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I whipped up these Blackberry Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Twists for my girl's wedding shower and now everyone begs me for them. There's something downright magical when you pair tangy goat cheese with sweet blackberry jam wrapped in buttery pastry. The tiny hint of lemon thyme sugar gets folks wondering what makes them so special. My house smells absolutely wonderful when these bad boys are cooking.
These Will Change Your Baking Game
You'll thank me later - these twists will quickly become your favorite treat to bake. I turn to them whenever I need to wow people without sweating in the kitchen for hours. You just can't beat that mix of smooth cheese and fruity jam tucked inside flaky layers. And that sprinkle of herby citrus sugar on top? It transforms them from yummy to mind-blowing.
Round Up These Simple Ingredients
- Blackberries: I use ones from my backyard when I can, but thawed frozen berries work great too.
- Puff Pastry: This ready-made treasure makes everything so much easier.
- Goat Cheese: Make sure it's nice and creamy for smooth spreading.
- Sugar: Plain granulated does the job for both the jam and topping.
- Lemons: Always grate them just before using for the freshest flavor punch.
- Thyme: Just grab a couple sprigs to mix with your sugar.
- Egg: You'll need one for that beautiful golden crust.
Let's Get Baking
- Whip Up Your Jam
- I cook blackberries with sugar and a bit of water in my favorite saucepan. After about 30 minutes it gets thick and jammy. It smells unbelievable. Cool it down while moving on to other steps.
- Prep Your Dough
- Let your puff pastry sit out for roughly 30 minutes. Never try unfolding it while it's still frozen or you'll end up with cracks.
- Stack Your Layers
- Flatten out the pastry then spread the soft goat cheese and your homemade jam. Slice into strips then fold and twist each piece gently. Arrange them on your baking tray.
- Finish With Flair
- Combine lemon zest fresh thyme and sugar in a small dish. Brush some beaten egg on your twists then scatter that fragrant sugar mixture over them.
- Bake To Perfection
- I cook mine at 375°F keeping an eye on them for about 18 minutes until they turn golden brown. Let them cool slightly before diving in.
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Tasty Ways To Change It Up
Sometimes I'll grab cream cheese for a more subtle flavor or use different berries depending what's growing. Store bought jam works in a pinch when you're rushed. Last month I tried making mini versions in my muffin pan and they looked so cute. You can really go wild with your own tweaks.
How To Share Them Perfectly
My trick is cooling these just enough so they don't fall apart. That's when you'll taste all the flavors at their best. They pair amazingly with bubbly for get-togethers or alongside afternoon tea with your friends. They fit right in at casual snack time or fancy dinner parties.
Shortcuts Worth Taking
When company's coming I prep everything the night before. Stick them in the fridge and bake fresh when needed. Just remember these goodies taste best eaten the same day you make them. Though honestly they rarely stick around that long at my place.
Common Questions Sorted
Folks who follow my blog always ask about these twists. Yes, jarred jam works great if you're in a hurry. For my vegan pals I swap in non-dairy cream cheese and plant-based pastry. Want that perfect crispy texture? Always cool them on a wire rack before serving.
Great For Any Time Of Year
During hot months I bring these poolside with cold pink wine and fresh fruit. In autumn they go wonderfully with hot spiced apple juice. At our Christmas gathering last year they vanished within minutes. These twists just fit right into any season in my world.
Tasty Pairings To Try
I love putting these on my big wooden platter next to some hard cheeses, crunchy nuts and seasonal fruits. When friends drop by I'll add them to a spread with my homemade spinach dip and thin-sliced ham. Everyone raves about how the sweet and savory flavors play together.
Fun Flavor Swaps
- Try Different Cheese: I sometimes use cream cheese when I want something lighter that kids love too.
- Switch The Herbs: Fresh basil or rosemary during summer months creates a totally different vibe.
- Change Your Fruit: I grab whatever berries catch my eye at the farmers market.
- Go Hearty: Try them with my slow-cooked onions instead of jam - they're simply amazing.
Host Like A Pro
My best tip for parties? Make these a day early and keep them chilled. Toss them in the oven right as your first guests knock on the door. The amazing smell of warm pastry and fruit will make everyone feel welcome. I always put cute napkins nearby for easy grabbing.
Keeping Them Fresh
These treats taste best straight from the oven but any leftovers can stay wrapped tight on your counter for about a day. To refresh them just warm in a 325°F oven for a few minutes. Don't use the microwave though - it'll just make your pastry all soggy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare the jam in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the blackberry jam ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temp before using it in the twists.
- → Why do I need to thaw puff pastry?
Thawed puff pastry handles and rolls out much easier. Just don’t let it get too warm or it might stick.
- → Can I replace the jam with store-bought?
You can totally use store-bought blackberry jam instead. Around 1 cup should be enough.
- → Why is the dough twisted and stretched?
This step gives the pastries their signature shape and texture. It also helps them bake evenly.
- → What does the egg wash do?
The egg wash gives the pastries that golden brown glow and helps the sugar stick on top.
Conclusion
These puff pastry twists are filled with tangy goat cheese and fruity blackberry jam. They're topped with a sweet and tangy lemon-thyme sugar for a delectable finish.