Blue Cheese Walnut Puff Twirl

This blue cheese walnut thyme puff pastry twirl is the perfect appetizer for your next gathering, combining rich flavors and elegant presentation in a deceptively simple recipe. The spiral design creates a stunning visual effect that belies how easy these are to prepare.

I first served these at an impromptu wine night with friends, and they disappeared within minutes. The combination of tangy blue cheese and sweet honey created such perfect balance that even my blue cheese-skeptical husband reached for seconds.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry sheets: choose all butter varieties for the best flavor and flakiest texture
• Honey: adds a subtle sweetness that balances the pungent blue cheese
• Blue cheese: crumbled finely works best for even distribution and melting
• Parmesan cheese: provides a salty umami backbone to complement the blue cheese
• Walnuts: toast them lightly beforehand for enhanced nutty flavor
• Fresh thyme leaves: strip from stems just before using for brightest flavor
• Milk: creates that golden brown crust when brushed on before baking
• Sea salt and cracked pepper: use flaky sea salt for a better texture contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 180C or 350F for fan forced ovens. For conventional ovens, increase to 200C or 390F. Allow at least 10 minutes for proper preheating to ensure even cooking and proper puff pastry rise.

Prepare the Base:

Lay out your puff pastry sheets on a clean work surface. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of honey over each sheet, spreading it evenly but leaving a small border around the edges. The thin layer of honey creates a wonderful caramelization when baked.

Add the Filling:

Divide your blue cheese, Parmesan, walnuts, and thyme leaves between both sheets. Distribute the ingredients evenly across the entire surface, pressing them gently into the honey to help them adhere. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to enhance all the flavors.

Create the Rolls:

Starting from one edge, tightly roll each pastry sheet into a log shape. Work slowly to maintain an even roll. Once rolled, cut each log lengthwise down the middle with a sharp knife to expose the beautiful layers inside.

Form the Twirls:

Carefully twist each cut piece, turning the exposed filling side up. Shape each twisted piece into a spiral, tucking the end underneath to secure. Place each spiral on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them.

Bake to Perfection:

Brush the exposed surfaces with milk to promote browning. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the pastry has risen and turned a deep golden brown. The cheese should be bubbling and the exposed edges slightly caramelized.

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The blue cheese is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered that using a milder blue cheese like Gorgonzola Dolce makes these more approachable for those who think they dislike blue cheese. My mother in law, a lifelong blue cheese avoider, actually asked for the recipe after trying these at our holiday gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These puff pastry twirls can be assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Simply prepare the spirals as directed, place them on a parchment lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, brush with milk and place directly in the preheated oven. Add about 5 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

For longer storage, freeze the unbaked twirls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw first. Simply brush with milk and bake from frozen, adding 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time. The convenience of having these ready to bake makes them perfect for unexpected guests.

Flavor Variations

While the blue cheese, walnut, and thyme combination is divine, this recipe lends itself beautifully to customization. Try substituting goat cheese and pistachios with fresh rosemary for a different flavor profile. Caramelized onions and gruyere make another wonderful combination. You could even go sweet with cinnamon sugar, pecans, and a cream cheese base.

The basic technique remains the same regardless of filling. Just ensure that wet ingredients are used sparingly to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy. Always taste your filling combination before assembling to ensure the flavor balance is to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

These twirls are versatile enough to work in multiple settings. Serve them as an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party alongside a glass of prosecco or crisp white wine. They make a beautiful addition to a cheese board with fresh fruits and complementary spreads.

For a more casual approach, pair them with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a delightful lunch. They also work wonderfully alongside soup for a more substantial meal. I particularly enjoy serving them with tomato soup for the perfect savory contrast.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute blue cheese with another cheese?

Yes, you can use Gorgonzola, feta, or even a creamy goat cheese as substitutes for blue cheese, depending on your taste preference.

→ How can I ensure the pastry stays crispy?

Keep the puff pastry well-chilled before using and avoid overloading it with moist fillings. This helps to achieve a flakier and crisper texture.

→ Can I make these pastry twirls ahead of time?

You can prepare and shape the twirls ahead of time, then store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Bake them fresh for the best results.

→ What can I serve these with?

These twirls are great as a standalone snack or appetizer, but you can also pair them with a fresh green salad or a light soup for a fuller meal.

→ Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Absolutely! Using good-quality store-bought puff pastry is a quick and convenient option for this recipe.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store the baked twirls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, or refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to restore crispiness.