Description
This Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl is a savory, elegant appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with tangy blue cheese, crunchy toasted walnuts, and fragrant fresh thyme. Twisted into a beautiful braided spiral and baked to golden perfection, this treat is perfect for entertaining or as a unique addition to a cheese board. The optional honey drizzle adds a subtle touch of sweetness to balance the bold flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Finish
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry into a 10-inch square, or keep its original shape if pre-rolled.
- Add Fillings: Evenly sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the surface of the pastry. Scatter the toasted chopped walnuts and fresh thyme leaves on top, then gently press the toppings into the dough using your hands or a rolling pin to help them adhere.
- Roll and Slice: Roll the pastry tightly into a log shape. Then, use a sharp knife to slice the log lengthwise down the center, creating two long strips of pastry.
- Twist and Shape: Twist the two strips together with the cut sides facing up to create a braided shape. Coil this twisted braid into a spiral or twirl, and place it carefully on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush and Bake: Brush the top of the pastry twirl with the beaten egg to give it a golden shine. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the twirl to cool for 5 minutes on a wire rack. Drizzle with honey if desired for a touch of sweetness. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or sprinkle sea salt over the filling before baking.
- This recipe works well as a savory appetizer or a unique addition to a cheese board.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
