If you are craving a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and flaky, look no further than this Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe. These golden, crispy twists marry the sharpness of cheddar and parmesan with the sweet, fruity warmth of apple butter and a hint of fresh thyme, creating a snack or appetizer that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for sharing, these twists bring a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making every bite utterly addictive and leaving your guests eager for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these twists lies in a few simple yet essential ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance that makes this Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe a winner every time.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a bold, tangy flavor that stands out with each bite.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that complements the cheddar perfectly.
- 1 (17.3-oz.) package puff pastry sheets, thawed: Provides the flaky, buttery base essential for those irresistible twists.
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Used as a shiny glaze that helps seal the pastry and give them a golden finish.
- 1/4 cup apple butter: Infuses the twists with its sweet, spiced fruitiness, balancing the cheeses.
- 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme: Adds an herbal note that elevates the flavor profile beautifully and adds freshness.
How to Make Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step is essential to ensure your twists cook evenly and don’t stick, helping you achieve that perfect crispness.
Step 2: Combine the Cheeses
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded sharp cheddar and grated parmesan cheeses. This blend is what gives the twists a rich, layered flavor with just the right amount of salty bite.
Step 3: Layer the Puff Pastry and Cheese
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the cheese blend onto a clean work surface, then place one puff pastry sheet on top. Scatter another 1/4 cup of cheese over the pastry sheet. Use a rolling pin to gently press the cheese into the dough, and roll it into a 10-by-14-inch rectangle. Repeat this process with the second puff pastry sheet and the remaining cheese. This creates the cheesy, flaky layers that are the star of the dish.
Step 4: Assemble the Pastry Layers
Brush the surface of one pastry sheet with the beaten egg, then place the other sheet on one of your prepared baking sheets. Spread the apple butter over this bottom sheet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the remaining cheese blend and chopped fresh thyme evenly on top. Gently place the egg-washed pastry sheet on top, pressing the layers together. Chill the assembled pastry in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape when cut.
Step 5: Cut and Twist the Pastry Strips
After chilling, transfer the pastry sheet to a cutting board. Cut it into 3/4-inch-wide strips with a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Place the strips on the baking sheets about an inch apart. Pinch each strip’s ends closed, then twist each end in opposite directions to create a beautiful spiral. If any twists try to unwind, gently press the ends into the parchment paper. Chill the twists again for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes to maintain their shape during baking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the chilled twists with the remaining beaten egg for a glossy finish, then bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re golden brown and irresistibly crisp. The egg wash helps achieve that gorgeous color and adds a subtle shine that hints at the wonderful pastry inside.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let your Apple Butter Cheese Twists cool on a wire rack just a little before serving. They’re wonderful warm, with that just-out-of-the-oven flakiness, or at room temperature when their flavors have melded even more deeply together.
How to Serve Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped thyme or a light dusting of flaky sea salt can add an extra touch of elegance and flavor to your twists. These small garnishes elevate the presentation and enhance each bite with a hint of herbal aroma or subtle saltiness.
Side Dishes
Serve these twists alongside a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette or pair them with a bowl of warm butternut squash soup for a cozy, seasonal meal. They also work beautifully as part of a cheese and charcuterie board, bringing savory and sweet contrast to cured meats and fresh fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the twists in a circular pattern on a large platter for an inviting appetizer display. You can also serve them in a basket lined with a colorful napkin for casual gatherings or slice them smaller to create bite-sized snacks perfect for cocktail parties or afternoon tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Apple Butter Cheese Twists keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain the best texture, consider reheating them briefly before serving to restore their crispness.
Freezing
You can freeze the twists before baking by following the chilling steps, then placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, place the twists on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 8 minutes until they’re warmed through and crisp again. Reheating in a toaster oven also works well for smaller batches.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and parmesan create a wonderful flavor combination, feel free to experiment with gouda, gruyere, or even a spicy pepper jack to add your own twist.
Is it okay to use store-bought apple butter?
Yes, store-bought apple butter works perfectly and saves time. Just choose one with good-quality ingredients and no added preservatives or artificial flavors for the best taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe relies on puff pastry, which is typically made with wheat flour. To make it gluten-free, look for a gluten-free puff pastry alternative, but keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
Do I need to chill the pastry multiple times?
Chilling helps the dough and cheese set, so the twists keep their shape when baking. Though it adds some time, this step is key to achieving those perfect, defined twists.
Can I prepare these twists ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can assemble the twists and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to bake. Just bake them fresh right before serving to enjoy their crispest texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a snack that’s both show-stopping and surprisingly simple, the Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe should be your next kitchen adventure. With vibrant layers of flavor wrapped in flaky pastry, these twists are sure to become a beloved treat at your gatherings or a special indulgence for yourself. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite twist on cozy comfort food.
Print
Apple Butter Cheese Twists Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16-20 twists
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Apple Butter Cheese Twists are flaky, cheesy puff pastry twists flavored with sharp cheddar, parmesan, apple butter, and fresh thyme. Perfect as a savory snack or appetizer, they combine the richness of cheese with the subtle sweetness of apple butter and the aromatic hint of thyme. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these twists deliver a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Cheese Blend
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Puff Pastry & Coating
- 1 (17.3-oz.) package puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Fillings & Flavorings
- 1/4 cup apple butter
- 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the twists bake evenly and do not stick.
- Combine cheeses: In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded sharp cheddar and grated parmesan cheeses until well blended.
- Prepare puff pastry sheets with cheese: On a clean surface, sprinkle 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture. Place one puff pastry sheet over the cheese and sprinkle with another 1/4 cup cheese blend on top. Using a rolling pin, press the cheese into the pastry and roll it out to a 10-by-14-inch rectangle. Repeat this process with the second puff pastry sheet and remaining cheese mixture.
- Assemble the layered pastry: Brush one puff pastry sheet’s surface with the beaten egg. Place the other sheet on one of the prepared baking sheets. Brush its surface with apple butter while leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle with remaining cheese blend and chopped fresh thyme. Top with the egg-washed pastry sheet, egg side down, then gently press layers together. Chill the assembled pastry in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Cut and twist the pastry strips: Transfer the chilled pastry to a cutting board and cut it into 3/4-inch wide strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Arrange the strips on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 1 inch apart. Pinch the ends of each strip to seal, then twist each end in opposite directions to create spirals. Press the ends into the parchment paper if they start to untwist. Refrigerate the twists for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes to help maintain shape.
- Brush and bake: Brush the chilled twists with additional beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Let the twists cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve them warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the fresh thyme with dried thyme if fresh is not available, but reduce the quantity to 1 tsp as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cheeses with dairy-free alternatives and use a suitable egg wash substitute like almond milk glaze.
- These twists can be made ahead and frozen before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time when cooking from frozen.
- Use a sharp pizza cutter or knife to ensure clean cuts and even strips that twist easily without tearing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven for best results.
