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Pesto and Parmesan Pinwheels Recipe

4.8 from 137 reviews

Delicious and easy-to-make Pesto and Parmesan Pinwheels featuring flaky puff pastry rolled with savory pesto and Parmesan cheese, baked to golden perfection. A perfect appetizer or snack that combines vibrant flavors with a crispy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Pinwheels

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
  • 4 tablespoons jarred pesto (divided)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Lay the sheet of thawed puff pastry out on a clean surface and carefully cut it vertically down the center, creating two equal rectangles.
  2. Spread Pesto and Sprinkle Cheese: Lightly spread a thin layer of pesto evenly over the surface of each puff pastry piece. Then sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese on each piece to ensure every bite has a cheesy, flavorful hit.
  3. Roll and Chill: Roll each piece horizontally into a tight jelly roll, then wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up, or they can be chilled for up to two days to develop flavors.
  4. Slice the Rolls: Remove the rolls from the fridge and unwrap the plastic. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into approximately one-inch thick rounds to create the pinwheels.
  5. Bake the Pinwheels: Arrange the sliced pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 9 minutes or until they turn golden brown and puff up beautifully.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the pinwheels cool slightly on a rack before serving. Enjoy warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before working with it to prevent cracking.
  • Use fresh or good quality jarred pesto for the best flavor.
  • Parmesan cheese can be freshly grated for a richer taste.
  • These pinwheels can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container; they reheat well in the oven for a crispy finish.

Keywords: pesto pinwheels, parmesan appetizers, puff pastry snacks, easy appetizers, Italian finger food