Blue Cheese enhances flavor of classic Southern appetizer

NASHVILLE Tenn. - Flaky little cheese straws are one of the classic symbols of Southern hospitality. Delicate and flavorful, these little appetizers are served at celebrations throughout the year.

Usually made with a good sharp Cheddar, cheese straws or wafers with the addition of a little blue cheese will add an extra punch of flavor to your parties.

Blue and Cheddar Cheese Straws and Wafers

6 oz. (1 1/2 cups) shredded
sharp Cheddar cheese
4 oz. crumbled blue cheese
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground red
pepper (cayenne)

Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease large baking sheet. In small bowl, combine cheeses and butter; beat with electric mixer until blended. In medium bowl, combine flour, salt and ground red pepper; mix well. Add to cheese mixture; beat in or stir until well blended. If dough is very soft, cover and refrigerate 1 hour.

Form dough into smooth ball. On lightly floured surface, roll out dough until very thin, about 1/8- inch thickness. With sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut dough into 5x1/2-inch sticks or cut into 1 1/2-inch rounds with small biscuit cutter. Place on greased cookie sheet.

Bake at 375 degrees F. for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool at least 15 minutes on wire rack before serving. (60 to 72 appetizers)