Puff Pastry Cheese Twists

This recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make snack, perfect for cheese lovers. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a savory treat that's guaranteed to impress guests at any gathering. The thin layers of puff pastry bake into a flaky delight, while the cheese adds a rich, savory flavor. The addition of sesame seeds or caraway seeds brings an extra crunch and a hint of nutty aroma. These cheese twists are best served warm from the oven when they're at their crispiest. They can be a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board or served as a standalone appetizer. You might even find them disappearing straight off the baking tray, as their golden appearance and inviting smell are irresistible. The simplicity yet deliciousness of this recipe makes it a favorite go-to for any occasion. Whether you're an experienced baker or a complete novice, these twists are sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Puff pastry
  
• 1 egg
  
• Cheese (grated)
  

Spices and Seeds

• Sesame seeds (or caraway seeds)
  

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes (including prep and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 392°F) to ensure it’s hot when you're ready to bake.
   
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to avoid sticking, keeping it at an even thickness.
   
3. Once rolled, cut the pastry into strips. The size can vary, but usually about 2 cm wide and 10 cm long is ideal for twists.
   
4. In a small bowl, beat the egg thoroughly using a fork or a small whisk until the yolk and white are fully combined.
   
5. Grate your cheese of choice; a sharp cheddar or parmesan works wonderfully for added flavor.
   
6. Using a brush, apply a thin layer of the beaten egg over the surface of the pastry strips. This helps in browning and acts as a glue for the toppings.
   
7. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly across the egg-coated strips, ensuring that each piece gets a good cover.
   
8. Add a generous dusting of sesame or caraway seeds on top of the cheese. These will add a nutty crunch and aromatic flavor.
   
9. Carefully pick up each strip and twist it gently to create a spiral shape. Be sure not to lose the toppings.
   
10. Place the twisted strips onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
    
11. Arrange the twists with some space between them, as they will expand while baking.
    
12. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the twists turn a beautiful golden brown.
    
13. Keep an eye on the twists as they bake; oven temperatures can vary, and you want them perfectly golden but not burnt.
    
14. Once done, remove the tray from the oven and let the twists cool slightly. They will continue to harden as they cool.
    
15. Serve the twists warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
    
16. If desired, pair them with a fresh dip or serve alongside a selection of cured meats and olives.
    
17. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them crispy, although they're best enjoyed fresh.
    
18. These twists are incredibly versatile - try adding herbs or garlic powder to the cheese for a different flavor.
    
19. Reheat any leftover twists in a warm oven to restore their crispiness before serving.
    
20. Enjoy your homemade puff pastry cheese twists as a delightful snack or appetizer!

Tips

• For a spicier twist, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese before baking.
• To prevent pastry from sticking, ensure your surface and rolling pin are lightly dusted with flour.
• If you don’t have sesame seeds, poppy seeds or nigella seeds can be an exciting alternative.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free puff pastry available in many supermarkets.
• Vegan Option: Opt for a plant-based pastry and cheese substitute, and use aquafaba (chickpea brine) instead of the egg.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the cheese twists with a chili pepper jelly for a sweet and spicy contrast.
• Serve alongside a hearty soup or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
• Add to a cheese board with olives, nuts, and fruits for a complete appetizer experience.

Best Places

• Bakery Lorraine - Known for its scrumptious pastries and warm ambience; a must-visit for baked goods enthusiasts. Location: 306 Pearl Pkwy #110, San Antonio, USA.
• Patisserie Poilâne - Famous for traditional breads and pastries, a place where quality and craftsmanship meet. Location: 8 Rue du Cherche-Midi, Paris, France.
• Tartine Bakery - A bakery that has reached a cult status for its bread and innovative pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Pastelería Escribà - Offers a mix of traditional and modern pastries that are both delicious and beautifully presented. Location: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 546, Barcelona, Spain.
• Conditori La Glace - Copenhagen's oldest patisserie, offering legendary cakes and pastries in a charming setting. Location: Skoubogade 3, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Demel - A historic bakery and café, famous for its Viennese coffee culture and mouth-watering pastries. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Il Forno di Giò - Offers authentic Italian pastries with a modern twist, a heaven for pastry lovers. Location: Via del Corso, Rome, Italy.
• Bäckerei Brotgarten - Known for its organic and high-quality bread, a staple in the German baking tradition. Location: Tuerlstrae 6, Munich, Germany.
• Lune Croissanterie - Revered for its world-class croissants and innovative pastries. A must-visit spot for pastry fans. Location: 119 Rose St, Fitzroy, Melbourne, Australia.
• The Big Apple Bakery - A New York staple, blending classic and innovative pastries that delight locals and visitors alike. Location: 1234 7th Avenue, New York, USA.