14/10/2026
Rosemary would describe herself as a simple cook, taking great pride in preparing wholesome, everyday meals for her family. She spent many years cooking both for and alongside her loved ones, focusing on the essentials that brought everyone together around the table.
Rosemary thoroughly enjoys taking part in our cooking sessions at Skelton Court, where she is always happy to demonstrate her skills and share her experience with others. This Christmas, she is looking forward to getting involved with some seasonal baking and cooking activities inspired by ideas contributed by her daughter.
A keen baker, Rosemary has always loved making pastry-based treats, and one of her all-time favourites is a classic cheese straw. Her enthusiasm for traditional home baking continues to shine through whenever she joins us in the kitchen.
Rosemary is a wonderful example of how the simplest cooking is often the most memorable. She spent many years preparing home-cooked meals for her family, focusing on the everyday dishes that brought comfort, nourishment, and joy to those around her. Cooking was always at the heart of family life, and Rosemary takes great pride in the skills and knowledge she developed over the years.
Today, Rosemary continues to share her passion for food by enthusiastically joining our cooking sessions at Skelton Court. She loves demonstrating traditional techniques, sharing tips from her own experience, and inspiring others to get involved. With the festive season approaching, Rosemary is particularly excited to take part in Christmas baking activities, including some seasonal ideas kindly suggested by her daughter.
A talented home baker, Rosemary has always had a special love for pastry making. One of her most treasured favourites is the humble cheese straw, a classic recipe that showcases her skill and reminds her of the many happy hours spent baking for family and friends. Her warmth, enthusiasm, and wealth of culinary experience make her a valued and much-loved member of our cooking sessions.
Easy Cheese Straws
Makes: 20-24 cheese straws
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12-15 minutes
Ingredients
• 225g plain flour
• 100g cold butter, diced
• 150g mature Cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 tsp mustard powder (optional)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika (optional)
• 1 egg yolk
• 2-3 tbsp cold water
• Freshly ground black pepper
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas Mark 6.
2. Rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. Stir in the grated cheese, mustard powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
4. Mix in the egg yolk and enough cold water to bring the mixture together into a firm dough.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 5mm thick.
6. Cut into strips approximately 1cm wide and 10cm long.
7. Twist each strip gently and place on a lined baking tray.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and crisp.
9. Leave to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
