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
Scale
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.
