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Crispy Puff Pastry Cheese Straws

crispy puff pastry cheese straws - featured image

Golden, flaky puff pastry twisted with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic powder, baked to a perfect savory snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 sheet puff pastry (about 8 oz/225 g), thawed but still cold
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: sesame seeds or poppy seeds for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangle about 12×9 inches (30×23 cm), keeping it around 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly grated sharp cheddar, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  4. Evenly scatter the cheese and spice blend over the puff pastry sheet, pressing lightly to help it stick.
  5. Lightly brush the beaten egg over the cheese-covered puff pastry to seal the cheese and give a golden color when baked.
  6. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the sheet into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) wide strips, about 18-20 strips total.
  7. Hold each end of a strip and gently twist it a couple of times. Place the twisted straws on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
  8. Optionally, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  10. Transfer the cheese straws to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving, allowing them to crisp up.

Notes

Keep puff pastry cold until ready to use to ensure flakiness. Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor. Chill dough if too soft before cutting. Avoid twisting strips too tightly to prevent tearing. Watch baking time closely to prevent burning. Store leftovers in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in oven to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: puff pastry, cheese straws, cheddar, Parmesan, savory snack, appetizer, easy recipe, crispy, baked snack