Star-Shaped Pesto Pinwheels (Printable Version)

Flaky puff pastry layered with basil pesto and Parmesan, baked to golden star-shaped pinwheels perfect for gatherings.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dough

01 - 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (approx. 8.8 oz)

→ Filling

02 - 4 tbsp basil pesto
03 - ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (approx. 1.4 oz)
04 - 1 egg yolk
05 - 1 tbsp milk

→ Garnish (optional)

06 - 1 tbsp pine nuts, lightly toasted
07 - Fresh basil leaves for serving

# How to Make:

01 - Set the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - On a floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a 10x12 inch rectangle.
03 - Evenly spread 4 tablespoons of basil pesto over the pastry, leaving a ½ inch border around the edges.
04 - Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese uniformly over the pesto layer.
05 - Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the pastry into a log shape.
06 - Cut the log into 16 equal slices using a sharp knife.
07 - Place each slice flat on the baking sheet. Using a small knife or kitchen scissors, make five evenly spaced cuts around each piece’s edge and gently pull each tip outward to form a star shape.
08 - Whisk the egg yolk and milk together; brush this mixture over the star-shaped pinwheels.
09 - Sprinkle pine nuts on top if using as garnish.
10 - Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
11 - Allow to cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Easy to make with store-bought puff pastry
  • Perfect festive appetizer or party snack
02 -
  • Try sun-dried tomato pesto or olive tapenade for a variation
  • These pinwheels are best served the day they are made but can be reheated in a hot oven for a few minutes
03 -
  • Make sure to chill the rolled log before slicing for clean star shapes
  • Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to get perfect star edges
Go Back