These Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists are a tasty snack you can whip up in no time! With flaky pastry and cheesy goodness, they’re perfect for munching on at parties or movie nights.
You can easily separate them and serve with your favorite dip. I always end up eating more than I should—who can resist that cheesy flavor? 😉
Making these twists is super simple. Just twist the pastry, sprinkle with parmesan, bake, and enjoy the crunchy, cheesy result. They disappear fast, so make extra!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show! You can buy it frozen at the grocery store. If you don’t have puff pastry on hand, try using filo dough as a lighter option, but remember that it will be crispier and not as flaky.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty tang. If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, nutritional yeast works well, or you can use another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
Egg Wash: This helps the twists get that golden color. If you want a vegan option, you can brush with plant-based milk or a mix of water and olive oil for a nice finish.
Herbs: Thyme is lovely here, but you can switch it up with oregano, basil, or even a bit of rosemary. Just make sure they are dried or finely chopped fresh herbs for even flavor distribution.
How Do You Make Puff Pastry Twists Perfectly Flaky?
The key to nice, flaky twists is the way you handle the puff pastry. Here are some tips to ensure great results:
- Keep the dough cold. It should be thawed but still chilly, as warmth can make it lose its flakiness.
- Don’t overwork the pastry. Roll it out gently without excessive kneading to avoid tough twists.
- Make space between the twists on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, helping them puff up properly.
- Watch the baking time! Each oven is different. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly golden and flaky cheese twists that everyone will enjoy!
Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or finely minced garlic
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the twists don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a clean, lightly floured surface, unfold or gently roll out the thawed puff pastry. You want it nice and smooth, but don’t overwork it. Just a quick flattening will do!
3. Create the Cheese Layer:
Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, spread the beaten egg evenly over the entire surface of the pastry. This helps give your twists a beautiful, shiny finish.
4. Add the Flavors:
Now sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese all over the pastry. Follow this with the thyme leaves, and if you’re using it, a light sprinkle of garlic powder. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and a few turns of black pepper for extra flavor!
5. Cut the Pastry:
Take a sharp knife or pizza cutter and cut the pastry into strips that are about 1/2 to 3/4 inch wide. The more strips, the more delicious twists!
6. Twist It Up:
Pick up each strip and gently twist it a few times to create a lovely spiral shape. Be careful not to stretch it too much—you want to maintain all that fluffy, flaky goodness!
7. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the twisted strips on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave about an inch of space between each one. They’ll puff up a bit while baking!
8. Brush for a Glossy Finish:
Brush the tops of the twists lightly with some of the leftover beaten egg. This is what will make them turn that gorgeous golden color while baking.
9. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want them to be puffed up and beautifully golden brown.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes on a wire rack. Warm or at room temperature, these twists are perfect for nibbling!
11. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists as a delightful snack or appetizer. They’re sure to be a hit with friends and family!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists perfect for sharing!
Can I Use a Different Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is classic, you can substitute with cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option. Just ensure it’s a cheese that melts well for the best flavor.
How Can I Store Leftover Twists?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge, where they’ll last about 4 days. Reheat in the oven to bring back their crunch!
Can I Make These Twists Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the twists, place them on the baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.
What Dips Pair Well with Puff Pastry Twists?
These twists are fantastic on their own, but they pair wonderfully with dips like marinara sauce, creamy garlic dip, or even a tangy pesto. Feel free to get creative!