Flying in for Christmas December 20 2024

The plane that flew in to pick up their Ritchie Hill Bakery order. Image provided by Crystal Coast Aviation.

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

A whimsical Christmas delivery

Don’t get me wrong, we are excited about each and every order that we send out of Ritchie Hill Bakery’s front door, but this delivery takes the cake! Bakery pun intended.

This month Chad Noble, owner of Crystal Coast Aviation in beautiful Beaufort, NC, ordered Heath’s Cheese Straws and Britt’s Spritz Cookies as gifts for his customers. Being just over 225 miles from Concord as the crow flies, Mr. Noble decided that flying in to pick up his Christmas order would be preferable. I think this story made every Ritchie Hill Bakery family member become completely starry-eyed. How whimsical to have a small plane land and pack in Christmas gifts before sweeping them away to the coast? Packages of product were indeed packed into every open space in the plane’s interior by the pilot that flew in, an image fitting of a Christmas card if there ever was one!

I connected with Mr. Noble this week to thank him for his order and for the amazing anecdote about our family’s small business. We would remember this for Christmases to come! I told him that my dad had flown from Concord to the Outer Banks with a friend who owned a small plane when he was younger, and something about this endeavor felt wholesome and nostalgic. Like a vision of Christmas past in a time forgotten. I was thrilled to hear that the Ritchie Hill Bakery products traveled fabulously. Mr. Noble said, to our delight, “All of our customers have enjoyed the cheese straws and cookies. We will be doing this again next year. The extra box they gave us I gave to my father cause he owned a bakery in Kinston for 40yrs and even he said these were so much better than the ones we used to give our customers in years past.”

Thank you to all of our wonderful customers this Christmas season who make us feel like Santa, sending out small batches of delicious joy. But a special thank you to one customer who adapted Santa’s mode of transportation and gave us the gift of joy in return!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The Ritchie Hill Bakery Family

Between Meals November 25 2024

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

Our Thanksgiving family traditions

All of our love gets poured into Thanksgiving morning. It is baked, it is buttered, it is warm and toasty. It is time-consuming and marvelously savored. It is in the thickness of the gravy, the sweetness of the pie, the carefully plated appetizers shared with loved ones thrumming about the kitchen. The oven schedules, the recipe cards, the soundtrack of commentators, chatter and laughter over football and parades. It is all amazing. It’s all Thanksgiving.

But what do we do when the hustle and bustle of the main event has passed? Some may find a spot to nap. Some settle on the sofa and watch the game. Maybe some go for a walk to get a little fresh air and make room for the next round, or watch the kids run off their never-ending energy outside. For my mom’s side of the family, the answer is cribbage.

I can’t think of a holiday in my grandparents house that didn’t include numbers being shouted at the recently cleared dining room table marking the scores of round after round of cribbage. Slow conversation circles the spectators as we enjoy each other’s company and wait for the casserole dishes to be pulled out and reheated for a much lighter dinner. It’s often the times around the meal, not the meal itself, that have settled into my core memories, so I encourage you to find a special way to unwind and spend your time between meals this Thanksgiving holiday.

From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

The Ritchie Family

Trick-or-Treat, Salty or Sweet? October 22 2024

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

Easy recipe to inspire your fall menu.

October has been filled with fall activities at our house. We rode a tractor to the pumpkin patch, got turned around in a corn maze, won prizes at the county fair, baked countless loaves of pumpkin bread, and camped in the fresh mountain air. When I look at it that way, it’s not hard to believe that it has absolutely flown by! We are trying to soak up every ounce of Halloween hoopla that we can before launching into November and hearing jingle bells.

When it suits our busy calendar, something I have taken interest in this season is looking up new recipes to try — especially Crock-Pot or Instant Pot meals that can make the evening easier. My children are a little older and therefore a little less picky, or at least easier to rationalize with when I tell them it’s what's for dinner, take it or leave it! Several years ago a good friend of mine made us white chicken chili and it’s been drifting around in my brain ever since, so I decided to make a batch this weekend. I’m not a huge fan of chili or soup. Not that I don’t enjoy either made for me, but I never crave them enough to order them at a restaurant or make it a regular thing at home. However, this white chicken chili was so easy and hit the spot. My husband, who loves soup, gave it a 10/10 with nothing he’d change about it!

I'm sharing the recipe I used in case it inspires your fall menu. Also sharing a recipe for the Chocolate Pumpkin Banana bread I’ve been making on repeat, because trick-or-treat! You get salty AND sweet!

White Chicken Chili

(Adapted from The Chunky Chef)

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 32-oz can low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 15-oz cans of great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 4-oz cans of diced green chilis, mild
• 1 15-oz can whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cumin
• 3/4 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp parsley
• 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup half & half
• Tortilla chips
• Shredded Mexican cheese
• Heath’s Cheese Straws

Add chicken breast to the bottom of the slow cooker and top with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, cayenne pepper and parsley. Top with diced onion, minced garlic, beans, chilis, corn and chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Remove chicken and shred before returning to the slow cooker. Add in cream cheese and half & half. To ensure a smooth texture, you can place the softened cream cheese into a separate bowl with a small amount of broth and whisk before adding to the slow cooker.

Top with chips, cheese and Heath's Cheese Straws and enjoy!

Chocolate Pumpkin Banana Bread

(From Krolls Korner)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup 100% pumpkin purée
• 2-3 overripe bananas
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• Mini chocolate chips, to taste

Maple Glaze

• 4 Tbsp salted butter
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• A pinch of salt

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Beat butter and brown sugar together until creamy and add in eggs; beat until combined. Whisk in pumpkin purée, bananas and vanilla. At this point your mixture is going to look a little strange, but not to worry! Add in dry ingredients and fold together until just combined. Now your dough should look normal! Fold in chocolate chips, if desired. You can also sprinkle in unsweetened cocoa powder. Pour evenly between two bread pans. Bake 55-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before adding glaze, or enjoy without!

To make the glaze, melt the butter and maple syrup in the microwave until melted and add in powdered sugar. Sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on top if you want!

For more salty and sweet, don’t forget that you can get 15% off your order of Heath’s Cheese Straws and Britt’s Spritz Cookies through the month of October with promo code “Boo!”

Apple and Spice and Everything Nice September 28 2024

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

It’s that time in August when the general population is over summer.

Stores are putting out fall clothes and decor, the humidity is dropping enough to trick us into being able to wear said fall clothes, and school is is in full swing for the year with all its activities in tow. I told myself I’d wait until at least October to put out fall decorations, but that happened a few days ago after one trip down autumn adorned isles. It’s me, I’m the general population.

Aside from pumpkin spice coffee and some early autumn baking, one of my favorite not-yet-fall snacks is a mug of warm apple cider with a plate of Heath’s Cheese Straws. Cheddar and apple have always been a winning combination, and the subtle heat of our cheese straws goes wonderfully with something warm and sweet like cider. Consider it this Southerner’s tea and biscuits.

At our local farmer’s market this summer, there was a booth that sold ice-cold Apple Spice Lemonade, and it was so good that we’d buy the mix and a cup to go. I wouldn’t have thought that flavor combination would work as well as it did, but the sparkly pink hue peaked my interest and then there was no going back.

If you want to hang onto the summer vibes a little bit longer, try your favorite apple drink with Heath’s Cheese Straws on the side, or combine the best of both seasons with an apple cider shandy like this one.

Happy almost autumn!

Best in Taste 1st Place Award Winner! September 10 2024

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

Our divine cheese straws take first place!

I am over here listening to “Carolina in the Morning,” by the one and only Bing Crosby. I'm nursing a steaming cup of North Carolina-made coffee and snacking on cheese straws while I watch the birds swoop and sway in this satisfyingly cool morning weather. I think he’s right, nothing can be finer than Carolina in the morning! At least with the right snacks and the right weather.

And absolutely nothing can be finer than Carolina cheese straws. Heath’s Original Cheese Straws, that is!

We just received the best news. We won first place in the 2024 NC Specialty Foods ‘Best in Taste’ awards for the entire baked goods category! North Carolina has a savory tooth, and we are here for it!

To thank our wonderful customers, we're taking 10%-off our award-winning Heath’s Original Cheese Straws for the entire month of September. Happy snacking!

Just remember, “nothing is diviner!” 😄

Best,

Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

Cheers to the Dog Days of Summer August 01 2024

Why is it called Dog Days?

During the Dog Days of Summer, (7/22 to 8/22) the Sun and Sirius, the brightest star seen from anywhere on earth and the constellation Canis Major (greater dog) share the same region of the sky. It's also associated with those sultry hot days that mark the end of summer.

So, to make the most of our fleeting summer, we recommend mixing up a summery drink or two: Summer Sangria and Salem Iced Tea. Then, add a touch of Southern hospitality with Heath's Cheese Straws and Britt's Spritz Cookies!

Cheers to the Dog Days of Summer!

Summer Sangria

• 1 cup mixed fresh fruit (such as strawberries, peaches, white grapes)
• 1 bottle dry sparkling wine
• 2 ounces brandy
• 2 ounces vanilla liquor
• 2 ounces grape juice
• 1 small sprig fresh mint

Fill a glass pitcher with ice, add the fruit. Slowly pour in the sparkling wine. Mix remaining ingredients (except the mint) and add to the pitcher. Garnish with mint.

Salem College Iced Tea

Signature beverage at Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC

• 4 sprigs fresh mint
• 8-12 whole cloves
• 3 quarts water
• 1 ounce tea
• juice of 8 lemons
• juice of 6 oranges
• 1 (46-ounce) can pineapple juice
• 1 cup sugar
• thin lemon slices or sprigs of mint

In the Shade of an Old Oak Tree July 24 2024

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

The perfect Southern summer picnic

July in North Carolina is known for things like much-anticipated family beach trips, concerts on the lawn and watermelon festivals, but present for all of those is July’s sizzling temps. With heat indices peaking above 110 degrees, it is no wonder we are focusing on the finer aspects of the season. Enter the perfect summer picnic.

Meant to cool off, refresh and re-energize, a good Southern summer picnic is hard to skip out on. For us, a few key ingredients are a favorite blanket, a happy view, a sweet, ice-cold refreshment and crowd-pleasing finger foods. The only heat we want at our picnic is the comforting spice of Heath’s Cheese Straws, which hold up just fine when stored away on a hot summer day. When it comes to what to pack for a picnic, it’s hard to flop as long as you keep it cool and inviting. Icy watermelon and a family corn salad recipe? Iced tea (sweet, of course) and pimento cheese benders? Chicken salad and a cold can of Cherry Lemon Sundrop?

For the Ritchie-Alm family behind Ritchie Hill Bakery, one of our favorite local items has always been Robert’s Chicken Salad. It was a family must-have for beach weeks back when we walked down a much quieter Lumina Avenue and picked some up from Robert’s Grocery in Wrightsville Beach, NC. Now located in most Harris Teeter and Food Lion stores, we can thankfully grab some off-island to enjoy all summer long.

For me personally, Cherry Lemon Sundrop will always be the special treat I anticipated when traveling from Chapel Hill to Concord to visit my grandmother. To this day, my parents buy a 12-pack to bring home with me to the coast and I stretch them out to last as long as possible. So when it comes to planning your perfect summer picnic, find an old oak tree to sit under and pack the basket with as many favorite things as you can. Maybe a couple items that add nostalgia, and try a little something new and soak up the best of the season.

Happy Summering!!

Father's Day Family Favorites June 04 2024

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

North Carolina gifts for Dad

We have pulled together a few of our favorite items to gift to Dad alongside our cheese straws this Father’s Day, and we thought we’d share! All of these items are made in North Carolina, just like Heath’s Cheese Straws.

First up is always Heath's Cheese Straws, which come in Original or Spicy. Seeing as how the original family recipe came from my grandfather, and was then made by my dad due to high demand, I think it’s a tried-and-true gift option. For a Dad with a sweet tooth, try Britt’s Spritz Cookies!

If you haven’t tried Griff’s Toffee out of Chapel Hill, North Carolina then you’re in for a real treat. I can’t help but pick some up at the store when I see these tasty little squares. Their pecan toffee is delicious, but my husband’s favorite is their coffee toffee. Either way, you can’t go wrong!

Both sweet and salty snacks are the perfect accompaniment to Dad’s favorite brew. As a family, we are a fan of Old Mecklenburg Brewery’s Copper Ale. When their brewery first got started in 2009, Copper Ale was only available to purchase via a growler from a local pub, not in bottles. It was pretty wistful to walk our growler back for refills! Now Copper Ale is available in bottles across the state. I just recently found it in our local grocery store at the coast and texted my parents a picture to share my excitement.

For Dads who know their way around the kitchen, try a bag of Tidewater Grain Co.’s Carolina Gold Rice to go alongside seafood or grilled chicken dinner. I came across an article on Tidewater Grain in Our State magazine two summers ago and was transfixed by the history of Carolina Gold Rice and the company itself. I immediately sought out a bag and took it back home on a visit to see my dad for us to cook together.

For a morning boost, I love Carolina Coffee Co. Favorite blends include Coastal Carolina, Porch Time, and Black Mountain. They are so good that I rarely pick up something new, but we are working our way through trying them all.

Happy shopping local!

End of the school year gifting May 08 2024

Summer is almost here!

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

I feel like it was just February, but here we are tending gardens, pulling out the swimsuits and making plans for Memorial Day weekend! After a bustling spring, I’m very ready for the calm of summer days — even if it means accepting the heat and humidity that’s right around the corner. Waking up to the sunshine and gentle call of the mourning doves, no rush to get off to school, the smell of sunscreen on towels, the promise of fresh vegetables, dinners on the patio … I can’t wait!

As our mindset shifts from all of the writing on the calendar to what is hopefully more of a blank slate for the summer months ahead, let’s talk about end of the school year gifting.

Whether you are saying farewell to a favorite teacher or coach, or a babysitter leaving for the summer, a Snack Pack from Ritchie Hill Bakery is the perfect addition to any gift basket. Take a look at our Pinterest board for some of our favorite gifting inspiration, and then hop on over to our website to add your favorite Snack Pack flavor!

Our Gift Tins are 10% off until May 12th if you need a complete and easy gift that is ready to hand over.

Wishing you all a joyous month of May!

April Showers Bring Tea and Flowers April 15 2024

Mother’s Day Tea Inspiration

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

As we find ourselves in the middle of April already, it’s easy to get carried away in the approaching whimsy of summer. If winter is a time for rest and reflection, summer is easily the time for fun and action, and spring is the slow ramping up of the latter. In the true Southern way, we recommend a slowdown. Set aside the calendar for a weekend, and let spring be soothing and still as much as you can.

Just in time for Mother’s Day planning, we are offering the ultimate slowdown. Why not sip on sweet tea in the sunshine with some light appetizers that anyone can throw together? It's the perfect time to be together and plan for all the exciting days ahead.

Grab a vintage tablecloth, your favorite sweet tea, add some Heath’s Cheese Straws and Britt’s Spritz Cookies for the perfect salty and sweet snack, and try one or two of these for the perfect picnic for mom, or any spring occasion:

Chad’s Chicken Salad

Here’s what you need:

• 6-8 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 stick butter
• Garlic salt
• 3 cups chopped celery
• 3 Tbsp celery salt
• 2 Tbsp celery seed
• 2 Tbsp poultry seasoning
• 2-3 cups mayonnaise

Directions:

1. Sprinkle chicken breast with garlic salt and place in large pot, add butter and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and let simmer 45-60 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool COMPLETELY (overnight is good).
2. Remove chicken from broth (you can save and use broth later).
3. Shred the chicken in large bowl.
4. Add celery, celery salt, celery seed and poultry seasoning and mix well (your hands work best!).
5. Add mayonnaise and mix well.
6. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate 6-8 hours before serving.
7. Adding green or red grapes before serving is good!!

Heath's Pimento Cheese

Here’s what you need:

• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 small jar of diced pimentos
• 6-oz cream cheese
• 12-oz grated sharp cheddar cheese
• Duke's mayonnaise

Directions:

1. Mix together black pepper, celery salt, paprika, pimentos and cream cheese in a good-size bowl.
2. Add grated sharp cheddar cheese and mix.
3. Add Duke's mayonnaise a tablespoon at a time until it will spread to your liking.
4. Adjust spices to taste.

Heath says, "Feta is a delicious addition. An ounce of bourbon can make it fancier, or add a spoonful of Durkee’s Special Sauce, because that's what Mom would have done."

Southern Sweet Tea

The secret to Southern Sweet Tea is in the baking soda! It eliminates any bitterness from the tea.

Here’s what you need:

• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 pinch of baking soda
• 6 tea bags
• 3/4 cups sugar
• 6 cups of cool water

Directions:

1. Sprinkle a pinch of baking soda into 2 cups of boiling water.
2. Add tea bags, cover and steep for 15 minutes.
3. Remove tea bags, stir in sugar until dissolved, and add 6 cups of cool water.

Spring In Full Swing March 11 2024

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

It seems spring has sprung in North Carolina! With an early Easter this year, I suppose that is fitting! With all of the spring buzz, we wanted to bring you a couple of quick and easy festive ideas for spreading some seasonal cheer.

Easter Gift Bags

I think the presentation can be just as exciting as the present, so in true Southern form, I often like to jazz up the packaging. I had soccer team snack bags in mind for these, but they are perfect for gifting to teachers, coaches or neighbors alike! All you need is a brown paper lunch bag, a cotton ball or pom poms, paper Easter grass, and a darling ribbon and you can fill these little treat bags with anything they’ll fit!

(Fun fact, our snack size Heath's Cheese Straws and Britt's Spritz Cookies fit perfectly!)

My kids will love making their own bunnies to take to their teachers before spring break.

St. Paddy Spritz Mix

Another seasonal activity that’s fun to make AND eat: St. Paddy Spritz Mix! If you thought Britt’s Spritz Cookies were addictive before, don’t hesitate to try them with white candy coating! My Aunt Beth always made Britt’s Spritz Cookies for us with rainbow nonpareils as kids, so this adds a nice dose of nostalgia for me.

Here’s what you need:

• Ritchie Hill Bakery Britt’s Spritz Cookies
• Lucky Charms cereal (I used Lucky Charms S’mores because it’s what we had, and highly recommend for this mix, but any Lucky Charms will do)
• Vanilla candy coating (or any white melting chocolate)
• Gold edible sparkle dust
• Rainbow sprinkles

Directions:

1. Separate the marshmallows from your cereal in your Lucky Charms.
2. Break up Britt's Spritz Cookies into bite-size bits and mix in a large bowl with your cereal, setting the marshmallows aside.
3. Melt vanilla candy coating or white chocolate according to package instructions. Immediately add melted candy coating to large bowl of cereal and cookies.
4. Spread out on parchment paper and quickly add sprinkles and sparkle dust, then add marshmallows and gently toss together.

The great thing about a mix like this is the endless sweet and salty additions to make it your own! And you can switch the sprinkles or marshmallows to fit the occasion.

Here’s to a happy and fun-filled spring ahead!

Just Us Spring Chickens - A Sweet Ritchie Family Tradition March 01 2024

By Elizabeth Ritchie Sherrill

In March of 2022, I found myself the owner of two chickens: a picturesque Rhode Island Red whom we named Lucy and a beautiful Columbian Wyandotte, the perfect Ethel. Their original owners were moving overseas and gave us their two hens and their entire setup. At this point, I had zero knowledge about chicken ownership and only a small inclination to take them on in the first place. Turns out, chickens are amazing!

Fast forward to March of 2023, where I couldn’t order baby chicks fast enough, and here we are in March of 2024, with a beloved backyard flock the size of a baker’s dozen!

It’s fascinating, the impressions that backyard chickens can leave on a person. Whether they are kept for pets, eggs, or meat, it seems that anyone who comes across chickens finds them endearing and has more than a handful of great stories to tell. My dad, Heath, and Aunt Beth both recall their family farm which existed on Ritchie Hill prior to WWII. The farm once included milk cows, pigs, and chickens which served both the household and the family grocers in Downtown Concord. Along with the livestock, their Aunt Margaret had one pony and their Uncle Dan raised hunting dogs. By the time they were born, only the chicken coop and a small shed remained on the family farm. They both recall receiving baby chicks and ducklings each Easter morning which went on to live in the coop outside. A small reminder of the family farm that once was.

One of my favorite things about stumbling into chicken ownership has been the shared experiences. I seek out the old memories that the mere mention of chickens can bring up for someone. Recently my maternal grandfather told me the story of Sammy She on his grandparents’ farm in West Virginia. “Sammy She” was originally a rooster named Sammy who turned out not to be a rooster at all, but a hen, and she was the only chicken to be allowed inside. I’m not sure how that invitation came to be, but she would sit on a kitchen chair and spread her wings to warm them by the wood stove, and that simple memory of a chicken has stuck with him his entire life.

From the stories I have heard throughout my life (around the Thanksgiving table especially), I would have loved to glimpse back in time at my family then. Both sides. It makes the connection now all the more special to in some small way be doing something that my relatives were doing a century ago. I can’t wait to hear what my children say about the chickens of their childhood.

Hopefully, not all of them include being terrified of our rooster, Ricky Roocardo.

Our family's favorite Super Bowl chili January 24 2024

By Beth Ritchie Alm

For some reason, cold weather, football and especially the Super Bowl calls for chili. We all have our favorite chili recipe, and like our family's cheese straw recipe, chances are it has been handed down for generations.

We think our recipe tastes best with Heath’s Cheese Straws crumbled on top!

Gather together and enjoy the big game!

The Ritchies

Ritchie Hill Chili Recipe

Serves 4-6

• 2 pounds lean hamburger
• 2 T. peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
• 1½ T. hot commercial chili powder (or to taste)
• 1 T. whole cumin seeds
• 1 T. Worcestershire sauce
• 1 large (28 oz) can of diced tomatoes
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 16-oz can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed (black beans work well too)
• Salt, ground pepper, and hot sauce to taste

Brown the beef in the oil along with the onion, garlic and chili powder until the meat is brown and the onion is clear.

Drain the fat and add all remaining ingredients (except for the canned kidney beans which can be added in the last 30 minutes).

Simmer for at least 1½ hours.

Chili is always at its best a day or two after making it.

Topping Ideas:

• Heath’s Cheese Straws
• Chopped green onions
• Grated cheddar or Monterey jack cheese
• Sour cream
• Chopped tomatoes
• Hot sauce

What the heck is a cheese straw? January 09 2024

And why are they called straws?

(That’s our #1 FAQ!)

By Beth Ritchie Alm

We’ll just admit we have no idea why cheese straws are called straws. You certainly can’t drink anything through them. We can only guess it’s because of their traditional long, narrow shape. Or, it’s possible they were named by the Brits who often have creative names for things.

Cheese straws origins

Some food historians believe the cheese straw originated in England with the British shortbread “biscuit.” Others cite the biscotti and hard breads of Italy and Spain. But most agree that, regardless of their start, the cheese straw adapted well to southern life and may in fact have originated in the Southeast.

This article from Bourbon and Boots* written by Libby Murphy as a wonderful summary of what we know and don’t know.

"Cheese straws are one of life’s little pleasures, nothing fancy, just addicting. Chances are you probably cut your teeth on them if you’re of a certain age and grew up in the South. They’ve long been the go-to staple for cocktail parties, church potlucks, wedding receptions, and funeral food alike. Practically every family has a recipe that was passed down to the next generation and no one really thought much about it."

"Or at least not until boutique bakeries began shipping these crispy cheesy biscuits all over the country. Katy bar the door, the demand rose like the temperatures in August; cheese straws were born again and are all the rage at parties and for hostess gifting from coast to coast. These buttery cheesy pastries will melt in your mouth and if you don’t believe it, just try it."

"According to lore, the hot and humid southern temperatures gave rise to the cheese straw as a way to preserve cheese. Reportedly, they were served along the Carolina coast pre-Civil War and The White House Cookbook (1887) includes the first known recipe for them per se. Food historians can’t agree on the exact origin but most tend to believe that cheese straws are of American origin first baked in Southern kitchens"

"Cheese straws were served at a White House dinner in 1913 hosted by President Woodrow Wilson. According to the Library of Congress, they were also on President Franklin Roosevelt’s Thanksgiving table in 1937. Magnolia’s — the restaurant inside Atlanta’s heart and soul department store, Rich’s — served thousands of them over the years, and the Historic Mobile (Alabama) Preservation Society hosted a cook-off in 2012 to determine the best cheese straws in all the land."

"Like lightening bugs, honeysuckle, and hot summer nights, cheese straws are part of the vernacular in the South. From Steeplechase picnics in Nashville to tailgating in the Grove at Ole Miss; cheese straws are as popular as ever. Florida’s Executive Residence kept a ready supply in the freezer at Gov. Bob Graham’s request, and the mecca of fine dining in New Orleans, The Commander’s Palace, even featured these tasty nibbles in their cook book."

"Cheese Straws are one of the most versatile foods on the planet. They are apt to show up at wine-tastings, picnics, debutante balls, christening brunches, or as afternoon snacks. Sometimes as stand-ins for croutons or crackers or even with the cheese course at elegant dinners – could the South exist without them? Nothing pairs with a libation better, so it’s any wonder that in the land where a good cocktail party is an institution, they remain the appetizer of choice.?

Cheese straws remain a Southern delicacy

So, while the origin may be inconclusive, the cheese straw stands the test of time as the South’s favorite snack. Like most southern families, our Heath’s Cheese Straws recipe has been handed down for generations. Our bakery manager Charles Ritchie is a fourth-generation cheese straw master. We pride ourselves on a classic southern version with extra sharp cheddar cheese and a spicy finish that builds until you reach for the next one. They are the quintessential Southern delicacy.

*Note: Exerpt from a Bourbon and Boots (bourbonandboots.com) post, February 12, 2013 by Libby Murphy

Christmas Crafts and Cookies December 20 2023

By Liz Ritchie Sherrill

Twinkling lights, frosty mornings, Christmas cookies … I know we may not feel this way come January, but right now I love everything about this time of year! It’s the coziest season with so many festive things to squeeze in. Our crew is officially on winter break, and during a season when everything is so busy it feels like we are finally slowing down. What do we do with our newfound spare time? Crafts and baking, of course!

Here is an easy Christmas craft for adults and children of all ages. Repurpose an outdated frame ornament or make your own with popsicle sticks. We used a mixed bag of Christmas buttons that you can find at a craft or hobby store, as well as some tiny ornaments and assorted Christmas craft accessories from Hobby Lobby last year. For my older kids we used a hot glue gun to secure everything in place, and white paint to cover old picture frames. For my three year old, we used glue dots, which worked perfectly well to hold everything in place! Then we took Polaroid pictures for each of their ornaments and I used some old Christmas card stock as the photo backing, but construction paper or wrapping paper would work as well. They turned out so cute and I will treasure them forever! The kids were so happy with something they could see through from start to finish and hang on the tree.

Next on my list is making cookies for Santa. I thought he might enjoy some Britt’s Spritz Cookies, but my children want to break out all the frosting and sprinkles, so it looks like we will be making some cutout Spritz cookies! If you need any cookie inspiration, check out our Pinterest page. Our family recipe uses a unique blend of almond and cardamom in our Britt’s Spritz cookies to make them taste like home.

Wishing you and your family a joyous and peaceful Christmas, and a Happy New Year!

Best,

Liz & The Ritchie Family

A Thoughtful Thanksgiving November 20 2023

By Liz Ritchie Sherrill

When it comes to Thanksgiving, it’s all about the table for me. I’ve had Thanksgiving at many different tables: the expansive, antique behemoth in my grandparents’ historic Victorian surrounded by cousins I rarely saw between the holidays and our summer vacation, the multitude of folding tables in a beloved communal space with the same neighborhood families who have celebrated together for decades, and even a military Friendsgiving in a small house on a military base surrounded by the people who knew best what life was like for us all in those moments. My memories drift back to handmade crafts as the centerpieces, lovingly constructed garlands, hand-picked greenery, and of course, the faces surrounding it all.

How do you capture that? The love and nostalgia, the simplicity of togetherness? I can recall heading outside to gather magnolia branches at my grandmother’s, to bring them in and arrange them on a mirrored centerpiece. I remember the crystal bowls filled with assorted nuts while we waited for our meal. The pickle and olive tray is still a staple I will throw a fit over if it’s forgotten. Even getting to light or snuff out the candle sticks stands out in my mind as a special occurrence. It was all lovely in that it was simple, but also special.

So this year, keep it simple and let the details speak for themselves. If you need some inspiration beyond your own Thanksgivings past, take a look at some of the tables we love this year.

Happiest of Thanksgivings from our family to yours,

Liz & the Ritchie Family

P.S. Nothing says Thanksgiving like a favorite family recipes. Beck sure to check out one of our Ritchie family favorites: Molasses Cookies by Buff Ritchie.

Buff's Molasses Cookies November 19 2023

• ½ cup molasses (Buff used original flavor, not bold)
• ½ cup shortening
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 ½ cups sifted flour
• ½ tsp. salt
• ¼ tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. ground cloves
• ½ tsp. ginger
• ½ tsp. cinnamon

Falling for the season October 18 2023

By Liz Ritchie Sherrill

We all fall wholeheartedly for what seems to be the South’s shortest season. The colors begin to subtly shift and we crave a crisp mountain day, meandering through mountain roads and only stopping to admire the views. Summer stays a bit too long, and winter arrives a bit too early. For some of you, the beloved season arrives in sudden abundance, but for us less fortunate fall fanatics, we have to encourage fall to show up in more creative ways.

The kitchen is my favorite way to stir up fall enthusiasm. If you can’t see or feel fall, you can at least taste it. There’s no shortage of recipes featuring pumpkin or caramel, but this recipe is my favorite twist on cheesecake and happens to be perfect for cozy season. I first made this for my daughter’s preschool bake sale several years ago and it was a huge hit, so I have made it for gifting and sharing ever since.

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

(from delish.com)

For the crust:

• 9 graham crackers (1 sleeve), finely crushed
• 6 tbsp melted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• a pinch of kosher salt

For the filling:

• 4 8-oz blocks of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1/4 tsp Kosher salt

For the topping:

• 1/3 cup superfine sugar
• crème brûlée torch

Preheat oven to 325 degrees and grease a 8-9" springform pan with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Press into the bottom of prepared pan and up the sides.

Make filling by using a hand mixer to beat the cream cheese and sugar together until no lumps remain. Add eggs and egg yolks, then stir in vanilla and sour cream. Add flour and salt and beat until just combined. Pour mixture over the crust.

Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil. You will want to do this in a few layers to keep out water, but even if a little gets through the cake turns out great. Place in a large roasting pan and pour in enough boiling water to come halfway up the cake pan, making sure it does not pass the top of the aluminum foil.

Bake until the center only slightly jiggles, approximately 90 minutes. Turn off the heat, prop open the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour in the oven.

Remove foil and refrigerate at least 5 hours before serving.

Just before serving, sprinkle superfine sugar generously over the top and torch for the crunchy, crème brûlée top.

Aside from summoning autumn in the kitchen, our family loves a good craft or two. Here are a few favorites we came across this season:

Pinecone Bat

• 1 pine cone, opened or closed
• black or brown construction paper
• cardboard
• X-acto knife
• glue
• googly eyes
• glitter (optional)

Leaf Pumpkin

• cardboard
• X-acto knife
• collected leaves and fall flowers
• glue

Bean Ghost

• cardboard
• black marker
• navy beans
• glue
• glitter (optional)

Tailgating with a Southern Accent September 15 2023

Ritchie Family Tailgating Favorites

Football season is upon us, and whether you are a burger & brats crowd or prefer to break out the chicken wings, we have the perfect additions to your menu to add a Southern touch to touchdown season.

Southerners like to add a little zip to any occasion we come across, like an additional accent on top or our already endearing, southerly drawl. For the Ritchie family, that accent is cheese straws. Whether tailgating, packing a picnic, or laying out the buffet, cheese straws fit right in. To help enhance your weekend watching we have gathered a few ideas for your next game day menu, with cheese straws in mind of course!

We can’t imagine a Southern affair where deviled eggs aren’t deemed perfectly appropriate, and football is no exception — an easy go-to that you can prepare in advance and is sure to disappear by halftime. For an uncommon “wow” factor, try them sprinkled with Heath’s Cheese Straws for the perfect crispy, crumbly finish.

Ritchie-Style Deviled Eggs

• 12 hardboiled eggs, halved with yolks removed
• 4-6 tbsp Duke’s mayonnaise (to desired consistency and taste)
• Spicy Brown mustard (or Dijon mustard) to taste
• paprika, parsley, & crumbled cheese straws for garnish
• 2 ounces grape juice
• the adorable deviled egg platter carefully tucked into every Southerner’s pantry

Traditional Ham and cheese biscuits are no strangers to the football scene, but this weekend let some of our cheese straws handle the cheddar and try this tasty alternative instead:

Poppy Seed Ham & Cheese Sliders

• 1 flat of 24 King’s Hawaiian Rolls
• slices of your favorite Swiss cheese
• sliced ham
• 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 5 tbsp yellow mustard
• 4 tbsp poppy seeds
• 2 tbsp finely minced sweet onion
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• heavy pinch of salt

Mix the butter, mustard, poppy seeds, minced onion, salt, and Worcestershire sauce together. Cut the entire flat of Hawaiian rolls horizontally and lift the top layer, spread each cut side with mixture. Stack ham and cheese slices and replace top roll layer. Place on a cookie sheet, cut between each roll to separate, and bake at 350 for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil if desired.

*Original source: Jenni Fields, pastrychefonline.com

Try adding a chilled salad, such as a classic corn salad, or simply cold watermelon topped with feta cheese for some refreshing variety. And in a sea of brownie and cookie possibilities, pack a punch with another make-ahead favorite, Kentucky Bourbon Balls.

Wherever your menu takes you, we wish your team the best of luck! Happy tailgating!

The Ritchies

How our Spicy Cheese Straws get that extra-spicy kick August 15 2023

A slow-building spicy finish

Heath's Spicy Cheese straws are a tad spicier than the original recipe for those who like a bit more kick. Aunt Margaret Ritchie was known for throwing in an extra dose of cayenne when she made them. That's the flavor we were going for.

Our Bakery Manager, Charles Ritchie attended Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School in Pittsburg and was well versed in spices so, to replicate Margaret's spicy version, he not only added more cayenne to the original recipe, he threw in two more spices: Chipotle and Datil Pepper. Datil Pepper is an unusual variety of pepper that it is unique to the state of Florida, specifically St. Augustine, and is shrouded in mystery about its origin.

Before launching our spicy version, we asked Heath's Cheese Straw fans to sample and vote on three versions of our spicy recipe and this is the one they picked by a landslide. The result is a slow-building spicy finish that is truly addictive. The unique blend of spices puts them in a class all their own.

We hope you'll try them out and let us know what you think!

The Ritchies

The Picnic Spritz July 12 2023

Here's a nod to the British heritage of cheese straws: The Picnic Spritz.

The jury is still out on exactly where cheese straws originated, but some food historians believe they were derived from the British "biscuit."

This refreshing Picnic Spritz is made with PIMM'S^® liqueur of London and pairs especially well with Heath's Cheese Straws and Wimbledon Tennis.

The Picnic Spritz
for two

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 oz PIMM'S^®
• 4 oz lemonaide
• 1 1/2 oz bubbly
• cucumber + mint for garnish

Instructions

Fill two wine glassed with ice, add Pimm's^® and lemonade to each, and top with bubbly. Garnish with cucumber slices and sprigs of mint.

Cheers!

Hoppin' John Recipe January 06 2022

Hoppin' John is a Southern New Year's tradition, believed to bring good luck all year if served on New Year's Day.

Here's our family's easy recipe:

Hoppin' John

Serves 6 to 8

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbs. vegetable oil (or may use bacon drippings)
• 1/2 pound of ham (or bacon), cut into bits
• 2-3 cans of black-eyed peas
• 1-2 cans diced tomatoes
• 1/2 to 1 tsp.salt
• 1 tsp. ground black pepper
• cayenne pepper (to taste)
• steamed/cooked white or brown rice
• hot pepper sauce (optional)
• sliced green onion for garnish

Saute' onion, bell pepper and garlic in oil (or bacon drippings). Add the ham or bacon and continue sautéing for a few minutes then add all other ingredients. Simmer about 30 minutes or until tender, then serve over warm rice with a dash of hot pepper sauce and a garnish of green onions.

Three treats for a winning tailgate. September 22 2016

Aside from our own shameless plug for Heath's Cheese Straws (which happen to come in three perfectly large sizes for tailgating), we teamed up with our friends at VAIN vanilla extracts, and Mrs. Ruth's Jams to bring you two additional winning recipes. 

VAIN makes some seriously incredible vanilla extracts, using high-quality spirits and the best vanilla beans available. So, if you want to take your cooking and baking up a notch, check em' out!

Mrs. Ruth's Jams is home to artisanal jams using the freshest local produce from North Carolina farmers. All are prepared seasonally, using the best of local fruits. It's love in a jar. 

Without further ado, here are the recipes: 

Mrs. Ruth's Jams (from Ruth's dear friend Marilyn) Pimento-less Cheese Spread & Sandwich Filling

Combine: 

• 8 ounces of freshly grated Extra Sharp cheddar cheese (creamier if freshly grated)

• 1/3 cup of your favorite mayonnaise

• 2 dashes  ground cayenne pepper (or to taste)

• ¼ cup Mrs. Ruth’s  Hot Pepper, Peach Jalapeno, Pineapple Jalapeno  or Cranberry Jalapeno Jam

Mix until blended;  Serve on toasted baguettes or  fill sliced cherry tomatoes
Sprinkle with bacon crumbles.

Here's to a winning season!

The Ritchies

Mint Juleps, Mother's Day, and Morsels from Ritchie Hill Bakery April 20 2016

Ahhh, spring.You're finally here. We missed your big hats, glorious colors, and picnics on the lawn. With Mother's Day around the corner and the Kentucky Derby around the bend, we're ready to celebrate. 

In the spirit of celebration, check out these two favorite springtime libations. They're perfectly paired with some freshly-baked morsels from Ritchie Hill Bakery!

Two of our southern favorites are "Creating a Stir” mint julep from Lexington Kentucky. (Who better to have a mint julep recipe?) And “Heritage of Hospitality” iced tea from the Junior League of Winston-Salem, NC, where Moravian traditions are still treasured in Old Salem: home of Salem College.

Kentucky Mint Juleps 
From “Creating a Stir” published by The Fayette County Medical Auxiliary in 2000 for the benefit of Kentucky’s Children.

Ingredients 

• 4 cups shaved or crushed ice (do not use ice cubes)
• Sugar Syrup (below)
• 1 pint quality bourbon whiskey
• 6 fresh mint sprigs for garnish
• Powdered sugar

Sugar Syrup

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 bunch fresh mint

Serving

Pack ice into 6 julep cups to within 1/2 inch from top; add 1 jigger Sugar Syrup and 1-2 jiggers bourbon to each cup, stirring until cup frosts; Dip mint sprigs in powdered sugar and place 1 in each serving. Serve with a cocktail napkin (cups are quite chilly).

"About the mint julep: The word julep originally referred to a nonalcoholic medicinal syrup. However, by the mid eighteenth century, when the average American, including women and children, consumed two and a half gallons of spirits a year (much of it before breakfast!), the julep was made primarily with spirits and in our county most often with mint. Many times, the julep was taken after waking in the morning because it was thought to aid in fighting fevers that might have arisen from the night air and hot climates. Juleps were originally made with Maderia but postbellum Southerners replaced that with bourbon whiskey, sugar, water, fresh mint and crushed ice, mixed and typically served in a frosted silver julep cup. They are a Kentucky tradition often associated with the Kentucky Derby.” Creating a Stir.

Directions

Add mint and cloves to water; bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat. Add tea and allow to steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain, and while still hot, add fruit juices and sugar. Stir to dissolve sugar. Makes about 4 1/2 quarts.

“The best iced tea in the world, and one reason loyal alumnae enjoy returning at commencement time.” Heritage of Hospitality