These savory bacon and cheese puff pastry twists are flaky, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious. With layers of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a hint of Parmesan and dried garlic, these are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or party treats. Pair them with tea infused with lemon, cinnamon, and cardamom for a delightful flavor contrast.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Twists:
- Puff pastry: 1 sheet (approx. 250 g)
- Flour: For dusting
- Bacon: 100 g (3.5 oz), cooked and crumbled
- Cheese: 100 g (3.5 oz), shredded (Cheddar or mozzarella)
- Ketchup: 2 tbsp
- Mayonnaise: 2 tbsp
- Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp, grated
- Dried garlic: 1 tsp
- Leek: 1 small, finely chopped
- Egg yolk: 1, for brushing
- Butter: 1 tbsp, melted
For the Tea:
- Lemon: 2 slices
- Cinnamon: 1 stick
- Cardamom: 2 pods
- Tea of choice: 2 bags or 2 tsp loose-leaf tea
- Water: 500 ml (2 cups)
Directions
Prepare the Puff Pastry Twists:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry to a rectangle.
- Spread ketchup and mayonnaise evenly over the pastry.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, chopped leek, Parmesan cheese, and dried garlic evenly over the surface.
- Fold the pastry in half, pressing gently to seal.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into strips about 2 cm wide.
- Twist each strip gently and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the twists with egg yolk mixed with melted butter for a golden finish.
Bake:
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
Prepare the Tea:
10. In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add tea bags or loose-leaf tea, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and lemon slices.
11. Simmer for 5 minutes, then strain and serve hot.
Serve:
12. Serve the puff pastry twists warm, accompanied by the fragrant tea.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the twists with a side of marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Enjoy with a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup for a light meal.
Cooking Tips
- For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Make sure the puff pastry is cold before rolling for a flakier texture.
- Use milk or egg white instead of egg yolk for brushing if preferred.
Nutritional Benefits
- Leek: Provides fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Cheese: A source of calcium and protein.
- Bacon: Adds protein and flavor in moderation.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten and dairy.
- Can be adjusted for vegetarians by removing bacon.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
Storage
- Store leftover twists in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to restore crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for entertaining or snacking.
- The flaky puff pastry and gooey cheese make it irresistible.
- The spiced tea adds a comforting and aromatic touch.
Conclusion
These Bacon and Cheese Puff Pastry Twists are a crowd-pleasing snack that’s simple yet packed with flavor. Pairing them with the aromatic lemon, cinnamon, and cardamom tea elevates the experience. Try this recipe for your next gathering, and it’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe. - What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of Parmesan and Gouda are excellent options. - Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the twists and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. - How do I make these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free puff pastry alternative. - Can I skip the bacon?
Absolutely, for a vegetarian version, add more vegetables like mushrooms or peppers. - Can I freeze the baked twists?
Yes, freeze them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F). - Can I add spices to the tea?
Yes, ginger or cloves can enhance the tea’s flavor. - How do I prevent the pastry from sticking?
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on the tray. - Can I add other herbs to the filling?
Yes, fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary would complement the flavors. - How long does the tea stay fresh?
The tea can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated before serving.