse again until the cheese is well incorporated into the mixture. If you’re adding cayenne pepper for a bit of heat, include it at this stage. Slowly add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until the dough begins to come together. Once it forms, wrap the dough in cling film and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make rolling easier.
What Is The Best Method To Bake Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws For The Perfect Texture?
To bake Mary Berry’s Somerset Cheddar Cheese Straws to perfection, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Roll the chilled dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 3mm thickness. Cut it into strips of your preferred size. Place the strips on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, and brush them lightly with a beaten egg to give them a golden finish. Bake the straws for around 10-12 minutes, or until they are crisp and golden brown. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary slightly depending on the size of the straws.
