Age group(s) for this recipe:
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School
Middle School
High School & Beyond

Estimated time:
Preparation takes approximately 45 minutes, strips bake in about 12 to 15 minutes.

Number of servings:
Makes about 16 sticks

Ingredients: (Hit your return key to start a new line)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shortening
2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of finely chopped salami, bologna, or ham
3/4 cup milk

Directions:
Heat the oven to 450°.
Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Cut in shortening, using a pastry blender or by crisscrossing 2 knives, until mixture is crumbly. Stir in cheese and favorite meat. Stir in just enough milk so a soft dough forms.
Sprinkle a surface lightly with flour. Turn the dough onto the floured surface. Knead gently 10 times. Place on a ungreased cookie sheet. Pat dough into an 8-inch square; cut square in half. Cut each half crosswise into 1-inch strips.
Bake strips until golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Serve warm or cool with ketchup, mustard, or your favorite dip.

Other suggestions and comments:
Your child will have fun helping you measure and mix all of the ingredients, kneading, and rolling out the strips. Let your child pick out a favorite sauce or salad dressing for dipping.