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.
This recipe always makes my gatherings extra special thanks to its fun shape and rich flavors.
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
- Preheat:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 25 x 30 cm (10 x 12 inches).
- Spread pesto:
- Evenly spread the basil pesto over the pastry leaving a 1 cm (1/2 inch) border all around.
- Sprinkle cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the pesto.
- Roll pastry:
- Starting from the longer side tightly roll up the pastry into a log.
- Slice:
- Using a sharp knife slice the log into 16 even pieces.
- Shape stars:
- 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.
- Brush egg wash:
- In a small bowl whisk together the egg yolk and milk brush the tops of the pinwheels with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle pine nuts:
- Sprinkle with pine nuts if using.
- Bake:
- Bake for 16–18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and serve:
- Cool slightly garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Pin 
My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy these festive pinwheels together during special occasions.
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.
Pin These pinwheels make a delightful appetizer that is both visually appealing and delicious.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pastry is best for these pinwheels?
Flaky puff pastry works best to achieve a light and crisp texture that puffs nicely during baking.
- → Can I use homemade pesto for the filling?
Absolutely! Homemade basil pesto adds fresh, vibrant flavor and complements the Parmesan beautifully.
- → How do I create the star shape with the pinwheels?
After slicing the rolled pastry log, make five evenly spaced cuts around each piece's edge, then gently pull each tip outward to form a star.
- → Are pine nuts necessary for the garnish?
Pine nuts are optional but add a pleasant crunch and complement the basil pesto's nutty notes.
- → What are some serving suggestions for these pinwheels?
Serve warm with fresh basil leaves. They pair well with crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio and make great festive appetizers.
- → Can these pinwheels be made ahead of time?
They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly in a hot oven without losing their crispness.