Easy Blue Cheese, Walnut and Thyme Puff Pastry Twirl

Did You Know 72% of Home Cooks Avoid Puff Pastry Because They Think It’s Too Fussy?

If you’re part of that statistic, let me introduce you to the most forgiving, crowd-pleasing puff pastry creation you’ll ever make: the Blue Cheese, Walnut and Thyme Pull Apart Puff Pastry Twirl. This golden, flaky masterpiece is here to shatter every misconception about working with puff pastry. No precision folding, no intimidating layers—just buttery, cheesy, herby bliss that practically assembles itself.

Picture this: crisp layers coiled around tangy blue cheese, toasty walnuts, and fragrant thyme, pulling apart in steaming ribbons straight from the oven. It’s the kind of dish that looks like you fussed for hours, but secretly comes together in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or treating yourself to a savory indulgence, this twirl is your new secret weapon.

Why This Recipe Will Steal the Spotlight

There’s something magical about the way puff pastry transforms in the oven—expanding into delicate, shattering layers that cradle bold flavors. The Blue Cheese, Walnut and Thyme Pull Apart Puff Pastry Twirl takes that magic and elevates it with a trio of ingredients that sing in harmony:

• Blue Cheese: Its creamy sharpness mellows as it bakes, leaving pockets of umami richness.
• Walnuts: Toasted for depth, they add a satisfying crunch that contrasts the pastry’s lightness.
• Thyme: Those tiny leaves infuse every bite with earthy, aromatic warmth.

Best of all? This recipe embraces imperfection. Unlike fussy pastries that demand precision, here, rough edges and uneven swirls only add to the rustic charm. It’s the ultimate “more is more” situation—pile on the filling, twist with abandon, and watch it turn golden and glorious.

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Blue Cheese, Walnut & Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl

There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of buttery puff pastry baking in the oven—especially when it’s swirled with rich blue cheese, toasty walnuts, and fragrant thyme. This pull-apart twirl is the kind of recipe that feels fancy but comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or a cozy night in with a glass of wine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 sheet of all-butter puff pastry – Thawed but still cold. I always opt for the best-quality puff pastry I can find—it makes all the difference in flavor and flakiness.
• 100g crumbled blue cheese – A creamy, tangy variety like Stilton or Gorgonzola works beautifully here. If you’re not a blue cheese fan, a sharp cheddar would be a lovely substitute.
• 50g chopped walnuts – Lightly toasted for extra depth of flavor. The crunch they add is irresistible!
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves – Stripped from the stems. Thyme and blue cheese are a match made in heaven, but rosemary would also work if that’s what you have on hand.
• 2 tbsp melted butter – For brushing the pastry. It adds a gorgeous golden finish.
• 1 tbsp honey – Just a drizzle to balance the saltiness of the cheese. Trust me, it’s the secret touch that ties everything together.
• Pinch of sea salt & black pepper – To taste. The cheese is salty, so go easy on the extra salt.

Let’s Get Baking

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. There’s nothing worse than pastry sticking—parchment is our best friend here!

1. Roll out the pastry. Lightly flour your surface and gently roll the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle, about 30cm x 20cm. Don’t overwork it—just smooth out any seams.
2. Layer on the goodness. Evenly scatter the crumbled blue cheese, toasted walnuts, and thyme leaves over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Drizzle lightly with honey—just enough to glisten.
3. Roll it up. Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the pastry into a log, like a Swiss roll. Seal the edge with a little water or melted butter to keep it from unraveling.
4. Slice and twist. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 2cm-thick rounds. Place each round flat on the baking tray, spacing them slightly apart. Now, here’s the fun part—gently press down on each round to fan them out slightly, creating a little twirl.

At this point, your kitchen should already smell incredible, but we’re not done yet! Brush each twirl with melted butter—this will give them that irresistible golden sheen—and pop them in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until puffed and gloriously golden.

Conclusion

There you have it—a show-stopping Blue Cheese, Walnut, and Thyme Pull-Apart Puff Pastry Twirl that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. With its flaky layers, rich blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and fragrant thyme, this dish is perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself to something special. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a holiday gathering, or just craving a savory snack, this recipe delivers on flavor and wow-factor every time.

Now it’s your turn! Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out. Did you add your own twist? Share your creations with us in the comments below or tag us on social media—we’d love to see your culinary masterpieces. And if you’re hungry for more, check out our other savory pastry recipes for more delicious inspiration!

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of blue cheese?

Absolutely! While blue cheese adds a bold, tangy flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese, feta, or even a sharp cheddar if you prefer a milder taste. Just keep in mind that the texture and meltability may vary slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the puff pastry twirl up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. For best results, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to restore the crispiness.

Can I freeze this pastry?

You can freeze the unbaked twirl for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic and foil, then bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Baked leftovers can also be frozen, though the texture may be slightly less flaky upon reheating.

What can I serve with this puff pastry twirl?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup for a light meal. It’s also fantastic on its own as an appetizer or snack!