Cheese Sticks

It's been years since I made these. Why, I don't really know. They are so simple and so tasty. These Cheese Sticks are my Great Grandma Drader's recipe. I never knew her, but her daughter, my Grandma, taught me how to make these and lot's of other yummy treats. Making them, brings back memories of my Grandma's kitchen and all the wonderful time that was spent there with her.

I was asked to share an original recipe that banishes boring holiday menus and instead showcases delicious grain-based dishes. So, I'm serving a tasty appetizer tray without boring store bought crackers and instead serving these yummy Cheese Sticks. The Grain Foods Foundation has a great web resource called Grains for Your Brain. Not only does the site have lots of great grain centered recipes, but there's lots of valuable information about the benefits of having grains in your diet.

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is all the traditions. There are certain recipes that HAVE to be made this time of year. This recipe should be on the short list. It's an easy appetizer that can be made ahead and even stored in the freezer. Served on a plate with some crisp apple slices and an assortment of yummy prosciutto and salamis, this is a crowd pleaser. These crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside bites are a nice change from all the sweet treats this time of year.

Cheese Sticks
2 cups grated sharp cheddar
4 tbsp. shortening
4 tbsp. water
1 cup flour
2 tsp. baking powder
flaky sea salt (for the tops)

Mix all ingredients together with an electric mixer.  Roll out the dough on a floured surface to just less then 1/4" thick. Cut dough into 1/2" by 3" strips. Top each stick with a generous sprinkling of flaky sea salt. Bake in a 400F oven on parchment lined cookie sheets for just 10 mins. or until they are light golden brown. Store in an airtight container.

This is a sponsored post and I was compensated for my participation. But, the opinions expressed here are my own.