Save It Flaky puff pastry pinwheels filled with vibrant basil pesto and nutty Parmesan, shaped into cheerful stars& perfect as a festive appetizer or party snack.
I have made these pinwheels several times for family gatherings and they are always a hit everyone loves the star shape and fresh taste.
Ingredients
- Dough: 1 sheet (about 250 g) puff pastry, thawed
- Filling: 4 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Filling: 40 g (about 1/2 cup) finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Filling: 1 egg yolk
- Filling: 1 tbsp milk
- Garnish (optional): 1 tbsp pine nuts, lightly toasted
- Garnish (optional): Fresh basil leaves, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 25 x 30 cm (10 x 12 inches).
- Step 3:
- Evenly spread the basil pesto over the pastry leaving a 1 cm (1/2 inch) border all around.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the pesto.
- Step 5:
- Starting from the longer side tightly roll up the pastry into a log.
- Step 6:
- Using a sharp knife slice the log into 16 even pieces.
- Step 7:
- Lay each slice flat onto the prepared baking sheet To create star shapes use the tip of a small sharp knife or kitchen scissors to make five evenly spaced cuts around the edge of each pinwheel then gently pull each tip outward to form a star.
- Step 8:
- In a small bowl whisk together the egg yolk and milk Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the egg wash.
- Step 9:
- Sprinkle with pine nuts if using.
- Step 10:
- Bake for 16–18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Step 11:
- Cool slightly garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Save It Watching my kids pull the stars apart and dip them in sauce has become a cherished family moment.
Notes
Pair these pinwheels with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio for the perfect appetizer experience.
Required Tools
Rolling pin, baking sheet, parchment paper, sharp knife or kitchen scissors, pastry brush, small bowl.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, eggs, pine nuts (tree nuts), and cheese (milk). Always check labels for pesto and pastry to ensure no hidden allergens.
Save It These flavorful pinwheels make appetizer time fun and memorable every time.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of pastry is used?
Flaky puff pastry sheets are used for a light and airy texture that crisps up beautifully when baked.
- → Can I substitute the basil pesto?
Yes, sun-dried tomato pesto or olive tapenade offer delicious alternatives to the classic basil pesto filling.
- → How are the star shapes created?
After slicing the rolled pastry log, small cuts are made evenly around each piece’s edge, then the tips are gently pulled outward to form star shapes.
- → Is there a recommended serving suggestion?
Serve warm with fresh basil leaves, and consider pairing with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio for a complete appetizer experience.
- → Can the pinwheels be prepared ahead?
These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a hot oven for a few minutes if prepared earlier.