These Air Fryer Puff Pastry Twists are buttery, flaky, crispy, and packed with savory flavor in every bite. Made with golden puff pastry wrapped around a delicious filling of cheese, ham, bacon, or vegetables, these twisted pastries cook beautifully in the air fryer with a crisp exterior and tender layered center. They make an excellent appetizer, snack, brunch item, or party food that looks impressive while being surprisingly simple to prepare.
The air fryer transforms puff pastry into perfectly crisp and golden twists in much less time than a traditional oven. The circulating hot air creates beautifully puffed layers with a rich buttery texture while keeping the filling warm and flavorful inside. Because the pastries cook quickly and evenly, they develop a bakery-style finish without becoming greasy or soggy.
One of the best parts of this recipe is how customizable it can be. You can fill the pastry twists with mozzarella, cream cheese, pepperoni, spinach, bacon, turkey, ham, or even sweet fillings like cinnamon sugar and Nutella. The twisted design not only looks elegant but also helps hold the filling securely inside while creating extra flaky layers that crisp up beautifully during cooking.
These puff pastry twists are best served warm right out of the air fryer when the layers are crisp and the filling is melty. Pair them with marinara sauce, garlic butter, ranch dressing, or spicy aioli for dipping. Whether you are preparing a quick snack, holiday appetizer, or brunch centerpiece, these flaky air fryer pastries are guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Servings: 8 twists
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Twists
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits or diced ham
- ¼ cup finely diced bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Optional Toppings
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped parsley
- Garlic butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour a clean surface and unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. Roll it gently to smooth the folds while keeping a rectangular shape.
Step 2: Add the Filling
Spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese over half of the pastry sheet. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, bacon or ham, diced peppers, and Italian seasoning evenly over the cream cheese.
Step 3: Fold and Slice
Fold the empty half of the pastry over the filling side to create a layered rectangle. Press lightly to seal.
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into 1-inch strips.
Step 4: Twist the Pastry
Take each strip and gently twist it several times. Place the twists onto parchment paper or a lightly greased air fryer tray.
Step 5: Egg Wash
Whisk together the egg and water. Brush the tops of the pastry twists with the egg wash for a golden glossy finish.
Step 6: Air Fry
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (177°C) for 3 minutes.
Arrange the pastry twists in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Remove carefully and allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Air Fryer Settings
| Air Fryer Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Basket Air Fryer | 350°F (177°C) | 10–12 mins |
| Oven-Style Air Fryer | 345°F (174°C) | 12–14 mins |
| Mini Puff Pastry Twists | 340°F (171°C) | 8–10 mins |
Nutritional Facts (Per Twist)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 38mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
Tips for Best Results
- Keep puff pastry cold for easier twisting and flakier layers.
- Do not overfill the pastry or the filling may leak during cooking.
- Leave space between twists so hot air circulates evenly.
- Use parchment paper with holes designed for air fryers to prevent sticking.
- Brush with garlic butter immediately after cooking for extra flavor.
- For sweeter twists, replace savory fillings with cinnamon sugar or chocolate spread.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 325°F for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.
