If there’s one show-stopping appetizer I reach for during special gatherings, it’s the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl. This dazzling pastry not only looks gorgeous on any table, but it also combines buttery layers of golden puff pastry with the bold richness of blue cheese, the nutty crunch of walnuts, and the subtle earthiness of fresh thyme. It comes together way more easily than its impressive appearance suggests, and every pull-apart twist is a perfect mix of flavors—earthy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything in this Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl comes straight from the heart of simple, flavorful cooking. Each ingredient plays a starring role, helping the pastry sing with savory notes and delightful textures, while making the recipe accessible even for beginners.
- Puff pastry sheets: Use two sheets, thawed if frozen—these create those irresistible golden, flaky layers.
- Blue cheese: About 3/4 cup, crumbled—not only tangy and creamy, but it melts into pockets of deliciousness as it bakes.
- Walnuts: 1/2 cup, finely chopped for just the right texture and a nutty kick that balances the cheese.
- Fresh thyme leaves: A tablespoon brings a floral, woodsy note that brightens up every bite.
- Egg: A single beaten egg is all you need for that gorgeous, glossy pastry sheen.
- Honey (optional): A tablespoon for drizzling—this hint of sweetness is a wonderful contrast to the savory richness.
- Flour for dusting: Just a sprinkle ensures your pastry rolls out smoothly and doesn’t stick.
How to Make Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which is the sweet spot for puff pastry perfection. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—you’ll thank yourself later when the twirl lifts off easily and stays intact for serving.
Step 2: Roll Out the First Puff Pastry Sheet
On a lightly floured surface, take one of your puff pastry sheets and gently roll it into a 10-inch circle. The flour helps prevent sticking, while rolling creates extra flaky layers. Place this circle onto your already-prepped baking sheet.
Step 3: Add the Filling
This is where the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl gets its personality! Evenly sprinkle blue cheese, walnuts, and fresh thyme across the surface of your pastry circle, leaving about a 1/2-inch border. Don’t worry about perfection—the flavors will melt together beautifully as it bakes.
Step 4: Top and Seal the Pastry
Roll out your second sheet of puff pastry to the same 10-inch diameter, then carefully set it on top of the first, covering your gorgeous filling. Gently press around the edges to seal everything in—no need for precision, just make sure the border is closed.
Step 5: Cut and Twist to Create the Twirl
Set a small bowl or cup in the very center of your pastry circle (don’t press down, just use it as a guide). Using a sharp knife, make 16 equally spaced cuts from the edge of the bowl to the outer rim. Now comes the magic: twist each strip 2–3 times to get that iconic pull-apart look. Remove the bowl for the grand reveal.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the entire surface with beaten egg. This gives your Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl the shiniest, most jaw-dropping golden finish. Bake on the center rack for 20–25 minutes, until puffed and deeply golden.
Step 7: Cool, Drizzle, and Serve
Let your twirl cool just slightly on the tray so it’s easier to handle. If you love a sweet-savory combo, drizzle with honey while it’s still warm. Pull apart those gorgeous twists and watch them disappear in minutes!
How to Serve Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl
Garnishes
Finish your Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl with a delicate drizzle of honey for sweetness, a scattering of extra fresh thyme, or even some extra crumbles of blue cheese for an extra punch. These little extras make it look and taste even more special.
Side Dishes
This savory twirl is spectacular next to a crisp green salad tossed with vinaigrette, a plate of marinated olives, or even a steaming bowl of tomato soup. You can also pair it with a fresh fruit platter to counterbalance the richness of the cheese and pastry.
Creative Ways to Present
For a real wow-factor, serve the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl on a wooden board, surrounded by nibbles like grapes, sliced pears, and roasted nuts. Try arranging the twists in a sunburst pattern or garnishing the center with edible flowers for an extra festive touch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow manage to have leftover twirl, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. For the best flavor and texture, enjoy it the same day you bake it, but a quick refresh in the oven can work wonders if needed.
Freezing
You can freeze the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl either baked or unbaked. For baked leftovers, wrap tightly in foil and keep in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. If freezing unbaked, assemble and freeze until solid before wrapping and storing—then bake straight from frozen, adding a few minutes to your baking time.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven magic, pop leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until re-crisped and the cheese is melty again. Microwaving isn’t ideal, as it can make the pastry a bit soggy, so the oven is the way to go.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses instead of blue cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or feta are both delicious alternatives if blue cheese isn’t your thing; just keep in mind the tangy profile these cheeses add, and feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Can I make the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl gluten-free?
Yes! There are gluten-free puff pastry options available in most large grocery stores. You may need to adjust your rolling technique since gluten-free pastry can be a little more delicate, but it will still turn out beautifully.
Do I have to use fresh thyme?
While fresh thyme gives the best flavor and color, you can use dried thyme in a pinch—just reduce the amount to about one teaspoon, as dried herbs pack a more concentrated punch.
Can I assemble the twirl ahead and bake later?
Definitely! Prepare your Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. When you’re ready to bake, brush with egg wash and pop it straight into the oven.
How do I keep the pastry from sticking to the tray?
Parchment paper is your best friend here! If you don’t have parchment, a silicone baking mat is another great option to ensure your beautiful twirl lifts off with no trouble at all.
Final Thoughts
Once you taste the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl, you’ll find yourself dreaming up reasons to make it again and again. It’s easy, comforting, and packs a sophisticated flavor punch in every flaky, cheesy twist. Gather your friends (or just treat yourself) and let this twirl be the star of your next spread!
Print
Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious blend of blue cheese, walnuts, and thyme wrapped in flaky puff pastry with this exquisite pull-apart puff pastry twirl. Perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- flour for dusting
Filling:
- 3/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Additional:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the pastry: Roll out one puff pastry sheet into a 10-inch circle on a floured surface and place it on the baking sheet.
- Add the filling: Sprinkle blue cheese, walnuts, and thyme over the pastry, leaving a border. Top with the second pastry sheet.
- Cut and twist: Use a bowl as a guide, cut the pastry into strips, twist each strip, then remove the bowl.
- Brush and bake: Brush with beaten egg, bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Serve: Cool slightly, drizzle with honey if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- This recipe is versatile – try different cheeses or add black pepper for variation.
- Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of twirl
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
