Paula Deen'S Zesty Cheese Straws - cooking recipe

Ingredients

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)

Preparation

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
Make sure cheese and butter are room temperature.
In a mixing bowl, cream the butter until light and fluffy.
Add the cheese and mix until blended.
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.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the dough, then place it in a cookie press, fitted with a ridged tip.
Pipe the dough in 2 inch strips onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Remove to racks to cool.
**Updated**.
I've discovered these are very tastey using dried herbs also.
I've made them with dill but can see me making them with thyme and sage before too long.