Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Grate the sharp cheddar cheese using a cheese grater.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and grated cheese. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Sift in the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently until it forms a cohesive ball.
Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Cut the rolled-out dough into strips about 1/2 inch wide.
Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes.
Once baked, let the cheese straws cool on a wire rack before serving.