This Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull Apart Puff Pastry Twirl is an elegant and delicious appetizer or snack that combines the robust flavors of blue cheese, the crunch of walnuts, and the aromatic touch of fresh thyme. Wrapped in flaky puff pastry, this pull-apart twirl is not only visually appealing but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a savory treat. The combination of these ingredients creates a perfect balance of rich, savory, and nutty flavors, all encased in a golden, crispy pastry.
5. **Serving:**
– **Cooling:** Allow the pull-apart twirl to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter.
– **Garnishing:** Garnish with a few extra fresh thyme leaves if desired.
### Tips and Variations:
– **Nuts Variation:** Substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
– **Cheese Options:** Use a different type of blue cheese like Gorgonzola or Roquefort for varied intensity.
– **Sweet Touch:** Add a few dried cranberries or apricots for a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.
– **Herb Options:** Try using fresh rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different aromatic profile.
### The Experience:
This Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull Apart Puff Pastry Twirl is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The golden, flaky layers of puff pastry encase the rich, tangy blue cheese, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, and the thyme adds a fragrant note. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making this pull-apart twirl an irresistible appetizer or snack. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature, it’s a delightful addition to any gathering or a special treat for yourself.
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets of puff pastry (square shaped sheets)
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 100 grams of blue cheese, crumbled
- 100 grams of grated Parmesan cheese
- 50 grams of walnuts, chopped
- 6-8 sprigs of fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon of milk
- Sea salt and cracked pepper
Directions:
1. Pre-heat oven to 180C (350F). Note, we use a gas oven that runs quite hot – you can increase to 200C (390F) in an electric non fan forced oven.
2. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of honey on each sheet of puff pastry.
3. Divide walnuts, blue cheese and Parmesan cheese and scatter over each sheet of puff pastry. Top with fresh thyme leaves and season with sea salt and cracked pepper
4. Roll up each sheet of pastry and cut in half lengthways (you may need to tuck the pastry in after cutting to keep filling in).
5. On a sheet of baking paper carefully twist each length of pastry and make a round coil shape. Brush with milk and bake in oven for about 25-30 mins until pastry is puffed and golden and cooked through.
6. Remove from oven, scatter extra thyme leaves on top and serve warm.