Name: Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: Puff Pastry: 1 sheet puff pastry (about 10 x 12 inches), thawed if frozen, Blue Cheese Filling: 3 oz crumbled blue cheese, Walnut Mixture: 1/2 cup walnuts finely chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, Egg Wash: 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water, Optional: 1 tablespoon honey for drizzling, flour for dusting surface

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If you’re craving an appetizer that will instantly elevate any gathering, look no further than Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl. This stunning bake delivers a golden, flaky exterior with pockets of creamy blue cheese, crunchy toasted walnuts, and fresh, aromatic thyme. It’s the ultimate combination of rich, tangy, and nutty flavors wrapped in irresistibly buttery pastry—the kind of crowd-pleaser that disappears in minutes, leaving only requests for the recipe!

Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s a lovely simplicity to each item in this Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl—every ingredient adding its own special magic, whether it’s the lush creaminess of the cheese or the fragrant notes of fresh thyme. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters:

Puff Pastry: Opt for all-butter if possible; it bakes up crisp and golden, providing the perfect canvas for savory fillings.
Blue Cheese: Go for a quality crumbled blue cheese for a flavorful punch and that signature creamy, tangy bite.
Walnuts: Finely chopped so every twist is packed with crunchy, toasty flavor without overpowering the cheese.
Fresh Thyme Leaves: Adds an herbal freshness that balances the richness of the blue cheese and nuts.
Egg (beaten with water): This simple wash is the secret to a glossy, golden finish on your pastry.
Honey (optional): A gentle drizzle before serving offers a sweet contrast to the saltiness of the cheese—don’t skip it if you love sweet and savory!
All-Purpose Flour (for dusting): Just enough to keep your work surface (and rolling pin) user-friendly; prevents sticking for easy assembly.

How to Make Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Work Surface

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s perfectly hot when your twirl is ready to bake. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and lightly dust your countertop with flour to keep the pastry from sticking during rolling.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Unroll your thawed puff pastry onto the floured surface and gently use a rolling pin to smooth it to a rectangle (about 10 x 12 inches). Take your time here—work gently so you don’t press out those precious buttery layers.

Step 3: Add the Fillings

Evenly sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese all over the surface, making sure to get right to the edges. Layer the finely chopped walnuts on top, then finish with a scatter of fragrant fresh thyme. The trio infuses your pastry with a remarkable blend of creaminess, texture, and herbaceous aroma.

Step 4: Fold and Slice

Fold the pastry in half lengthwise, gently pressing down to encase the filling. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into strips about 1 inch wide. This step is easier than it looks—just work carefully for even pieces that will twist beautifully.

Step 5: Shape Your Twirls

Twist each strip gently into a spiral, then arrange them side by side in a circular pattern on your prepared baking sheet, tucking the ends under to hold their shape. The magic of the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl is in this beautiful, show-stopping swirl!

Step 6: Brush and Bake

Brush the entire twirl generously with your egg wash to guarantee that gorgeous golden sheen. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden all over. If you’re anything like me, the heavenly aroma will have you peeking into the oven long before it’s done.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touch

Let the twirl cool for a few minutes out of the oven—just enough so it’s warm but not too hot to handle. If you like, drizzle with honey before serving. That sweet note is a delightful counterpoint to the rich, salty goodness inside each bite.

How to Serve Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl

Garnishes

A final scatter of extra fresh thyme leaves or a sprinkling of finely chopped walnuts on top brings color, aroma, and just a hint of crunch to your Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl. If you went the honey route, a thin ribbon glistening over the top is both beautiful and inviting.

Side Dishes

This twirl makes an amazing centerpiece for a cheeseboard alongside grapes, fig jam, and olives. Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables for a light, well-rounded meal. It also plays nicely with a sparkling wine or crisp cider if you’re serving drinks.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into wedges like a savory tart for individual servings, or place the full pull-apart twirl at the center of the table with a little card encouraging guests to “twist and share.” If you want to get fancy, use a cake stand for extra height and let those golden layers and spiral edges take center stage.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any uneaten Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl can be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for one day, or in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pastry will soften slightly over time but still tastes fantastic.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing in the freezer for up to a month. To enjoy later, thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge. For best results, freeze before drizzling with honey and add that after reheating.

Reheating

To bring back that gorgeous flakiness, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 8 minutes, or until warmed through. A quick pass in the oven revives the crispness and freshens up the filling—far superior to the microwave!

FAQs

Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or hazelnuts are both excellent swaps; each brings a slightly different character, but all work beautifully in a Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pastry twirl up to a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge (unbaked and covered), then simply egg wash and bake when you’re ready to serve. Warm and fresh is always best!

What kind of blue cheese should I use?

Pick your favorite! A mild gorgonzola adds subtle creaminess, while a robust Stilton brings sharper flavor. As long as it crumbles well, any blue cheese elevates the Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, if you find a good-quality gluten-free puff pastry (many are now available in stores), you can absolutely enjoy this recipe gluten-free while keeping all those delicious flavors intact.

How can I keep the pastry extra crisp?

Be sure your filling ingredients aren’t too wet and always bake the twirl on a preheated, lined baking sheet. Serving soon after baking also ensures you get the legendary flakiness that makes this Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl truly special!

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to fall a little bit in love with Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl—whether you’re hosting a party, planning a special family snack, or just treating yourself. Try it once, and I promise, it’ll earn a regular spot in your entertaining repertoire!

Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl Recipe

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4.9 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the savory delight of this Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl – a perfect appetizer for any gathering. The rich flavors of blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and fragrant thyme are beautifully encased in flaky puff pastry, creating a stunning and delicious twist on traditional pull-apart bread.

Ingredients

Puff Pastry:

1 sheet puff pastry (about 10 x 12 inches), thawed if frozen,

Blue Cheese Filling:

3 oz crumbled blue cheese,

Walnut Mixture:

1/2 cup walnuts finely chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves,

Egg Wash:

1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water,

Optional:

1 tablespoon honey for drizzling, flour for dusting surface

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle.
Assemble: Spread the crumbled blue cheese evenly over the pastry. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and thyme on top. Fold the pastry in half lengthwise to enclose the filling and gently press down.
Cut and Shape: Cut the pastry into strips about 1 inch wide. Twist each strip into a spiral and arrange them side by side in a circular shape on the baking sheet, tucking ends under to create a twirl.
Bake: Brush with egg wash for shine. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden and puffed.
Finish: Remove from oven, cool slightly, and drizzle with honey before serving if desired.