Description
Crispy, golden puff pastry twists layered with melted cheese and herbs — a quick and crowd-pleasing party snack that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Cheese & Seasonings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika or cayenne (optional)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten (for wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the cheese straws.
- Prepare Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface or parchment paper to smooth it and make it easier to work with.
- Apply Egg Wash: Using a pastry brush, evenly brush the beaten egg over the entire surface of the pastry. This will help the cheese and seasonings stick and give the straws a nice golden color.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese evenly over the egg-washed pastry, then evenly dust with garlic powder and, if using, paprika or cayenne for a mild spicy kick.
- Fold and Cut: Carefully fold the pastry sheet in half over the cheese and seasonings to enclose them. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded pastry into ½-inch wide strips.
- Twist Strips: Take each strip and twist it several times to form a spiral. This twisting helps create the signature cheese straw shape and texture.
- Bake: Place the twisted strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the straws are puffed up and a beautiful golden brown with melted cheese visible.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the cheese straws to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious party snack.
Notes
- Try different cheeses like Gruyère or Asiago for unique flavors.
- Store cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain crispness.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary before folding the pastry.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
