Cheese twists are a tasty combination of flaky puff pastry, garlic butter, and three types of cheese, baked to golden perfection! Quick, easy, and irresistible.
If there's one thing I can guarantee about these Cheese Twists, it's that they're going to disappear faster than you can say "cheese lover's dream."
Think layers of puff pastry, a trio of cheeses, and a touch of garlic, all twisted into golden perfection. Forget about store-bought snacks; you've got everything you need for a crowd-pleasing treat right here. Plus, it's SO EASY!
Whether you're gearing up for a movie night, need a quick party appetizer, or just want to treat yourself to a snack that hits all the right notes, these cheese twists have got your back.
Brace yourself for a burst of cheesy flavor, a hint of garlic, and a crunch that's downright addictive.
These twists are not just a snack; they're a celebration of simplicity and flavor.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cheese twists come together in a snap, making them the ultimate last-minute snack or appetizer.
- Impressive Yet Simple: Despite their gourmet appearance, you don't need a culinary degree to whip up these twists. They look and taste fancy without the fuss.
- Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you're hosting a party or just relaxing at home, these twists cater to all occasions, earning you the title of snack champion.
- Customizable: Experiment with different cheese combinations or add your favorite herbs and spices for a personalized twist.
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters won't be able to resist the allure of cheesy, flaky goodness. It's a win-win for parents and kids alike.
Ingredients
You only need simple pantry ingredients for this recipe!
- Puff Pastry: The hero of this recipe, puff pastry delivers the flaky layers that make these twists irresistible. If you can't find it at the store, you can make your own, but store-bought works just fine.
- Butter: Melted butter is the vehicle for infusing the twists with garlicky goodness. Unsalted butter is preferable, but if you only have salted on hand, adjust the overall salt content accordingly.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates the butter, adding a savory kick to each bite. If you're in a hurry, garlic powder can be a decent substitute.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and tangy, cheddar brings a robust flavor to the mix. Feel free to experiment with different cheddar varieties for a unique twist.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Known for its gooey meltiness, mozzarella contributes to the satisfying cheesy pull you'll experience with every bite.
- Parmesan Cheese: The secret weapon for an extra umami punch. If you're out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can step in.
- Egg: Beaten and brushed on top of the twists, the egg provides that coveted golden finish.
See the recipe card for quantities and method.
How to make Cheese Twists
Follow these step-by-step instructions, then scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.
Preheat the oven to 350°F / 175°C. Line a baking sheet with baking paper.
Allow the pastry to thaw, then unroll (if pre-rolled) or roll out on baking paper.
Melt the butter, then stir in the garlic and let it sit for a few minutes to infuse the garlic butter.
Spread the garlic butter over a pastry sheet.
Sprinkle evenly with the three types of cheese.
Add the second sheet of pastry on top and press down gently.
Cut strips about 1" wide along the shorter size.
Twist each strip, then place onto the baking sheet.
Brush the cheese twists with the lightly beaten egg.
Bake for 15 minutes or until golden.
Allow to cool on a wire rack.
Scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese straws are great on their own, but you can also serve them with dipping sauces! Try these:
- Arby's Horsey Sauce (Copycat)
- Horseradish Aioli
- Bacon Aioli
- Taco Bell Chipotle Sauce
- Homemade Donair Sauce
- Marinara Sauce
Variations
- Herb Infusion: Add a teaspoon of dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the melted butter for an herby twist.
- Spice it Up: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika over the cheese before folding for a subtle kick.
- Sweet and Savory: For a unique twist, add a thin layer of fruit preserves or honey on the pastry before sprinkling the cheese.
- Bacon Bliss: Crumble crispy bacon over the cheese for a smoky, savory upgrade.
Storage
While these cheese twists are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To regain that crispy texture, a quick reheating in the oven, air fryer, or toaster oven does the trick.
More Snack Recipes
- BLT Bites Appetizer
- Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Crispy Battered Fried Wings
- Honey Sriracha Wings
- Meat and Cheese Tray
Recipe Tips
- Keep it Cold: Work with the puff pastry while it's still cold for easier handling and better puffing during baking.
- Even Spread: Ensure an even layer of cheese and butter on the pastry to guarantee a consistent flavor in every twist.
- Twist, Don't Shout: When twisting the strips, do it gently to prevent the pastry from tearing. A light touch goes a long way.
- Customize with Confidence: Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheese combinations, herbs, or even a sweet variation. Half the fun is finding your perfect twist.
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📖 Recipe
Cheese Twists
Equipment
- Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 2 sheets 17.3-oz. puff pastry, thawed but still cold, if frozen
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
- 1 egg lightly beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F / 175°C. Line a baking sheet with baking paper.
- Allow the pastry to thaw, then unroll on baking paper.
- Melt the butter, then stir in the garlic and let it sit for a few minutes to infuse the garlic butter.
- Spread the garlic butter over one pastry sheet.
- Sprinkle evenly with the three types of cheese.
- Add the second sheet of pastry on top and press down gently.
- Cut strips about 1" wide along the shorter size. Twist each strip, then place onto the baking sheet. Brush the cheese twists with the lightly beaten egg.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden.
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors, so is not guaranteed to be accurate. Please see a registered dietician for special diet advice.
Lauren Harris
These cheese twists were fun to make and tasted great. My garlic-loving family really loved the addition of garlic with the cheese - yum!
TAYLER ROSS
I made these cheese twists for NYE and they were so fun and easy. Not to mention delicious- and everyone loved them!
Tavo
Your garlic cheese twists was a tasty treat! The combination of flaky puff pastry with the rich flavors of garlic butter and a trio of cheeses is simply irresistible.
greta
I made these yesterday evening for friends and we all loved them so much. Totally worth making them.
Beth
Turned out really good. Added Italian herbs.