Pastry Twists Blackberry Goat Cheese

This flaky, tangy-sweet pastry treat combines the richness of goat cheese with homemade blackberry jam for an elegant snack or dessert. The lemon-thyme sugar adds an unexpected aromatic finish that elevates these twists from simple pastries to something truly special.

I first made these for a spring brunch with friends, and they disappeared within minutes. Now they're my go-to when I need something that looks fancy but doesn't require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry sheets: the store bought kind works perfectly but all butter versions offer superior flavor
• Blackberries: fresh berries provide the best flavor but frozen work well in a pinch
• Water: helps create the proper jam consistency
• Lemon juice: brightens the jam and balances sweetness
• Sugar: regular granulated works best for proper jam setting
• Goat cheese: select a soft, creamy variety for easy spreading and tangy contrast
• Lemon zest: use organic lemons when possible for best flavor and no pesticides
• Raw sugar: the larger crystals provide delightful crunch and caramelization
• Fresh thyme: adds an unexpected herbal note that complements both the berries and cheese
• Egg: creates that beautiful golden shine on the finished pastries

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Jam:

Combine blackberries, water, lemon juice and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Use a potato masher or fork to gently break down the berries while maintaining some texture. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely to room temperature. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.

Prepare the Pastry:

Remove puff pastry sheets from freezer and thaw at room temperature for 20-25 minutes until pliable but still cool. Lightly flour your work surface and roll each sheet into a rectangle approximately 12x10 inches. Handle gently to maintain those delicate layers that create the flakiness.

Add the Fillings:

Spread half the goat cheese in an even layer across each pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges. Drop spoonfuls of the cooled blackberry jam over the goat cheese and gently spread, trying not to mix the two ingredients completely.

Create the Twists:

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut each pastry sheet into 12 equal strips. Carefully fold each strip in half lengthwise with the filling inside. Twist each folded strip while gently stretching it to create the classic twist appearance. Place twists on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each for expansion.

Finishing and Baking:

Whisk the egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush each twist generously with the egg wash. In a small bowl, mix lemon zest, raw sugar, and minced thyme, then sprinkle this mixture over the twists. Bake at 400°F for 16-18 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

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The thyme might seem like an unusual addition to a sweet pastry, but it brings out the floral notes in both the blackberries and lemon. My grandmother always added herbs to her fruit desserts, and this recipe reminds me of summers spent in her kitchen.

Make-Ahead Options

The blackberry jam can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on the day of baking but also allows the flavors to develop more deeply. The assembled twists can be prepared up to the baking stage and frozen on baking sheets. Once frozen solid, transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 3-4 minutes to the baking time.

Flavor Variations

While the blackberry and goat cheese combination is magical, these pastry twists welcome creative adaptations. Try raspberry jam with dark chocolate pieces, or fig preserves with blue cheese for a more savory approach. Apple butter with sharp cheddar offers a classic fall flavor profile. The lemon-thyme sugar can be swapped for cinnamon sugar, lavender sugar, or even a savory herb and salt mixture depending on your filling choices.

Serving Suggestions

These pastry twists shine as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and coffee. For an elegant dessert, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. They also make a lovely addition to a cheese board when made with a more savory flavor profile. If serving for afternoon tea, consider cutting the strips narrower to create more delicate twists that pair beautifully with Earl Grey or chamomile.

Common Queries

→ How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Seal the edges of each pastry twist well by gently pinching before twisting. Avoid overfilling to limit leakage.

→ Can I use store-bought jam instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought blackberry jam works in a pinch, though homemade adds richer flavor and texture.

→ What’s the best way to make the twists crispier?

Bake the twists on a well-preheated oven and cool them on a wire rack for a crisp finish.

→ Can I substitute goat cheese?

Cream cheese or ricotta make good alternatives, though goat cheese offers a tangy contrast to the sweet jam.

→ Is it possible to prepare these ahead of time?

You can make the jam and assemble twists in advance, then bake just before serving for peak freshness.