These Bacon & Cheese Puff Pastry Twists are the ultimate savory snack—crispy, flaky pastry wrapped around smoky bacon and gooey cheese, with an optional sprinkle of herbs for extra aroma. Perfect for brunch, party appetizers, or a quick indulgent treat, they require just five ingredients and minimal assembly. Inspired by classic cheese straws and British “twists,” this recipe elevates store-bought puff pastry into golden, twisting delights that will disappear in seconds.
Bacon & Cheese Puff Pastry Twists transform everyday ingredients into elegant, flaky snacks. Golden layers of buttery puff pastry cradle smoky bacon and melty cheese, finished with optional herbs for an extra flavor boost. Perfect for brunch spreads, cocktail parties, or a weekend treat, these twists require minimal prep and bake in under 20 minutes—guaranteeing rave reviews from kids and adults alike.
Cooking Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Baking: 12–15 minutes at 200 °C (390 °F)
- Total Time: ≈30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 250 g)
- 6–8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, parsley, or Italian seasoning)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
- Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 200 °C (390 °F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Roll Out Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface. Unfold the thawed puff pastry into a 25×25 cm (10×10 in) square. - Add Fillings
Evenly sprinkle the crumbled bacon over half the pastry. Top with shredded cheese, and—if using—sprinkle dried herbs. Fold the other half of the pastry sheet over the toppings, gently pressing edges to seal. - Cut & Twist
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded pastry into 1.5 cm–wide strips. Holding each strip at both ends, twist 3–4 times and place on the baking sheet, leaving space between twists. - Egg Wash & Bake
Brush each twist with beaten egg for glossy coloration. Bake 12–15 minutes, rotating the tray halfway, until puffed and golden brown. - Cool & Serve
Transfer twists to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
(Per twist; yields 16 twists)
- Calories: 155 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbs: 11 g
- – Fiber: 0.5 g
- – Sugars: 0.2 g
- Fat: 10 g
- – Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Cheese straws and twists trace back to British tea-time fare and Southern U.S. hospitality traditions. They’re beloved for their simplicity and crowd-pleasing crunch. Puff pastry variants capitalize on the dough’s flakiness, making these twists a modern twist on a classic. Puff pastry twists draw on French pastry techniques and Southern U.S. cheese straw traditions. Their visual appeal and ease of customization have made them a staple on party tables and social media food feeds worldwide.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Quick Assembly: From fridge to oven in 15 minutes.
- Minimal Ingredients: Five pantry staples create maximum flavor.
- Versatile: Swap bacon for prosciutto or cheese for your favorite blend.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare twists and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
Health Benefits
- Protein: Bacon and cheese supply high-quality protein.
- Portion Control: Individual twists help manage serving size.
- Customizable Fats: Use turkey bacon or part-skim cheese to lighten.
Serving Suggestions
- Dips: Serve with ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy mustard.
- Sides: Pair with soup (tomato bisque) or a crisp green salad.
- Beverages: Complement with sparkling wine, pale ale, or iced tea.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cold Pastry: Ensure pastry is cold for best rise—avoid overhandling.
- Overfilling: Keep toppings moderate to prevent leaks.
- Uneven Strips: Cut uniform strips for consistent baking.
Pairing Recommendations
- Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or slightly sweet Riesling.
- Beer: Light lager or Belgian witbier.
- Non-Alc: Sparkling apple cider or herbal iced tea.
Cooking Tips
- Sharp Cutter: A pizza wheel yields clean edges for crisp twists.
- Chill After Cutting: Rest twists 5 minutes in fridge to hold shape.
- Egg Wash: Brush thoroughly for an even golden sheen.
Similar Recipes to Try
- Parmesan & Black Pepper Straws
- Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry Bites
- Prosciutto & Gruyère Palmiers
Variations to Try
- Spicy: Add chili flakes to cheese layer.
- Herbed: Mix fresh rosemary or thyme into egg wash.
- Sweet & Savory: Sprinkle a touch of brown sugar over cheese before twisting.
Ingredient Spotlight
Puff Pastry: Its laminated layers create steam pockets during baking, delivering signature flakiness with every bite.
Conclusion
These Bacon & Cheese Puff Pastry Twists are an effortless way to elevate simple ingredients into a crispy, cheesy delight. With minimal prep and versatile flavors, they’re destined to become a go-to appetizer or snack for any occasion. Bacon & Cheese Puff Pastry Twists transform everyday ingredients into elegant, flaky snacks. Golden layers of buttery puff pastry cradle smoky bacon and melty cheese, finished with optional herbs for an extra flavor boost. Perfect for brunch spreads, cocktail parties, or a weekend treat, these twists require minimal prep and bake in under 20 minutes—guaranteeing rave reviews from kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving an indulgent snack, these Bacon & Cheese Puff Pastry Twists deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Flaky, savory, and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become your go-to recipe for effortless entertaining.
FAQ
- Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Yes—ensure dough is well chilled before use. - How far in advance can I prepare?
Assemble twists and refrigerate up to 4 hours before baking. - Can I freeze unbaked twists?
Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag; bake from frozen with an extra 2–3 minutes. - What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda all melt beautifully. - How do I prevent sogginess?
Pat bacon dry and drain any grease before layering. - Can I make sweet twists?
Swap cheese for cinnamon sugar and omit bacon for dessert versions. - Why rest after cutting?
Chilling prevents twists from losing shape and ensures even puff. - What if the pastry melts too fast?
Work quickly on a cool surface; chill strips briefly before baking. - Is there a vegan option?
Use vegan puff pastry, dairy-free cheese, and omit egg wash or use non-dairy milk wash. - How to reheat leftovers?
Warm in a 180 °C oven 5 minutes to restore crispness.