Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws

There is something truly magical about 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed transforming into golden, crispy Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws that are packed with flavor and texture. This recipe is a perfect example of how a humble sheet of puff pastry can be elevated with a sprinkling of fresh rosemary, sharp Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic powder. Whether you’re whipping these up for a casual snack or an elegant appetizer, the buttery flakiness combined with savory toppings makes every bite irresistibly delicious and so easy to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role, adding layers of flavor and achieving the perfect texture and color. With just a handful of staples, you’re set to create a delicious treat that will impress everyone at your table.

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: The flaky, buttery base that puffs up beautifully in the oven, providing lightness and crunch.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory richness and a slightly nutty flavor that crisps up delightfully.
• 1 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary: Brings herbal freshness and an aromatic depth to the straws.
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Offers a subtle garlicky warmth that complements the cheese and herbs perfectly.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
• 1 egg, beaten: Acts as a golden glaze to give the puff pastry a beautiful shine and help the toppings stick.

How to Make 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple step sets the stage for an even, perfect bake that results in golden cheese straws every time.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Lightly flour your workspace and roll out your 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed into a large rectangle. This creates an even surface to showcase your toppings and ensures uniform strips that cook consistently without burning.

Step 3: Brush with Egg Wash

Brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with the beaten egg. This not only helps the toppings stick but also gives the pastry a gorgeous golden glaze as it bakes, elevating its visual appeal alongside the flavors.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, and salt evenly across the pastry. Distributing these ingredients carefully lets each bite burst with a perfect balance of cheesy, herbal, and savory notes.

Step 5: Fold and Cut

Fold the pastry lengthwise to seal in the flavorful toppings gently. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into 1/2-inch-wide strips. This technique traps the ingredients inside and creates those wonderful layered spirals when twisted.

Step 6: Twist and Bake

Twist each strip and place it on your prepared baking sheet, keeping some space between each one for even cooking. Bake the straws for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn a stunning golden brown and achieve that perfect crispness everyone adores.

How to Serve 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Garnishes

For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan or finely chopped fresh rosemary on top right after baking. This keeps the aromas vibrant and adds a pop of color that makes these straws look as good as they taste.

Side Dishes

Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws pair wonderfully with dips like a tangy marinara, creamy aioli, or even a zesty herb cream cheese spread. They also complement soups and salads perfectly, offering a crunchy element against softer textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cheese straws upright in a decorative jar or tuck them alongside a cheese and charcuterie board for a visually appealing and inviting platter. You can also bundle them with a ribbon or tie a sprig of rosemary around for an elegant party presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any straws left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their crispness, making sure they stay as enjoyable as when freshly baked.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked twisted strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. When ready to bake, just place them on your baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To revive the crispiness, reheat leftover straws in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. This warms them through and brings back the flaky texture better than microwaving, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry directly?

It’s best to thaw the puff pastry completely before working with it. Trying to roll or fold frozen pastry can cause it to crack and won’t yield the best results in texture or appearance.

What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

Dried rosemary can work in a pinch, but use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated. Fresh rosemary gives a brighter, more aromatic flavor that really elevates this recipe.

Can I make these cheese straws without eggs?

The egg wash really helps with browning and binding the cheese and herbs to the pastry, but you can brush with a little milk or melted butter as an alternative for a similar effect.

How thin should I roll the puff pastry?

A quarter-inch thickness is ideal—thin enough to create crisp layers but thick enough to support the cheese and twists without tearing.

Are these cheese straws suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes! Once cooled, store baked cheese straws in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze them. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen for best texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the delight of pulling freshly baked Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws from the oven using just 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed and a handful of simple ingredients. This recipe is a beautiful reminder that a little creativity and quality ingredients can turn an everyday snack into something special. I encourage you to give these a try—they’re easy, elegant, and absolutely addictive!

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