Palitinhos de queijo fáceis com massa quebradiça

Ingredientes

• 60 g salted butter (fridge temperature cut into cubes (Note 1))
• 90 g plain/ all-purpose flour ((Note 2))
• 1 egg (yolk and white separated)
• 50 g Parmesan cheese (finely grated with two tablespoons set aside for the topping (Note 3))
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp mustard powder ((Note 4))
• 1 tsp dried chives ((Note 5))

Modo de preparo

1. 1

   In a mixing bowl, combine the cold butter cubes and flour. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. 2

   Add the egg yolk, Parmesan cheese (except for the 2 tablespoons set aside for topping), ground nutmeg, mustard powder, and dried chives to the bowl. Mix until well combined and use your hands to bring the dough together into a ball.

3. 3

   Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes. (Note 6)

4. 4

   Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. 5

   Lightly flour a clean work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Roll the dough into a rectangular shape, about 6mm / 1/4 inch thick.

6. 6

   Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into thin strips, about 1.5cm or 1/2 inch wide and 10cm/4 inches long.

7. 7

   Carefully transfer the cut cheese straws onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each straw to allow for spreading during baking.

8. 8

   Brush the tops of the cheese straws with egg white to give them a golden colour and a nice shine.

9. 9

   Sprinkle on the extra Parmesan.

10. 10

    Bake in the middle of the oven for 10 minutes until golden.

11. 11

    Remove and cool on the tray for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

12. 12

    Serve the cheese straws as a delicious snack or appetiser or store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.