Save Pin 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 always enjoyed making these star-shaped pinwheels for family gatherings because they are both fun to shape and a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
- Dough: 1 sheet (about 250 g) puff pastry, thawed
- Filling: 4 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade) 40 g (about 1/2 cup) finely grated Parmesan cheese 1 egg yolk 1 tbsp milk
- Garnish (optional): 1 tbsp pine nuts, lightly toasted 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 Pin Making these pinwheels has become a special tradition with my family especially during holidays.
Notes
Try sun-dried tomato pesto or olive tapenade for a variation. Pair with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio.
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 Pin These pinwheels bring together vibrant flavors with a fun festive shape making them perfect appetizers for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the star shape on the pinwheels?
Make five evenly spaced cuts around each pinwheel’s edge with a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, then gently pull each tip outward to form a star shape.
- → Can I substitute the basil pesto with another spread?
Yes, options like sun-dried tomato pesto or olive tapenade work well and offer different flavor variations.
- → What is the best way to prevent soggy pastry?
Maintain a 1 cm border around the edge when spreading pesto to avoid leakage, and bake until the pastry is golden and puffed to ensure crispness.
- → How should I store leftover pinwheels?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes to restore crispness before serving.
- → Can these pinwheels be made ahead of time?
They are best enjoyed fresh but can be prepped in advance and baked shortly before serving for optimal texture.