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If you’ve ever wanted to impress guests with something that looks fancy but is secretly easy to make, these Bacon & Herb Cheese Puff Pastry Twists with Mustard-Honey Glaze are your golden ticket. Imagine flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry filled with creamy Philadelphia cream cheese, a melty cheese of your choice, and aromatic herbs, all wrapped around smoky bacon. The whole thing bakes to golden perfection and is finished with a sweet-and-savory mustard-honey glaze that makes each bite addictive.

This is one of those recipes that’s perfect for parties, weekend brunches, or even a cozy night in with a glass of wine. The combination of crispy pastry, rich cheese, and fragrant herbs is irresistible, and the bacon adds that salty, meaty contrast that keeps you coming back for “just one more.” Plus, the mustard-honey drizzle gives a gourmet touch that makes these taste like something straight from a bakery.

It’s a recipe that works for beginners because puff pastry does most of the heavy lifting. All you have to do is assemble, twist, bake, and brush with glaze. It’s that easy — but the end result looks like you’ve been working in the kitchen for hours.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry (Blätterteig), thawed if frozen
Philadelphia cream cheese (about 100–150 g)
Cheese of your choice (e.g., Gouda, cheddar, or mozzarella), grated
Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh basil, chopped
Herbs de Provence (Kräuter der Provence)
6–8 slices bacon (Speck)
1 egg, beaten
For the Mustard-Honey Glaze:
2 tablespoons Dijon or yellow mustard
1 tablespoon honey
A pinch of Herbs de Provence

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface or keep it on its parchment paper for easy handling.
Add the Creamy Layer: Spread an even layer of Philadelphia cream cheese over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Add Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle your grated cheese generously over the cream cheese layer. Scatter chopped parsley, basil, and a pinch of Herbs de Provence evenly on top.
Layer with Bacon: Lay the bacon strips over the pastry so they cover the cheese and herbs. You can run them parallel or slightly diagonal for a decorative twist effect later.
Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into strips as shown in the video. Twist each strip gently but firmly to create a spiral, making sure the filling stays inside.
Egg Wash: Place the twisted pastry strips onto a lined baking tray. Brush each one with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake: Transfer to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the bacon is cooked through.
Make the Glaze: While the pastry bakes, combine mustard, honey, and a small pinch of Herbs de Provence in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
Finish and Serve: Once baked, remove the pastry twists from the oven and brush lightly with the mustard-honey glaze while still warm. Serve immediately, or let them cool slightly for easier handling.

Nutrients (per serving, based on 8 twists, approximate)

Calories: 260
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 460mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of flaky puff pastry, creamy cheese, savory bacon, and aromatic herbs is a flavor and texture dream. These twists are crisp on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and just the right amount of salty and sweet. They’re portable, easy to serve, and always the first thing to disappear at a party.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

This recipe is inspired by classic European puff pastry appetizers, often served in French cafés and bakeries. The bacon-and-cheese filling nods to Alsatian flavors, while the mustard-honey glaze is a modern twist that adds depth and contrast. Herbs de Provence — a blend of thyme, rosemary, oregano, marjoram, and lavender — bring a touch of the French countryside.

Ingredient Spotlight

Puff Pastry: The foundation of the dish, providing light, flaky layers.
Philadelphia Cream Cheese: Adds richness and a creamy base that holds the filling together.
Herbs de Provence: Aromatic and floral, elevating the flavor profile.
Bacon: Salty, smoky, and a perfect contrast to the creamy cheese.
Mustard-Honey Glaze: A sweet-savory finish that ties all the flavors together.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These twists are best served fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 8 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

Common Variations to Try

Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Cheese Swap: Try brie, blue cheese, or goat cheese for a different flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a thin layer of chili paste under the cream cheese before twisting.
Sweet Version: Replace savory fillings with Nutella and nuts for a dessert twist.

Pairing Recommendations

These puff pastry twists go beautifully with sparkling wine, dry white wine, or even beer. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or an herby iced tea. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or a charcuterie board for a complete spread.

Health Benefits

While puff pastry and bacon are indulgent, you do get benefits from the fresh herbs, which are rich in antioxidants. Using a mustard-honey glaze instead of a heavier sauce keeps the topping light while still flavorful. You can also choose reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.

Conclusion

Bacon & Herb Cheese Puff Pastry Twists with Mustard-Honey Glaze are proof that impressive appetizers don’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep, you can create a bakery-worthy snack that’s perfect for entertaining or indulging yourself on a weekend. The crispy pastry, creamy filling, and perfect blend of savory and sweet make them an instant favorite. Once you serve them, don’t expect leftovers — these will vanish fast.