Get ready to transform your ordinary appetizer into an extraordinary culinary experience! These Featured Friday Cayenne Dusted Puff Pastry Cheese Straws are not just a snack – they're a flavor explosion that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Imagine crispy, golden twists of buttery puff pastry, generously coated with sharp cheese and a kick of cayenne that dances on your taste buds. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a quick appetizer, or simply craving something spectacularly delicious, these cheese straws are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 straws
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cheese straws from sticking.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth out any creases and to slightly increase its size. Aim for a rectangle shape, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into long strips, approximately 1 inch wide and 6 inches long. You can adjust the size based on your preference.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure the cayenne is evenly distributed throughout the cheese.
- Take one strip of puff pastry and sprinkle a generous amount of the cheese and cayenne mixture along one side of the strip. Fold the strip over to cover the cheese, pressing down gently to seal the edges.
- Twist the folded strip several times to create a spiral effect, and then place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process for the remaining strips of puff pastry.
- Once all the cheese straws are twisted and placed on the baking sheet, brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the tops of the cheese straws for added flavor.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese straws are puffed and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the cheese straws from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer or snack. Enjoy your Featured Friday Cayenne Dusted Puff Pastry Cheese Straws!
Tips
- Make sure your puff pastry is completely thawed but still cold for the best texture and rise.
- Use a sharp pizza cutter or knife for clean, even strips.
- Don't skip the egg wash - it gives those beautiful golden brown edges.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavor profiles.
- Let the cheese straws cool slightly before serving to allow them to crisp up.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but they're best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- For extra heat, adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice tolerance.
- Serve with a cool dipping sauce like ranch or a herbed yogurt to balance the spice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
