Crispy Sourdough Cheese Twists

Crispy Sourdough Cheese Twists are the kind of snack that disappears faster than you expect. First, they deliver bold cheesy flavor. Then, they surprise you with an irresistible crunch and tender center. Made with sourdough discard, these twists turn something simple into something truly special.

While they look bakery-worthy, they are surprisingly easy to make at home. Plus, the combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates rich flavor and beautiful golden edges. Meanwhile, garlic and Italian seasoning add warmth without overpowering the cheese.

Interestingly, bread twists have long been popular in European baking, where dough is shaped to maximize crisp edges. Similarly, sourdough baking has been passed down for generations as a way to reduce waste and enhance flavor. Because of that, this recipe feels both modern and timeless.

Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side, these cheese twists fit every occasion. Most importantly, they bring comfort, crunch, and just the right amount of indulgence.

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 cup sourdough starter discard
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
½ tsp fine sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Mix the dough:
First, add sourdough discard, flour, cheddar, mozzarella, melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to a bowl. Then, stir until a shaggy dough forms and no dry flour remains.

2. Roll and shape:
Next, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a thin rectangle, about ⅛-inch thick. Afterward, cut into long strips and gently twist each strip several times.

3. Bake until crisp:
Then, arrange the twists on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 16–20 minutes, until deeply golden and crisp on the edges.

4. Cool and serve:
Finally, let the cheese twists cool for 5 minutes to set their crunch. Serve warm for best texture and flavor.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Control the crunch: Rolling the dough thinner ensures extra crispiness. However, keeping it slightly thicker yields a softer center with crunchy edges.
• Boost cheese flavor: Using freshly shredded cheese melts more evenly and enhances both texture and taste.
• Bake evenly: Rotating the pan halfway through baking helps achieve uniform browning and prevents over-dark edges.