Prepare the Puff Pastry:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: If using store-bought puff pastry, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases. If homemade, roll the dough into a thin rectangle.
3. Cut the Stars: Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut the puff pastry into star shapes. If you don’t have a star cutter, a round cutter works just as well, or you can cut the pastry into squares or triangles for a different presentation.
4. Add the Cheese Filling: Place a small spoonful of shredded cheddar cheese in the center of each star. Be careful not to overfill them, as the cheese will melt and spread during baking.

Create the Egg Wash:

5. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg with a teaspoon of water. Brush this egg wash over the edges of the pastry stars to ensure a golden, shiny finish.
6. Top with Parmesan and Parsley: Sprinkle a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each star. If desired, add a pinch of fresh parsley or other herbs for flavor and decoration.

Bake the Pastry Stars:

7. Bake: Place the stars on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Cool: Once baked, remove the stars from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. The pastry will be hot and the cheese will be bubbling.