Homemade Dutch Cheese Twists

Ingredients

• 2 sheets (400g) puff pastry 2 sheets (400g) puff pastry
• 1 cup (100g) grated Gouda cheese 1 cup (100g) grated Gouda cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish) 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 23g, 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle the grated Gouda cheese evenly over one of the puff pastry sheets.
4. 4.
   Place the second puff pastry sheet on top of the cheese-covered sheet and press gently to seal.
5. 5.
   Cut the layered puff pastry into strips, about 1 inch wide.
6. 6.
   Twist each strip gently and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each twist.
7. 7.
   Brush the twists with the beaten egg, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and puffed up.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Puff pastry — Ensure that the puff pastry is thawed properly before using it. If it becomes too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm it up.
• Gouda cheese — Use a good quality Gouda cheese for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as aged Gouda or smoked Gouda, to add a unique twist to the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced flavor, you can add a pinch of paprika or dried herbs to the grated cheese before sprinkling it on the puff pastry.
• If you prefer a milder taste, you can use a combination of Gouda cheese and another mild cheese, such as Edam or Cheddar.
• Serve the Homemade Dutch Cheese Twists warm for the best texture and flavor.
• These twists can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to regain their crispiness.
• Feel free to experiment with different shapes and sizes for a fun twist on presentation.

Serving advice

Serve the Homemade Dutch Cheese Twists as a delicious appetizer or snack. They are perfect for parties, game nights, or even as a side dish for soups and salads. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Homemade Dutch Cheese Twists on a platter or a wooden board for an inviting presentation. Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, over the twists for a pop of color. Serve them alongside a small bowl of dipping sauce to enhance the overall visual appeal.