Description
Indian Cheese Twists are flaky, savory puff pastry snacks filled with a spiced mixture of cheddar cheese, paneer, and aromatic Indian spices. Perfect as an appetizer or tea-time treat, these golden-brown twists deliver a delicious combination of crispy texture and flavorful filling, enhanced with fresh cilantro and a hint of heat from chili powder.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
Cheese Filling
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled paneer (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 tsp chili powder (adjust for spiciness)
- Salt, to taste
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Cut the sheet into 1-inch wide strips depending on your preferred thickness for the twists.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled paneer (if using), chopped cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the cheese mixture.
- Assemble Twists: Take one strip of puff pastry and spread a small spoonful of the cheese mixture evenly along its length. Fold the strip in half over the filling, pressing gently along the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Shape Twists: Twist the folded pastry strip several times to create a spiral shape. Arrange the twists on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for puffing during baking. Repeat this process with all remaining strips.
- Add Egg Wash and Toppings: Brush each twist with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden finish when baked. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the twists are puffed up and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the twists cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with chutney or yogurt for dipping.
Notes
- Paneer is optional but adds a rich, traditional Indian flavor to the filling.
- You can adjust the chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
- For a vegetarian option, make sure the puff pastry is made without animal fats.
- Twists are best served warm but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes if served later.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indian
