Puff pastry twists with pesto and cheese are flaky, golden-brown savory treats that are perfect as party appetizers, lunchbox additions, or anytime snacks. Made with just three main ingredients, these twists are packed with flavor thanks to a generous layer of pesto and melted cheese wrapped in buttery, crisp pastry. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, they’re a crowd-pleasing favorite for all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple: Only three ingredients and minimal prep required.

• Bakes quickly: Ready in about 20 minutes, ideal for busy days.

• Customizable: Works with various cheeses and pestos.

• Vegetarian-friendly: Perfect for meat-free diets, with a vegan option.

• Great for all occasions: From lunchboxes to party platters, they suit every setting.

• Fun to make: The twisting process is easy and even kid-friendly.

• Crispy and cheesy: Every bite is a perfect balance of crunch and rich flavor.

• Freezer-friendly: Can be made in advance and reheated later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry (approximately 320g)

• 2 tablespoons green pesto (can be homemade or store-bought)

• 75g grated cheddar cheese (or a cheese of your choice)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) or 180°C if using a fan oven. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or use the sheet that comes with the pastry.

2. Prepare the pastry by unrolling the chilled puff pastry sheet. If your pastry is frozen, make sure it’s completely thawed before using.

3. Spread the pesto evenly over the entire surface of the pastry using the back of a spoon. Be careful not to press too hard, which could tear the dough.

4. Add the cheese by sprinkling the grated cheddar evenly over the pesto layer, covering the surface well but not piling too thickly.

5. Cut the pastry into strips about 2 cm wide using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter. You should get around 10–12 strips depending on the width.

6. Twist each strip gently several times, holding both ends. Don’t worry if some cheese falls out — simply press it back in.

7. Arrange the twists on the baking tray with a bit of space between each, as they will expand while baking.

8. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent overbaking.

9. Cool slightly before serving. They taste best warm but are still delicious at room temperature.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 10–12 twists

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegan version: Use vegan puff pastry and a plant-based pesto and cheese alternative.

• Different cheeses: Try mozzarella, parmesan, gouda, feta, or a mix for different textures and flavors.

• Red pesto: Use sun-dried tomato pesto instead of green pesto for a deeper, tangier flavor.

• Herbed twist: Add fresh or dried herbs like oregano, basil, or rosemary along with the cheese.

• Garlic version: Mix minced garlic or garlic powder into the pesto before spreading.

• Spicy option: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick.

• Sweet version: For a dessert twist, skip the pesto and cheese and use chocolate spread or cinnamon sugar instead.

• Nut-free: Choose a nut-free pesto or make your own using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.

Storage/Reheating

Allow the twists to cool completely before storing.

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Refrigerator: Can be stored for up to 4 days but may lose some crispness.

• Freezing: Freeze baked twists in a single layer, then transfer to a bag or container. Freeze for up to 1 month.

• Reheating: Place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it softens the pastry.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, if you prefer homemade puff pastry, it will work perfectly. Just roll it out to the same thickness as ready-rolled pastry for best results.

What type of pesto is best for this recipe?

Classic green basil pesto is ideal, but you can use red pesto or a homemade version. Choose one with a good balance of oil and herbs for easy spreading.

Can I make these twists gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free puff pastry and ensure your pesto and cheese are also gluten-free.

Why did my twists unfold in the oven?

If the pastry is too warm when you twist it, it can unravel during baking. Try chilling the twisted strips for 10–15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

Are these suitable for kids?

Absolutely. Kids love the cheesy flavor and fun shape. They’re also great for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Can I add extra fillings to the twists?

Yes. You can add thin slices of ham, chopped olives, or even a sprinkle of parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Do I need to egg-wash the pastry?

It’s optional. An egg wash will give the twists a glossy finish, but they still turn golden and delicious without it.

Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and still cold before working with it.

Can these be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and twist the strips in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to bake. Best results come when baking them fresh.

What’s the best way to serve these?

They’re perfect warm from the oven as a snack or served alongside dips, soups, or salads. You can also pack them into lunchboxes or picnic baskets.

Conclusion

Puff pastry twists with pesto and cheese are a fast, flavorful recipe that’s ideal for snacks, parties, or meal prep. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flaky, cheesy treat that’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you serve them warm or cold, plain or loaded with extras, these twists are guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.