Add a little kick to your typical cheese appetizer.
Fans of cheese straws will love these homemade Spicy Cheese Twists.
They are remarkably easy to prepare and make a great cocktail party nibble.
Credit: Victor Protasio; Food Styling: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Styling: Audrey Davis
There’s nothing that these Spicy Cheese Twists can’t do.
Our Spicy Cheese Twists lean on frozenpuff pastryto deliver flaky, cheesy layers to thesesimple party bites.
Layered with thyme and aged Gouda cheese, these cheese twists are simultaneously crispy and tender.
The cheese forms little crispy bubbles and pockets of deliciousness on the pastry.
They get a kick from cayenne pepper and extra flavor from garlic powder.
Shaped into cute bow ties, these cheese twists are guaranteed to be the hit of the party.
Serve with cocktails and sparkling wine.
Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper, and set aside.
Mix together Gouda and thyme in a small bowl; set aside.
Roll 1 puff pastry sheet into a 14-inch square on a lightly floured work surface.
Thoroughly prick all over with a fork.
Whisk together egg and 1 tablespoon water in a small bowl.
Brush pastry lightly with egg mixture.
Sprinkle evenly with salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
Cut pastry in half lengthwise to form 2 (14- x 7-inch) rectangles.
Place remaining pastry sheet, egg wash side up, directly onto pastry sheet with cheese.
(Alternatively, gently roll a rolling pin over both sheets to bind cheese.)
Cut pastry stack lengthwise into 2 (14- x 312-inch) rectangles.
Cut each rectangle into 12 (about 312- x 1-inch) strips.
Arrange bow ties on prepared baking sheets, at least 12 inch apart.
Press ends down gently to adhere to parchment.
Pinch middle of each strip with fingers to create center of bow tie.
Cool on baking sheet at least 5 minutes.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
