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Easy Puff Pastry Cheese Twists - Make Great Appetizers

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed but still cold
  • 1 cup finely grated hard cheese (Parmesan, Pecorino, or a sharp aged cheddar)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon water (to loosen the egg wash)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning), optional
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of salt (go light if your cheese is salty)
  • Flour, for dusting the work surface

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep. Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly dust your counter with flour.
  2. Roll the pastry. Unfold the puff pastry and roll it into a rectangle about 10x12 inches. Keep it cold so it stays easy to handle.
  3. Add flavor. Whisk the egg with water. If using Dijon, whisk it into the egg wash. Brush a thin layer over the pastry.
  4. Cheese it up. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the surface. Add garlic powder, herbs, black pepper, and a tiny pinch of salt.
  5. Seal and flatten. Place a piece of parchment on top and gently roll once or twice to press the cheese into the dough. This helps it stick while twisting.
  6. Cut strips. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into strips about 1/2 to 3/4 inch wide.
  7. Twist. Lift each strip, hold both ends, and give 3–4 firm twists. Lay each twist on the baking sheet, pressing the ends down slightly so they hold their shape.
  8. Brush and bake. Lightly brush the tops with remaining egg wash. Bake for 12–16 minutes, until puffed, golden, and crisp.
  9. Cool slightly. Let the twists rest for 5 minutes on the tray. They’ll firm up as they cool. Serve warm.