If you’re hunting down a recipe for gluten free cheese straws that actually tastes like a treat (and not just a compromise), you’re in the right spot.
We’ve tested this one more than a few times, and it never makes it to the next day. These crispy, golden twists are full of sharp cheddar flavor and just the right crunch—the kind of snack that disappears as soon as they hit the table.
And because we believe cheese recipes should always start with the best, we’re using our Goot Essa Mountain Valley Sharp Cheddar. Aged for flavor and full of that rich, crumbly bite, it holds up beautifully in this easy, bake-at-home treat.
Gluten-Free Cheese Straw Basics
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15–18 minutes | Serves: 6–8 as a snack
Ingredients
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1 ½ cups almond flour
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1 cup shredded Goot Essa Mountain Valley Sharp Cheddar
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2 tablespoons tapioca starch (or cornstarch)
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¼ teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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¼ teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
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1 egg, beaten
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Extra cheese or herbs for topping (optional)
How to make it
Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, tapioca starch, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Stir in the shredded cheddar.
Add the cubed butter and work it into the dry ingredients with your hands or a fork until it looks crumbly. Stir in the beaten egg until the dough comes together.
Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to about ¼ inch thick. Slice into thin strips about ½ inch wide and 4–6 inches long.
Twist each strip gently and lay them on the prepared baking sheet. If you’d like, sprinkle on a little extra cheese or some dried herbs for a finishing touch.
Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and crisp. Let them cool slightly before enjoying.
Small-Batch Flavor in Every Bite
We like serving these straws with soup, salads, or just a handful alongside lunch. What makes them special is our Mountain Valley Sharp Cheddar. Made in small batches, aged in our cheese cave, and packed with bold flavor, it gives these straws their signature tang and richness.
It’s a great way to turn a simple gluten-free snack into something that feels homemade in the best way.
Rooted in Flavor, Made for Sharing
When we make cheese, we think about the kind of food folks want to gather around. Each block we produce starts with fresh milk from our own community and is crafted by hand, aged with care, and sent out ready to bring bold flavor to your table. Whether you're baking something gluten free or planning your next get-together, our cheeses are made to fit right in.
Take a look through our collection of small-batch cheeses, snacks, and gift boxes. However you’re cooking, we’re proud to help make it a little more special.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different Goot Essa cheese in this recipe?
Yes. Der Alpen Cheese melts beautifully and adds a nutty richness. Garden Pepper Cheddar brings a touch of heat if you're after a spicier version.
What’s the best way to store these cheese straws?
Once they’re fully cooled, keep them in an airtight tin or container at room temperature. They’ll keep their crunch for a couple of days.
Can they be frozen?
They sure can. Freeze after baking, then reheat briefly in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked crispness.
