Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists are flaky, cheesy delights that are perfect for snacking. With just a few ingredients, you can make these fun and tasty treats in no time!
They’re so easy to whip up, I like to surprise guests with them at parties. Plus, who can resist that golden, cheesy finish? It’s a snack that always gets smiles! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show! Make sure to use thawed puff pastry for best results. You can often find it in the frozen food section. If you’re gluten-free, check for gluten-free puff pastry options available at specialty stores.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor. You could substitute with pecorino romano for a stronger taste, or use a pre-grated cheese if that’s all you have—it might not melt as smoothly though.
Egg Wash: The egg wash gives the twists a beautiful golden color. If you’re avoiding eggs, brush with milk or a non-dairy milk instead, which will also help with browning.
Seasonings: I love adding garlic powder and dried Italian herbs for extra flavor. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or leave them out if you prefer a simpler taste.
How Do You Get the Perfect Twist?
Twisting the pastry strips is key to achieving those lovely spirals! Here’s how to do it right:
- After cutting your puff pastry into strips, twist each strip gently but firmly from the ends. Don’t be too aggressive, or you might tear the pastry.
- Keep the twists evenly spaced on the baking sheet. This allows each piece to puff up nicely without sticking together during baking.
- Remember to brush the tops with egg wash for a lovely golden finish, and sprinkle salt for added flavor.
With just a little care, you’ll have beautiful, crispy Parmesan twists that everyone will love!
Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano or basil, optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sea salt or flaky salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 12-15 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying these cheesy twists in about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the twists from sticking. This will make cleanup easier, too!
2. Rolling Out the Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle that’s about 10 by 12 inches. You want it to be nice and flat, so it bakes evenly.
3. Adding the Egg Wash:
Take the beaten egg and brush it over the entire surface of the pastry. This egg wash helps the cheese stick to the pastry and gives it a beautiful golden color when baked.
4. Sprinkling the Cheese and Seasoning:
Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over your egg-washed pastry. If you’re using garlic powder and dried herbs, add those now along with some freshly ground black pepper. This adds amazing flavor!
5. Cutting and Twisting:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into strips, about 1 inch wide. Take each strip and gently twist it several times to create a fun spiral shape. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll still taste great!
6. Arranging on the Baking Sheet:
Carefully place the twisted pastry strips on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each twist so they can puff up nicely without sticking together.
7. Final Touches:
Lightly brush the tops of the twists with any remaining egg wash and then sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each piece. This step is essential for that added deliciousness!
8. Baking:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want them to be beautifully puffed, golden brown, and crispy!
9. Cooling and Serving:
Once done, remove the twists from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are delightful warm or at room temperature!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, flaky twists as a perfect appetizer or snack! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Store-Bought Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Most grocery stores carry frozen puff pastry sheets, which are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight or on the counter for about 30 minutes before using.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use grated pecorino romano for a sharper flavor, or even shredded mozzarella for a gooier twist. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Twists?
Store any leftover puff pastry twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To re-crisp them, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes so they regain their flakiness!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the twists and shape them ahead of time! Arrange them on the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few more minutes to the baking time.