Halloween Puff Pastry Snakes

Puff Pastry Snakes are a fun, savory snack made from flaky puff pastry, sharp Parmesan cheese, and crunchy sesame seeds. Shaped like playful little snakes, they’re perfect for Halloween parties, themed birthdays, or even as a quirky appetizer at your next gathering. Kids and adults alike will enjoy both making and eating these delightful bites!

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• These Puff Pastry Snakes are crispy, cheesy, and just a little bit cheeky.
• They come together in under 30 minutes.
• No fancy ingredients required—just pantry staples.
• Perfect for parties, lunchbox surprises, or themed events.
• Customizable with different spices, seeds, or cheeses.

Whether you're entertaining kids or impressing adults, these charming treats deliver on flavor and creativity.

What Are Puff Pastry Snakes?

Puff Pastry Snakes are a whimsical take on cheese straws or savory puff pastry twists. Inspired by finger foods and party appetizers, these "snakes" are formed by coiling puff pastry strips into spirals and decorating them to look like tiny serpents—eyes and all! Despite their playful look, they’re rooted in classic European puff pastry snacks, just with a fun twist.

Pro Tips for the Best Puff Pastry Snakes

• Use cold puff pastry: It’s easier to shape and gives better rise in the oven.
• Don’t skip the egg wash: It helps the sesame seeds stick and gives a beautiful golden finish.
• Press lightly after folding: Just enough to seal the cheese in but not so much that you flatten the layers.
• Try cheese variations: Swap Parmesan for aged cheddar or pecorino.
• Serve warm: That’s when they’re at their flakiest and most flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape the snakes and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 8 hours before baking.

What kind of puff pastry should I use?

Use store-bought, all-butter puff pastry if possible—it delivers the flakiest texture and richest flavor.

How do I make these spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the Parmesan mix for a kick.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Try shredded Gruyère, Emmental, or even a spicy pepper jack.

What can I use instead of sesame seeds?

Try poppy seeds, nigella seeds, or just a little extra Parmesan on top.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes! They're not spicy by default, and kids love the fun shapes—just avoid peppercorn eyes for very young children.

How to Store

Allow the Puff Pastry Snakes to cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to regain their crispiness.

How to Freeze

You can freeze the shaped, unbaked snakes on a tray. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Baked leftovers can also be frozen, but may lose a bit of their crisp texture when reheated.

How to Make Halloween Puff Pastry Snakes

Step 1

Step 1

Unroll the puff pastry on your work surface and sprinkle it with Parmesan, pepper, and salt.

Unroll the puff pastry on your work surface and sprinkle it with Parmesan, pepper, and salt.

Step 2

Step 2

Fold the pastry in half to form a rectangle and press lightly with your hands.

Fold the pastry in half to form a rectangle and press lightly with your hands.

Step 3

Step 3

Cut the rectangle into strips about 1 cm thick.

Cut the rectangle into strips about 1 cm thick.

Step 4

Step 4

Roll up the strips from both ends and shape the snakes in different ways.

Roll up the strips from both ends and shape the snakes in different ways.

Step 5

Step 5

Transfer them to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Transfer them to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Step 6

Step 6

Make the eyes of the snakes using the peppercorns. Bake at 200°C/392°F for 20 minutes.

Make the eyes of the snakes using the peppercorns. Bake at 200°C/392°F for 20 minutes.

Step 7

Step 7

Serve the puff pastry snakes and enjoy!

Serve the puff pastry snakes and enjoy!