Golden Parmesan Cheese Straws with a Hint of Rosemary

There's something wonderfully elegant about a simple, well-made appetizer. These Golden Parmesan Cheese Straws are the perfect example. They are incredibly easy to make yet look and taste like they came from a gourmet bakery. With a light, flaky texture and a savory, cheesy flavor, they are a perfect snack, a beautiful addition to a charcuterie board, or a simple appetizer for a party.

The secret to these cheese straws is the combination of store-bought puff pastry and a few high-quality ingredients. The salty Parmesan and aromatic rosemary infuse the pastry, creating a warm, savory bite that is simply irresistible.

Golden Parmesan Cheese Straws

Yields: About 20-25 straws

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions

  • 1 large egg, beaten

  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

  • A pinch of salt and black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Unroll Pastry: Gently unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.

2. Add the Flavor

  1. Egg Wash: Brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with the beaten egg.

  2. Sprinkle: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the puff pastry.

3. Cut and Twist

  1. Cut into Strips: Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the pastry sheet in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half into ½-inch wide strips.

  2. Twist: Take each strip and gently twist it several times from both ends to create a spiral shape.

  3. Arrange: Place the twisted straws on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.

4. Bake Until Golden

  1. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese straws are puffed, golden brown, and crispy.

  2. Cool: Let the straws cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro-Tips for a Perfect Straw

  • Thaw Properly: Make sure your puff pastry is properly thawed but still cold. This will make it easier to work with and ensure a flaky result.

  • The Right Cheese: Use a high-quality block of Parmesan and grate it finely yourself. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly.

  • Don't Overdo the Twist: A few gentle twists are all you need. Over-twisting can make the straws tough.

  • Bake in Batches: If you have a smaller baking sheet, bake in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can prevent the straws from puffing up and getting crispy.

  • Serve Fresh: These cheese straws are best served on the day they are made, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.