Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl

This Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl is a sophisticated and delightful appetizer or snack that’s perfect for entertaining or enjoying with a glass of wine. The rich blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and fragrant thyme come together in a flaky, golden pastry that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
  • 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare Puff Pastry:

  1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle.

Add Filling:

  1. Evenly sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese, chopped walnuts, and thyme leaves over the puff pastry.
  2. Season with a little salt and pepper.
  3. Gently press the filling into the pastry.

Roll and Cut:

  1. Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log or cylinder.
  2. Slice the roll into approximately 1-inch thick pieces.

Arrange on Baking Sheet:

  1. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a spiral or slightly overlapping pattern to create a pull-apart effect.

Apply Egg Wash:

  1. Brush the tops of the pastry twirls with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.

Bake:

  1. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve:

  1. Let the pull-apart pastry cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

10 FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Yes, you can substitute blue cheese with other cheeses like goat cheese or cheddar, but the flavor will vary.
  2. Can I make this ahead of time?
    You can prepare the pastry twirls in advance and freeze them. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  3. Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
    Yes, store-bought puff pastry is perfect for this recipe. Just ensure it’s thawed before use.
  4. Can I add other herbs?
    Yes, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage for different flavor profiles.
  5. How should I store leftovers?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
  6. Can I make these without nuts?
    Yes, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds if you have nut allergies.
  7. Can I use a different type of nut?
    Yes, almonds or pecans would also work well as substitutes for walnuts.
  8. Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
    Yes, dried thyme can be used, but use about half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
  9. Can I prepare the filling in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  10. What can I serve these with?
    These puff pastry twirls are great on their own or served with a side of chutney or a simple salad.

Conclusion

Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirls are a delicious and elegant choice for any occasion. Their flaky texture and rich, savory filling make them a perfect addition to your appetizer repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat!

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