Cheddar Twists
Cheddar Twists are flaky, cheesy pastries with a golden crust, perfect for snacks or parties, offering savory flavor and crispy texture with optional seed or cheese toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, sugar, undissolved yeast, and salt.
- Heat water and evaporated milk until very warm (120° to 130°F). Stir into the dry ingredients.
- Stir in the grated sharp Cheddar cheese and add enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Cover the dough and let rest on the floured surface for 10 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 14-inch rope.
- Fold each rope in half and pinch the ends to seal.
- Twist each rope two to three times.
- Place the twisted ropes on a large greased baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size.
- Brush the risen dough with the egg white mixture (egg white beaten with 1 Tbsp. water).
- Sprinkle with poppy seed, sesame seed, or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Bake at 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the baking sheet and let cool on wire racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sharp or extra-sharp Cheddar cheese. If you don’t have RapidRise yeast, you can substitute with active dry yeast but allow for longer rising times. Ensure your liquids are warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast. If the dough feels too sticky, add flour gradually until you achieve a soft consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Cheddar Twists make a delightful snack or appetizer and pair beautifully with soups or salads, such as Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad. For an extra touch, serve them with a dipping sauce like marinara or a creamy cheese dip. They’re also a fantastic addition to a cheese platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cheddar Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Twists contains roughly 181 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 587mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on the cheese's moisture content.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or insufficient warmth. Ensure that your yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date. If the dough remains flat, try placing it in a warmer area, such as near a preheated oven, to encourage rising.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just allow it to come to room temperature and rise before shaping and baking. This can enhance the flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).