Ingredients

1 package frozen puff pastry , thawed
1 egg , beaten
1 tablespoon cold water
3/4 cup blue cheese , crumbled
1 1/4 cups hazelnuts , toasted , skin removed and diced , divided
2 tablespoons shallots , chopped
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup dried mission figs , chopped
1/2 cup ruby port
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Hazelnut fig twists are a delicious and savory pastry that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as an indulgent snack. The buttery puff pastry is filled with a flavorful mixture of blue cheese, hazelnuts, and shallots, and twisted into a beautiful braid. The accompanying fig compote is made with ruby port, thyme, and additional hazelnuts, adding a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the savory filling. These twists are easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2.Unfold the thawed pastry sheets and cut each in half lengthwise.
3.In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush each strip of pastry dough with the egg mixture.
4.In a food processor, pulse the blue cheese, 1 cup of hazelnuts, and shallots together in a food processor until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined.
5.Divide the cheese mixture between the pastry strips, spreading it in an even layer down the center of each strip.
6.Fold the pastry strips over to encase the filling, pressing the edges firmly to seal.
7.Using a sharp knife, cut each strip into twists about 1 inch thick.
8.Transfer the twists onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
9.Meanwhile, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped figs, port, thyme, and remaining hazelnuts to the pan, and simmer for 10 minutes until the mixture thickens and the figs are tender.
10.Serve the hazelnut fig twists warm with the fig compote on the side.

PROS

The savory hazelnut and blue cheese filling pairs perfectly with the sweet fig compote, making these twists a crowd-pleasing option for breakfast or as a snack.

The twists are easy to make and can be prepared in advance.

CONS

These pastries are high in calories and fat due to the butter, cheese, and puff pastry.

Should be enjoyed as a treat in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This pastry is not particularly healthy, but it can be enjoyed as an indulgent treat in moderation.
The hazelnuts in this recipe are high in healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.