Hello, fellow food lovers! Today, we’re baking something truly special — a Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl that’s flaky, rich, and downright irresistible. This elegant yet easy appetizer combines creamy blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and fragrant thyme for a sophisticated twist on classic puff pastry. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this savory pastry will impress with both flavor and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe blends European-inspired flavors with the simplicity of store-bought puff pastry. Each golden layer encases the creamy tang of blue cheese, the nutty crunch of walnuts, and the earthy aroma of thyme — a combination that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for cozy get-togethers, wine nights, or as a stylish starter at your next gathering.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 sheets of puff pastry (square-shaped)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 100 g blue cheese, crumbled
- 100 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 50 g walnuts, chopped
- 6–8 sprigs fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
Substitutions:
- Use vegan blue cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a plant-based option.
- Replace walnuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
How to Make Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl
Step 1: Preheat the oven.
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). For non-fan ovens, increase to 200°C (390°F).
Step 2: Prepare the pastry.
Lay out both puff pastry sheets and drizzle each with 1 tablespoon of honey.
Step 3: Add the filling.
Evenly sprinkle blue cheese, Parmesan, and chopped walnuts over the pastry. Add fresh thyme leaves, then season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Roll and cut.
Roll each pastry sheet tightly, then cut each roll in half lengthwise. Gently tuck in any loose filling.
Step 5: Twist and shape.
On parchment paper, twist the halves into spirals and form into a round coil shape.
Step 6: Brush and bake.
Brush the tops with milk for a golden finish, then bake for 25–30 minutes, until puffed and deeply golden brown.
Step 7: Serve.
Top with extra thyme leaves and serve warm.
Helpful Tips
- Keep it cold: Work with well-chilled pastry for the flakiest texture.
- Avoid sogginess: Ensure the cheese and walnuts are not too wet before layering.
- Add flair: A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the baked twirl adds a lovely sweet-tangy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this savory puff pastry twirl with:
- A crisp green salad or creamy tomato soup
- A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
It’s perfect for brunch, appetizers, or as part of a cozy dinner spread.
Storage & Leftovers
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Repurpose: Chop up leftovers and toss them into a salad or crumble over casseroles for extra crunch.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 320 | Protein: 9g | Carbs: 24g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Calcium: 150mg | Iron: 1mg
This dish delivers rich flavor, healthy fats, and a boost of calcium — comfort food that feels fancy and nourishing at once.
Final Thoughts
This Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl is the perfect balance of savory and sweet, crisp and creamy. It’s a show-stopping appetizer that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort. Serve it fresh from the oven and watch it disappear in no time!
Happy baking — and don’t forget to share your own twist on this recipe in the comments! 💛