Name: Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed); 3 tablespoons pesto; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus 3 tablespoons, divided); 1 whole egg; 1 tablespoon water; 1 pinch extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of flaky pastry, fragrant pesto, and sharp Parmesan cheese. These Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws are the perfect blend of savory and crispy, making them an ideal snack for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a quiet night in, or looking for a fun appetizer to impress your guests. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these delicious straws that will have everyone coming back for more.

Reasons to Love Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws

Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are incredibly versatile and easy to make. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love them:

Quick and Easy: With only a handful of ingredients and simple steps, these cheese straws come together in no time.
Flavor Packed: The combination of pesto and Parmesan creates a burst of flavor that elevates any snack table.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game day, a picnic, or a cozy gathering, these straws fit right in.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add spices for an extra kick.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the straws in advance, making them a convenient option for entertaining.

Ingredient Checklist

To make these scrumptious Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
3 tablespoons pesto
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus 3 tablespoons, divided
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
Garnish: Extra Parmesan cheese

Prep & Cook Tools

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools:

Rolling Pin: For rolling out the puff pastry to the desired thickness.
Baking Sheet: To hold the cheese straws while they bake.
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: To cut the pastry into straws.

Stepwise Method: Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured surface. If necessary, gently roll the pastry to smooth out any creases and to ensure it is about 1/8-inch thick.

Step 2: Spread the Pesto

Spread 1.5 tablespoons of pesto evenly over one sheet of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. This will help the pesto stay in place during baking.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pesto-covered pastry. The cheese will add a delightful savory flavor to the straws.

Step 4: Layer the Second Sheet

Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the first one, pressing down gently to seal the layers together. This will create a wonderful texture and help keep the filling inside.

Step 5: Cut the Straws

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the layered pastry into strips about 1 inch wide. You can make them longer or shorter depending on your preference.

Step 6: Twist the Straws

Take each strip and twist it several times to create a spiral shape. Place the twisted straws on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them for expansion while baking.

Step 7: Prepare the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water until well combined. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the tops of the twisted straws with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden color as they bake.

Step 8: Add Extra Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese over the twisted straws for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the straws from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws!

In-Season Swaps

Feel free to customize your Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws based on seasonal ingredients. Here are some swaps to consider:

Fresh Herbs: Substitute traditional basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto for a different flavor.
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or feta for unique flavors.
Add Greens: Incorporate finely chopped kale or spinach into the pesto for added nutrition.
Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or garlic powder to the cheese mix for a spicy kick.

Slip-Ups to Skip

While making Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws, keep these common pitfalls in mind to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly:

Don’t rush the thawing process for the puff pastry; ensure it is fully thawed for easy handling.
Avoid overfilling the pastry with pesto or cheese, as this can cause leakage during baking.
Make sure to twist the straws gently but firmly; too loose and they won’t hold their shape.
Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different, and you want them perfectly golden, not burnt.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have any leftover Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws, here’s how to store them for later enjoyment:

Room Temperature: Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to 5 days, reheating in the oven for best results.
Freezer: You can freeze uncooked straws for up to 2 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What should I do if my puff pastry doesn’t puff up?

If your puff pastry doesn’t puff up, it may not have been properly thawed or rolled out. Ensure it’s at room temperature and try rolling it out gently to create layers.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and works perfectly in these cheese straws. Just choose a quality brand for the best flavor.

How do I reheat leftover cheese straws?

The best way to reheat leftover Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Can I make these cheese straws ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the straws and freeze them before baking. Just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy!

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re looking for more quick and delicious recipes, check these out:

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Pesto Parmesan Cheese Straws down, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! These delightful snacks are sure to impress your family and friends. As you experiment with different flavors and variations, don’t forget to share your creations on social media. Happy baking!