Save 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 love making these star-shaped pinwheels for gatherings because they are simple to prepare and always a crowd pleaser.
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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
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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 My family enjoys gathering around the table sharing these pinwheels especially during holiday celebrations
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Notes
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 
These pesto pinwheels add a delightful touch to any party spread and can be adapted with your favorite fillings
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I create the star shape on the pinwheels?
Make five evenly spaced cuts around each sliced pinwheel’s edge using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, then gently pull each tip outward to form a star.
- → Can I use homemade pesto for the filling?
Yes, homemade basil pesto works perfectly and adds fresh herb flavors to the pinwheels.
- → What is the best way to bake these pinwheels evenly?
Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 200°C (400°F) for 16-18 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- → Are there suitable variations for the filling?
Try swapping basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or olive tapenade to explore different flavor profiles.
- → How should I store leftovers if not served immediately?
Store cooled pinwheels in an airtight container and gently reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes before serving.
