Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists are flaky and delicious snacks that are super easy to make! With just puff pastry and yummy Parmesan cheese, they’re a treat for any gathering.
You’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together! I love serving them warm—perfect for munching with friends while watching a movie. Everyone can’t resist these tasty bites! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star ingredient. Use high-quality puff pastry for best results. If you’re short on time, you can also make it from scratch, but ready-made is perfectly fine. Gluten-free pastry is an option too if you’re avoiding gluten.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds amazing flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or a hard cheese like Grana Padano can work as substitutes. You can use pre-grated cheese, but fresh grating gives better results!
Dried Thyme: This herb brings a nice earthy flavor. You can swap it with other dried herbs like oregano, rosemary, or even Italian seasoning. Fresh thyme can be used as well—just chop it finely.
Egg Wash: The beaten egg gives a lovely golden color. If you’re vegan or allergic, use a mixture of plant milk and a bit of cornstarch instead.
How Do You Achieve Perfect Twists?
The twisting technique is very important for an appealing look and texture. Here’s how to get it right:
- Ensure your puff pastry is well-thawed but still cold for easy handling.
- Cut the pastry into even strips using a sharp knife for clean edges.
- Gently twist each strip several times. Don’t pull too hard; they need to stay intact.
- Space the twists well on the baking sheet. They puff up as they bake and need room!
Keep an eye on them while baking; they can go from golden to burnt quickly! Enjoy these delicious cheezy bites!
Puff Pastry Parmesan Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: a pinch of salt and black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick appetizer or party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep your twists from sticking.
2. Roll Out the Pastry:
On a clean, lightly floured surface, take your thawed puff pastry sheet and roll it out gently to smooth out any folds. This will ensure even baking.
3. Apply the Egg Wash:
Using a pastry brush, lightly and evenly coat the surface of the puff pastry with the beaten egg. This helps to give your twists a beautiful golden color when baked.
4. Add the Cheese and Seasoning:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the puff pastry. Next, add the thyme leaves and garlic powder, distributing them as evenly as possible. For extra flavor, feel free to add a pinch of salt and black pepper.
5. Cut and Twist:
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into strips about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch wide. Now, take each strip and gently twist it several times. Don’t pull too hard; just enough to create the twist effect without tearing the pastry.
6. Arrange and Bake:
Place the twisted strips on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them out a little so they don’t stick together while baking. Brush them with any remaining egg wash to enhance browning.
7. Bake and Enjoy:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and puffed up. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious twists warm or at room temperature!
Can I Use Store-Bought Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is a convenient option and works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s thawed before using for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their crispiness!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the twists in advance and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just remember to brush them with egg wash right before they go in the oven for the best results!