Introduction

Prosciutto and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a delicious and easy appetizer perfect for any gathering. With a flaky puff pastry base, savory prosciutto, and creamy cheese rolled up together, these pinwheels are not only tasty but also visually appealing. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for parties or casual snacks. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated soirée or having a cozy movie night, these pinwheels will surely impress your guests.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Puff pastry – 1 sheet, thawed
Prosciutto – 4 ounces, sliced
Cheese (such as Fontina or Gruyère) – 4 ounces, shredded
Egg – 1, beaten (for egg wash)
Black pepper – to taste
Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) – optional, for garnish

Prep Time

Preparation for this recipe takes about 15 minutes. This quick prep time allows you to spend more time enjoying the dish with your friends and family.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is approximately 20 minutes. The total time to make these pinwheels, including prep and cooking, is around 35 minutes. This recipe yields about 24 pinwheels, making it an ideal choice for serving a crowd.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure that it reaches the right temperature for baking the pinwheels.

Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Place the defrosted puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out gently to smooth any creases and make it slightly larger.

Add the Prosciutto

Lay slices of prosciutto evenly over the entire puff pastry, covering it to ensure every bite has flavor.

Spread the Cheese

Spread your choice of cheese, such as mozzarella or Gruyère, evenly on top of the prosciutto, leaving a small border around the edges.

Sprinkle with Seasonings

Optionally, sprinkle some freshly cracked pepper and herbs like thyme over the cheese for added flavor.

Roll the Pastry

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log or cylinder shape, ensuring that the filling stays inside.

Cut the Pinwheels

Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled pastry into equal pieces, approximately 1 inch thick, to form your pinwheels.

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pinwheels from sticking.

Arrange the Pinwheels

Place the pinwheel slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart so they have room to expand while baking.

Brush with Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat an egg and brush the egg wash over the tops of the pinwheels to achieve a golden brown finish during baking.

Bake the Pinwheels

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the pinwheels for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the pinwheels from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm for the best taste.

Notes

Pastry Preparation

Ensure that your puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold before rolling it out.

Custom Filling Ideas

Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties or add ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels make great appetizers or party snacks and can be served with dipping sauces like mustard or aioli.

Storage Tips

Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Cook techniques

Preparing Puff Pastry

To achieve the best results with puff pastry, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture. Roll it out gently on a floured surface to prevent sticking and maintain its layers.

Layering Ingredients

When layering your prosciutto and cheese, ensure even distribution across the pastry. This helps in achieving a balanced flavor in every bite and allows for even cooking.

Rolling Pinwheels

When rolling the pastry, start from one end and roll tightly but not too firmly, to maintain the puffiness of the pastry. Use a sharp knife to slice them evenly for consistent cooking.

Baking Technique

Bake pinwheels at a high temperature to encourage the puff pastry to rise beautifully. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pinwheels warm for the best taste. They pair well with dips or salads for a delightful appetizer.

FAQ

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute with cheeses like mozzarella, goat cheese, or cheddar based on your preference.

Can these pinwheels be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels and refrigerate them before baking. Bake them when ready to serve for a fresh taste.

What can I serve with the pinwheels?

These pinwheels pair well with a variety of dips such as marinara, garlic aioli, or a fresh green salad.

Can I freeze the pinwheels?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked pinwheels. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I know when they are done baking?

The pinwheels are done when they are golden brown and puffed up. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Conclusion

The prosciutto and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a delightful appetizer that perfectly combines savory flavors with a flaky texture. They are easy to prepare and an excellent addition to any gathering or celebration. With their rich taste and elegant appearance, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Combine fresh spinach and creamy feta cheese for a vegetarian twist that retains the flaky goodness of puff pastry.

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Use smoked salmon and cream cheese for a luxurious option that pairs well with dill and lemon zest.

Mushroom and Gruyère Puff Pastry Rolls

Sautéed mushrooms mixed with Gruyère cheese create an earthy and rich flavor, perfect for a cozy gathering.

Turkey and Cranberry Pinwheels

For a festive touch, combine turkey slices with cranberry sauce and cream cheese, offering a sweet and savory bite.

Caprese Puff Pastry Bites

Layer fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes for a refreshing and vibrant appetizer that highlights classic Italian flavors.