Irresistibly Cheesy Pesto Pinwheels: The Ultimate Party Snack!

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Rest Time 30 mins

Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Cooking Method: Baking

Courses: Appetizer

Difficulty: Beginner

Cooking Temp: 400 F

Servings: 12

Calories: 180 kcal

Description

These Pesto Pinwheels are a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines the rich flavors of homemade or store-bought pesto with creamy cheese and buttery puff pastry. Whether you're hosting a party, packing a lunchbox, or simply craving a savory treat, these pinwheels are quick to make and impossible to resist. With their vibrant green swirls and gooey melted cheese, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy them anytime!

Ingredients

1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed according to package instructions)
1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 10x12 inches.

Step 2: Add the Filling

3
Spread an even layer of pesto over the entire surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
4
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the pesto.
5
If desired, sprinkle garlic powder for added depth of flavor.

Step 3: Roll and Chill

6
Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the puff pastry jelly-roll style.
7
Wrap the rolled dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm it up. This will help prevent the pinwheels from losing shape during baking.

Step 4: Slice and Bake

8
Remove the chilled dough from the fridge and slice it into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
9
Place the pinwheels cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
10
Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake

11
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.
12
Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Keywords: Pesto Pinwheels, Appetizer, Easy Snacks, Cheesy Goodness, Party Food, Quick And Easy, Vegetarian, Puff Pastry