The Swan House in Atlanta is a stunning historic home in Buckhead, home to The Swan Coach House restaurant, where Bernice and Claire share a meal together in the novel. These crunchy cheese straws are the perfect companion to their famous chicken salad and frozen fruit salad.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shredded cheddar cheese, brought to room temperature
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix all ingredients together until the cheese is well-incorporated and the mixture is fully combined (the shreds of cheese should disappear). Roll to 1/4 inch thick on a lightly floured surface or between two sheets of parchment paper. Using a pizza wheel (works wonderfully), cut into 1/2 x 3-inch strips. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Best to buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself while chilled, then let it come to room temperature—store-bought shredded cheese has added fillers that can alter the final texture and taste.
If you're ever in Atlanta, visit The Swan House and treat yourself to the Swan Coach House Classic—chicken salad in timbales with frozen fruit salad and cheese straws on the side!
