There is nothing quite like the cozy charm and irresistible flavors of the Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe. This delightful treat perfectly balances the rich sharpness of cheddar and parmesan cheeses with the sweet, spiced warmth of apple butter and fresh thyme—all wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry. Whether you are looking for a sophisticated appetizer, a snack to impress friends, or a comforting bite any time of the day, these twists bring an unforgettable harmony of tastes and textures that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients, each playing an essential role in crafting that perfect combination of flavor and texture. From the buttery richness of puff pastry to the fresh zing of thyme, these ingredients come together to make magic in your kitchen.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This provides the bold, creamy, and tangy foundation that defines the cheese flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty contrast that deepens the savory profile.
- 1 (17.3-oz.) package puff pastry sheets, thawed: Creates the buttery, flaky exterior that makes these twists so irresistible.
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Used for brushing the pastry, it gives the twists a gorgeous golden-brown finish.
- 1/4 cup apple butter: Infuses the dish with a warm sweetness that beautifully complements the cheeses.
- 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme: Brings a subtle herbaceous note that elevates the overall flavor.
How to Make Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your twists will bake evenly without sticking, setting the stage for perfectly golden results.
Step 2: Mix Your Cheeses
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan. This blend of sharp and nutty cheeses is the flavor powerhouse for the twists, grounding the apple butter’s sweetness beautifully.
Step 3: Layer and Roll the Puff Pastry
Sprinkle a quarter cup of the cheese mixture evenly on your work surface. Place one sheet of thawed puff pastry over the cheese, then sprinkle another quarter cup on top. Using a rolling pin, gently press the cheese into the pastry and roll it out into a 10-by-14 inch rectangle. Repeat this technique with the second pastry sheet and the remaining cheese blend. This layering locks the cheese into the pastry, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers with Apple Butter and Thyme
Brush the surface of one puff pastry sheet with beaten egg to act like glue. Lay the other sheet on a prepared baking sheet and brush it with apple butter, leaving a one-inch border free around the edges. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese blend and fresh thyme evenly over the apple butter. Carefully top it with the egg-washed pastry sheet, pressing gently to seal the layers together. Chill this assembly in the fridge for 30 minutes or the freezer for 15. This step helps keep your twists firm and easy to handle during cutting and twisting.
Step 5: Cut and Twist
Move the chilled pastry to a cutting board and slice it into three-quarter-inch strips using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter. Arrange the strips on the baking sheets with at least an inch of space between them. Pinch the ends of each strip tightly and twist the ends in opposite directions to create spirals. If any twists begin to unravel, just gently press the ends back into the parchment paper. For best results, chill the twisted pastries once more for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes before baking. This chilling step helps maintain their beautiful shape while baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Brush each twist with extra beaten egg for a gorgeous glossy finish. Bake the twists in your preheated oven until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become crisp, around 20 to 25 minutes. The smell alone will make it hard to wait!
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow your Apple Butter Cheese Twists to cool slightly on a wire rack. These delightful treats are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature to fully appreciate their crisp, flaky texture and layered flavors.
How to Serve Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a touch of freshly chopped thyme or a little extra parmesan right before serving adds a fresh burst of flavor and an elegant finish. You can also dust a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the twists for a salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the apple butter’s sweetness.
Side Dishes
These cheese twists pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a heartier accompaniment, a warm bowl of butternut squash soup or apple-cinnamon chutney can turn these twists into a full celebration of cozy fall flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the twists in a basket lined with a colorful cloth napkin for a charming appetizer display. Alternatively, stack them in a tiered serving tray for a party or holiday gathering—this makes them easy to grab and looks incredibly inviting. Serving with small bowls of apple butter or honey mustard for dipping adds an interactive and delicious touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Apple Butter Cheese Twists, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the twists crisp without drying them out, ready for a quick snack later.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these twists ahead, freeze the unbaked twisted strips on a parchment-lined sheet until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes an effortless treat whenever you crave them!
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth and crispiness, reheat the twists in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the puff pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of cheddar and parmesan?
Absolutely! While cheddar and parmesan create a deliciously sharp and nutty flavor, you can experiment with gouda, fontina, or even pepper jack for a different twist. Just choose cheeses that melt well and complement the sweetness of apple butter.
Is it necessary to chill the pastry before twisting?
Yes, chilling the assembled pastry helps it firm up, making it easier to cut and twist without losing shape. It also helps keep the butter in the puff pastry cold, resulting in flakier twists after baking.
Can I make these twists vegan or dairy-free?
You can try using dairy-free cheese alternatives and a vegan puff pastry, but keep in mind the flavor profile and texture might be different. For the egg wash, substitute it with a plant-based milk or a mix of water and maple syrup for browning.
How long can I store the twists before baking?
Once assembled and chilled, the pastry can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or frozen for longer storage. Just make sure to bake them until golden and crisp when ready.
Can I add spices or herbs to change the flavor?
Definitely! Fresh thyme works beautifully, but you could also try rosemary, sage, or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the apple butter for a seasonal twist. Just adjust to your taste preference.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe is a joyful celebration of flavors that feels both comforting and elegant. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones on a chilly afternoon or impressing guests at any gathering. Once you try making these twists, their buttery layers, cheesy goodness, and sweet-spiced notes will become an instant favorite in your recipe collection—trust me, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Print
Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus chilling time (additional 1 hour for chilling and freezing combined)
- Yield: 16 – 20 twists
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Apple Butter Cheese Twists are a perfect blend of savory sharp cheddar, nutty parmesan, and sweet spiced apple butter, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Twisted to perfection, these golden-brown pastries make an ideal appetizer or snack that combines rich cheese flavors with a subtle hint of fresh thyme and apple sweetness.
Ingredients
Cheese Blend
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Pastry & Toppings
- 1 (17.3-oz.) package puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup apple butter
- 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to ensure even baking.
- Mix the cheese: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded sharp cheddar and grated parmesan cheeses to create a flavorful cheese blend.
- Incorporate cheese into puff pastry: On a clean work surface, sprinkle 1/4 cup of the cheese blend evenly. Place one thawed puff pastry sheet over this cheese layer, then sprinkle another 1/4 cup of cheese blend on top. Use a rolling pin to press the cheese firmly into the pastry, then roll the sheet out into a 10-by-14-inch rectangle. Repeat this process with the second pastry sheet and remaining cheese blend.
- Assemble the layered pastry: Brush the surface of one puff pastry sheet with the beaten egg to help layers stick. Place the other sheet on a prepared baking sheet and brush its surface with apple butter, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheese blend and chopped fresh thyme over the apple butter. Place the egg-washed puff pastry sheet on top, egg side down, gently pressing the layers together. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes to firm up the layers.
- Cut and twist the pastry strips: Transfer the chilled pastry to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into 3/4-inch wide strips. Arrange these strips on the prepared baking sheets, spaced at least 1 inch apart. Pinch the ends of each strip to seal and twist each end in opposite directions to create spiral shapes. If the twists begin to untwist, press the ends gently into the parchment paper to secure. Refrigerate the shaped twists for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes to retain their shape.
- Egg wash and bake: Brush the chilled twists with additional beaten egg to promote browning and a shiny finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Remove the twists from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry sheets are fully thawed before handling to prevent cracking.
- Chilling the assembled pastry before cutting helps maintain shape during baking.
- Use fresh thyme for the best flavor; dried thyme can be substituted but reduce quantity by half.
- Apple butter adds sweetness; adjust amount if a more or less sweet twist is preferred.
- Twists can be prepared ahead and frozen for convenient baking later.
