Paula Deen'S Zesty Cheese Straws

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
• 2 -3 teaspoons dried herbs (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
2. Make sure cheese and butter are room temperature.
3. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter until light and fluffy.
4. Add the cheese and mix until blended.
5. Add the flour, salt and red pepper (I used 1/2 tsp) this is when you would add dried herbs if using, mix to form a dough.
6. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the dough, then place it in a cookie press, fitted with a ridged tip.
7. Pipe the dough in 2 inch strips onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
8. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
9. Remove to racks to cool.
10. **Updated**.
11. I've discovered these are very tastey using dried herbs also.
12. I've made them with dill but can see me making them with thyme and sage before too long.

butter, cheddar cheese, flour, salt, ground red pepper, herbs

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/paula-deens-zesty-cheese-straws-133584 (may not work)