Ingredients

• 1  17-1/4 oz.- pkg. prepared frozen puff pastry, thawed in refrigerator
• 1  lightly beaten egg white
•   Paprika
•   Cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1  cup finely shredded sharp cheese such as aged cheddar, Asiago, or Parmesan (about 4 oz.)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degree F. Open one sheet of puff pastry on a cutting board. Brush the surface lightly with some of the beaten egg white. Sprinkle lightly with paprika and a touch of cayenne pepper, if desired. Sprinkle surface with 1/2 cup of cheese to evenly cover entire surface. Roll a floured rolling pin over cheese to gently press the cheese into the puff pastry.

Cut the puff pastry into long 1/2-inch-wide strips; gently twist each strip several times. Lay strips 1 inch apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining sheet of puff pastry, egg white, paprika, pepper, and cheese. Bake in the 375 degree F. oven for 12 to 14 minutes oruntil the straws are golden in color. Cool on wire rack. Best served the same day but can be stored overnight in an airtight container. Makes 36 appetizer servings.