These Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists are a fun and tasty snack! With flaky, buttery layers of pastry rolled with cheesy goodness, they really tickle your taste buds.
Making these twists is super easy—just twist, bake, and enjoy! They make a perfect party appetizer, or just a treat for yourself because who can resist cheese? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the dish! Use store-bought puff pastry for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own, but it does take more time. Keep it well-thawed for smooth rolling!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings the best flavor. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even use a vegan cheese option for a dairy-free version.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the salt level in the recipe. You can swap it with olive oil for a twist or use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Dried Italian Herbs: This mix adds great flavor. If you don’t have Italian herbs, a blend of dried oregano and basil works well. Fresh herbs can also be used if you have them on hand.
How Do You Get the Perfect Twist?
Twisting the strips is key to creating those delightful shapes. Here’s how to do it right:
- After cutting the pastry into strips, it’s essential to handle them carefully to prevent tearing.
- Hold one end of the strip and gently twist it while holding the other end in place. This creates a nice spiral shape.
- Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect—each twist has its own charm!
- Place them a bit apart on the baking sheet, as they will puff up during baking.
Make sure your oven is hot enough to ensure they get crispy. Enjoy these cheesy, flaky treats! They’re perfect for sharing at a gathering or just enjoying as a snack at home.
Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing these delicious Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists will take about 20 minutes, including prep and baking time. They bake up quickly, making them a perfect last-minute snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the twists from sticking.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangle, aiming for about 12 x 9 inches. You want it even so it cooks nicely!
3. Butter and Season:
Using a brush, evenly spread the melted butter over the surface of the puff pastry. This will help the cheese adhere and give it that lovely golden color. Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese all over, followed by the dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, and a dash of fresh black pepper.
4. Cut Into Strips:
Take a sharp knife or pizza cutter and slice the puff pastry into strips about 1/2 to 3/4 inch wide. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll still taste amazing!
5. Twist the Strips:
Now the fun part—take each strip and gently twist it a few times. Be careful not to stretch it too much, then place each twisted piece on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake the Twists:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Watch closely—you’re looking for a beautiful golden brown color and a puffed, flaky texture!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. If you’d like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and extra flavor before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these tasty Parmesan twists warm or let them cool to room temperature. They’re fantastic on their own or accompanied by your favorite dip. Enjoy your delightful snack!
These Parmesan twists are crispy, flaky, cheesy, and a hit for any occasion! Perfect for dipping or savoring just as they are!
Can I Use Store-Bought Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is convenient and works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before rolling it out!
What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
While Parmesan is delicious, you can substitute it with Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, or even cheddar for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount based on the saltiness of the cheese!
Can I Make These Twists in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the twists ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Bake them fresh right before serving for that crispy texture, but they can also be made a few hours earlier and warmed up in the oven!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To revive their crispiness, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes!