Pin This flaky puff pastry twist recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive appetizer that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. The combination of vibrant basil pesto and tangy goat cheese creates irresistible flavor pockets within buttery, golden pastry layers that pull apart with the perfect amount of resistance.
These twists have become my signature party contribution since discovering the recipe five years ago. What started as a last minute solution for an impromptu dinner party has turned into the most requested item whenever friends gather at our home.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry: thawed but still cold for optimal flakiness and easier handling
- 3 tablespoons basil pesto: choose a high quality brand with real Parmesan and pine nuts for best flavor
- 100g soft goat cheese: the creamier the better as it creates pockets of tangy goodness
- 1 beaten egg: creates that gorgeous golden shine and helps seal the pastry
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan: adds an extra savory note and crispy texture to the exterior
- Freshly ground black pepper: adds a subtle heat that balances the richness
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Ensure your puff pastry has thawed according to package directions but remains cold. A slightly chilled dough will be much easier to work with and produce flakier results.
- Roll the Pastry:
- Lightly flour your work surface and gently roll the pastry just enough to smooth out creases and create an even rectangle. Avoid overworking the dough or letting it warm too much as this will compromise the flaky layers.
- Apply the Pesto Layer:
- Using the back of a spoon spread the pesto in an even thin layer across the entire surface leaving just a tiny border at the edges. The pesto should be room temperature for easier spreading without tearing the delicate pastry.
- Add the Goat Cheese:
- Crumble the goat cheese with your fingers into small pieces and distribute evenly over the pesto. Breaking it into small portions ensures better distribution of flavor throughout each twist.
- Create the Base for Twisting:
- Carefully fold the pastry in half lengthwise pressing gently with your palms to seal the layers together without squeezing out the filling. Run a rolling pin lightly over the top to ensure good adhesion.
- Cut Into Strips:
- With a sharp knife or pizza cutter slice the folded pastry into 12 equal strips. Clean cuts are important so use a decisive motion rather than dragging the knife which can seal the pastry edges.
- Form the Twists:
- Hold each strip at both ends and twist in opposite directions creating a spiral effect. Place each twist on the prepared baking sheet ensuring they have room to expand during baking.
- Apply the Finishing Touches:
- Brush each twist lightly with beaten egg being careful not to soak the pastry. Sprinkle with Parmesan and freshly ground pepper focusing on areas where filling is visible for maximum flavor impact.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for precisely 16 to 18 minutes rotating the pan halfway through for even browning. The twists should be deeply golden with visibly separated flaky layers.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the twists to cool on the baking sheet for 3 to 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. This brief resting period allows the cheese to set slightly preventing burning mouths and ensuring better texture.
Pin The pesto is truly the heart of this recipe. I discovered this particular combination after experimenting with leftover homemade basil pesto from my garden harvest. The bright herbal notes cut through the richness of the pastry creating the perfect flavor balance that keeps everyone reaching for just one more.
Make Ahead Options
These twists are perfect for entertaining because you can prepare them completely up to the baking stage then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid transfer to an airtight container where they will keep for up to a month. When ready to serve simply place the frozen twists on a parchment lined baking sheet add an extra minute to the baking time and proceed as normal. No one will ever know they were made ahead.
Flavor Variations
While the classic basil pesto and goat cheese combination is hard to beat experimenting with different flavor profiles can keep this recipe exciting. Try substituting sun dried tomato pesto for a Mediterranean twist or olive tapenade for a more savory option. The goat cheese can be replaced with cream cheese mixed with herbs or even a sharp cheddar for a completely different taste experience. Just ensure whatever filling you choose isnt too wet which could make the pastry soggy.
Serving Suggestions
These twists shine as part of a larger appetizer spread alongside olives marinated vegetables and cured meats. For a more substantial offering serve them with a simple tomato soup for dipping. The twists also make an elegant accompaniment to a green salad for a light lunch or alongside a glass of crisp white wine for a sophisticated snack. I particularly love serving them standing upright in a tall glass which creates an impressive presentation with minimal effort.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your pastry becomes too warm while working with it simply place it in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before continuing. Cold pastry is crucial for achieving those perfect flaky layers. If your twists unravel during baking you likely didnt press the layers together firmly enough after adding the filling. Ensure you create a good seal without squashing all those beautiful layers. For extra insurance you can chill the formed twists for 15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
Pin These savory puffs are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at room temperature or gently reheated.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of pesto works best?
Classic basil pesto is ideal, but sun-dried tomato or olive tapenade adds unique flavors as well.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?
Yes, try ricotta, feta, or cream cheese for a milder or different tang.
- → How do I ensure the twists stay crisp?
Bake on a parchment-lined sheet until deeply golden, and let them cool slightly before serving.
- → Are these twists suitable ahead of time?
Prepare and twist in advance, then bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Serve with marinara, garlic aioli, or whipped ricotta to complement the flavors.