Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws Recipe

Crispy Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws Recipe: Irresistible Bites

Crispy, golden rosemary parmesan cheese straws dance between savory sophistication and comforting simplicity.

Delicate herbs mingle with sharp cheese, creating an irresistible appetizer that sparks conversation.

Cheese lovers will find these slender pastries impossible to resist.

Each delicate straw promises a perfect balance of crunch and flavor.

Minimal ingredients transform into an elegant starter that impresses without effort.

Guests won’t be able to stop munching on these addictive little bites.

You’ll want to make an extra batch, just in case they disappear too quickly.

Why Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws Are So Tasty

  • Craft Gourmet Appetizers: Transform simple puff pastry into elegant, restaurant-quality cheese straws that impress guests with minimal culinary skills.
  • Quick Party Pleaser: Prepare these crispy, flavor-packed straws in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous gatherings or last-minute entertaining.
  • Customize with Confidence: Experiment with different herbs, spices, and cheese combinations to match your taste preferences and create unique variations every time.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Deliver a delightful blend of rosemary, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys these savory treats.

Ingredients In Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws

Main Ingredients:
  • Puff Pastry: A light and flaky pastry sheet that serves as the base for the cheese straws.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A sharp and salty cheese that adds rich flavor to the straws.
Herbs and Spices:
  • Rosemary, Fennel Seeds: Aromatic herbs that provide a complex and savory taste profile to the cheese straws.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A tangy ingredient that brings a concentrated burst of tomato flavor.
Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Egg, Milk: A mixture that creates a golden brown glaze and helps ingredients adhere to the pastry.
  • Mustard Powder, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the cheese straws.

How To Bake Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws

Step 1: Set Up the Oven

Warm up your oven to 375°F. Cover two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Egg Wash

Whisk together egg, milk, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This mixture will help add rich flavor and create a golden shine on the cheese straws.

Step 3: Roll Out Pastry Dough

Sprinkle flour on your work surface. Roll out each puff pastry sheet into a rectangular shape measuring about 10×12 inches, keeping the thickness around 1/8 inch.

Ensure the dough is smooth and even.

Step 4: Layer First Pastry Sheet

Brush the first pastry sheet with the prepared egg wash.

Sprinkle your toppings evenly:
  • Rosemary
  • Fennel seeds
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Parmesan cheese

Step 5: Add Top Pastry Layer

Place the second puff pastry sheet on top. Brush with egg wash and add remaining toppings.

Use a rolling pin to gently press the layers together, ensuring they stick.

Step 6: Cut Pastry into Strips

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the layered pastry into 1/2-inch wide strips.

Make clean, straight cuts for uniform cheese straws.

Step 7: Twist the Strips

Hold each strip at both ends and twist in opposite directions.

This creates the classic, beautiful spiral shape. Arrange the twisted strips on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Chill and Prepare for Baking

Refrigerate the cheese straws for 10 minutes. This helps them maintain their shape during baking.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 8-10 minutes. Flip the straws and continue baking for another 4-6 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.

Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or snack that will impress your guests with its elegant appearance and rich flavor.

Tips That Help Cheese Straws Shine

  • Create uniform pastry strips by using a ruler or pizza cutter for precise, even cuts.
  • Chill the pastry before baking to help maintain the twisted shape and create a crispier texture.
  • Experiment with alternative herbs like thyme or basil for different flavor profiles.
  • Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain crunchiness.
  • Swap puff pastry with gluten-free alternatives for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring a similar flaky result.

Creative Cheese Straw Swaps

  • Mediterranean Herb Straws: Replace rosemary with a blend of oregano, thyme, and basil, adding chopped kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Cheese Straws: Mix in finely diced jalapeños and swap Parmesan for pepper jack cheese, creating a zesty and bold version of the original recipe.
  • Smoky Bacon Cheese Straws: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits and smoked paprika over the pastry layers, using aged cheddar instead of Parmesan for a rich, savory taste.
  • Sweet and Savory Straws: Incorporate finely chopped pecans and a light drizzle of honey, using a mild gouda cheese to balance the sweet and nutty elements.

What Goes Well With Cheese Straws

  • Elevate Cheese Straws Pairings
  • Sip Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complements the herbal rosemary and tangy Parmesan with its bright, zesty profile that cuts through the richness of the pastry.
  • Match with Charcuterie Board: Serve these elegant straws alongside cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and a selection of soft and hard cheeses to create a stunning appetizer spread that highlights their savory flavors.
  • Create Mediterranean Dipping Experience: Prepare a quick olive tapenade or herbed aioli for dunking, which enhances the sun-dried tomato and rosemary notes while adding a luxurious creamy texture to the crispy straws.

Best Storage For Cheese Straws

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover cheese straws in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap cooled cheese straws individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain crisp texture.
  • Reheating Oven Method: Restore crispiness by placing straws on a baking sheet and warming at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
  • Room Temperature Revival: Let frozen or refrigerated straws sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance their original texture and flavor.

Questions About Cheese Straws Answered

  • Can I use different herbs instead of rosemary?

Yes, you can substitute rosemary with thyme, oregano, or basil to create unique flavor combinations that match your taste preferences.

  • Is it necessary to refrigerate the pastry before baking?

Chilling the twisted pastry strips helps them maintain their shape and creates a crispier texture during baking, so it’s recommended but not mandatory.

  • What type of puff pastry works best for this recipe?

Store-bought frozen puff pastry sheets work perfectly. Ensure they are thawed but still cold when you start preparing the cheese straws.

  • How can I prevent the cheese straws from sticking to the baking sheet?

Using parchment paper is crucial. It prevents sticking and helps achieve an even golden-brown color without any tearing when removing the straws.

Print
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Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws Recipe

Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Straws Recipe


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4.6 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 32-36 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Crisp rosemary parmesan cheese straws offer a sophisticated twist on classic appetizers, blending herbal and savory notes into delicate pastry bites. Guests will crave these elegant snacks that elevate any gathering with Mediterranean charm and irresistible crunch.


Ingredients

Scale

Cheese and Herbs:

  • 5 ounces (141 grams) fresh grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons (10 milliliters) minced rosemary
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 milliliters) fennel seeds

Pastry Base:

  • 1 package pepperidge farm® puff pastry sheets, thawed overnight in the refrigerator

Seasoning and Egg Wash:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon (0.625 milliliters) garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon (0.625 milliliters) black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare two parchment-lined baking sheets for crispy cheese straws.
  2. Create a flavor-enhancing egg wash by whisking egg, milk, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl.
  3. Generously dust a work surface with flour and carefully roll each puff pastry sheet into a thin 10×12 inch rectangle, ensuring even thickness.
  4. Apply egg wash generously to the first pastry sheet, then artfully distribute rosemary, fennel seeds, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan across the surface.
  5. Carefully overlay the second pastry sheet, brushing with additional egg wash and sprinkling remaining herb and cheese toppings.
  6. Use a rolling pin to gently compress the layered pastry, ensuring ingredients adhere securely.
  7. Slice the pastry into precise 1/2-inch strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter for uniform cheese straws.
  8. Twist each strip by gripping both ends and rotating in opposite directions, creating elegant spiral shapes.
  9. Arrange twisted straws on prepared baking sheets and briefly chill for 10 minutes to maintain structural integrity.
  10. Bake for 8-10 minutes, carefully rotate straws, then continue baking 4-6 minutes until achieving a golden, crisp appearance.
  11. Remove from oven and serve warm for maximum flavor and crunch.

Notes

  • Prep Ahead: Assemble cheese straws up to a day in advance and store them refrigerated, separated by parchment paper to maintain their crispy texture.
  • Gluten-Free Swap: Replace puff pastry with gluten-free puff pastry or make a homemade version using almond flour for a celiac-friendly option.
  • Flavor Variation: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano instead of rosemary, or swap Parmesan for aged cheddar to create unique taste profiles.
  • Storage Tip: Keep leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, recrisping in a 350°F oven for 3-4 minutes before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-16 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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