Description
These Puff Pastry Cheese Straws are a deliciously crispy and cheesy snack perfect for parties or a tasty nibble any time. Made from flaky puff pastry and a flavorful mix of aged cheddar and Parmesan, with a hint of cayenne for subtle heat, these cheese straws are easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 (14-ounce) package puff pastry or homemade rough puff pastry
- All-purpose flour, for dusting the work surface
Filling
- ¾ cup (85 grams) finely shredded aged cheddar and Parmesan cheese (mixed)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of spice)
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon water or cream
Instructions
- Prepare the workspace: Lightly dust your work surface with all-purpose flour to prevent the puff pastry from sticking. Thaw the puff pastry according to package directions if using store-bought.
- Roll and sprinkle cheese: Unfold or roll out the puff pastry sheet gently to smooth creases. Evenly sprinkle the mixed shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the surface. If you want a hint of spice, sprinkle the cayenne pepper evenly over the cheese.
- Fold and press: Fold the puff pastry sheet in half over the cheese, gently pressing down to seal the layers together and help the cheese adhere between them.
- Roll and cut: Using a rolling pin, lightly roll over the folded pastry to help embed the cheese into the dough. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into ½-inch-wide strips.
- Twist the strips: Take each strip and twist it several times to create the characteristic cheese straw shape. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart to allow room for puffing.
- Apply egg wash: Beat the egg with water or cream to make an egg wash. Brush each twisted strip lightly with the egg wash to give a shiny golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the cheese straws in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature as a snack or appetizer.
Notes
- For best results, keep the puff pastry cold to ensure maximum puffiness when baking.
- You can substitute cheeses depending on preference, but using a mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan gives a nice balance of flavor and melt.
- If you want less spice, omit the cayenne pepper entirely.
- Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; they are best enjoyed fresh.
