Description
Flaky, buttery puff pastry twists filled with savory cheese and herbs. These quick and customizable appetizers are perfect for parties and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (or plant-based milk for vegan option — for brushing)
- ½ cup shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese (or vegan cheese alternative)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano + basil)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Chili flakes
- Pesto
- Sun-dried tomato spread
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Brush the entire surface lightly with the beaten egg wash or plant-based milk for a vegan version to help the filling adhere and promote browning.
- Add Filling: Evenly sprinkle shredded cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper over one half of the pastry sheet.
- Seal Pastry: Fold the pastry sheet in half, sandwiching the filling inside. Gently press or roll with a rolling pin to seal the edges and flatten the filling slightly.
- Cut Strips: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the folded pastry into ½ to 1 inch wide strips, depending on your preferred size.
- Twist Strips: Take each strip and twist it several times, then place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Press down the ends of each twist to secure them and prevent unraveling during baking.
- Finish and Add Toppings: Brush the tops of the twists lightly with more egg wash or plant milk for a shiny, golden finish. Sprinkle optional toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or chili flakes to add extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the twists to cool slightly on the baking sheet; this will help them crisp up before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make a pesto version by spreading a thin layer of pesto before folding for an herby, flavorful twist.
- Try alternative toppings like sun-dried tomato, olive tapenade, or everything bagel seasoning for variety.
- Best served the same day for optimal crispness, but can be reheated in the oven to regain crunch.
- Freeze unbaked twists on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag; bake directly from frozen adding 2-3 minutes to the cook time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European / Party Food
