Spicy Cheese Straws

A simple recipe for a great snack food that can be taken to parties or just made at home for the family.

1 1/2 cup butter or 1/2 c. shortening
1 lb. grated sharp cheddar cheese (I substitute with Gouda but other cheeses can also be used)
2 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. dry mustard
3/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

Add all ingredients into a mixing bowl. After combining ingredients well with a mixer, knead ingredients into a smooth dough. Shape into either skinny straws or into 1/2 inch wide by 1 1/2 inch wide "sticks" and place one inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F (170 Celsius) for 12-15 minutes or until they start to turn golden brown (the skinnier you shape them the less time they will need to bake). Allow to cool a few minutes on the baking sheet then transfer to a cooling rack. They are yummy hot and/or cool! Store in an airtight container up to two days.