Cheesy Mustard Twists: Crispy Flaky Pastry Straws

Prep: 15 minCook: 18 min6 servingsmediumBritish
Cheesy Mustard Twists: Crispy Flaky Pastry Straws

Twisted pastry straws topped with sharp cheddar and parmesan, bound with wholegrain mustard. Baked until golden and crisp, these savory bites offer a satisfying crunch with tangy cheese and mustard flavors. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or addition to a cheese board.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 1 lb flaky pastry, homemade or store-bought
  • ½ cups cheddar cheese, coarsely grated
    gruyere1:1cheesedairy-free

    sharper flavor

    Full guide →
  • 1 ¾ oz parmesan, finely grated
    pecorino romano1:1cheesedairy-free

    saltier alternative

    Full guide →
  • 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard
    dijon mustard1:1condiment

    smoother texture

    Full guide →
  • salt, to taste(optional)
  • black pepper, to taste(optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat oven to 400°F fan/gas 7 and line a large baking sheet with baking paper.

  2. 2

    Roll pastry out to a large rectangle approximately ¼" thick.

  3. 3

    Spread with wholegrain mustard.

  4. 4

    Sprinkle with cheddar and parmesan cheeses.

  5. 5

    Season with salt and pepper.

  6. 6

    Cut pastry into long ¾" strips.

  7. 7

    Twist each strip by lifting one end and twisting until about 3 full twists are formed around.

  8. 8

    Transfer twisted strips to prepared tray.

  9. 9

    Bake until golden and crisp.

  10. 10

    Cool for 5 minutes before serving warm, or cool completely.

Tips

Tip 1

Ensure pastry is chilled before rolling for easier handling and better rise.

Tip 2

Don't overtwist or pastry may tear.

Tip 3

Work quickly when handling pastry to keep it cold.

Good to Know

Storage

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Make Ahead

Assemble and refrigerate twisted straws on baking sheet for up to 2 hours before baking. Bake from chilled state, adding 1-2 minutes to baking time if needed.

Serve With

Serve warm or at room temperature alongside soups, salads, or as part of a cheese course.

Common Mistakes

Watch

Over-twist to avoid pastry tearing and uneven browning.

Watch

Don't let pastry warm up to avoid soggy texture after baking.

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

cheddar
gruyere1:1cheesedairy-free

sharper flavor

Full guide →
parmesan
pecorino romano1:1cheesedairy-free

saltier alternative

Full guide →
cheddar
emmental1:1cheesedairy-free

milder option

Full guide →

General Alternatives

wholegrain mustard
dijon mustard1:1condiment

smoother texture

Full guide →
wholegrain mustard
english mustard0.75:1condiment

spicier heat

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →