If you’re looking for a snack that’s both elegant and incredibly easy to whip up, the Prosciutto and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe is a true game-changer. These bite-sized delights combine flaky, buttery puff pastry with the rich saltiness of prosciutto and the gooey goodness of melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for parties, quick appetizers, or even a flavorful snack anytime, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into irresistible pinwheels that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Prosciutto and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe just right. Each element plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of texture and flavor—from the crispiness of the baked pastry to the savory, melty cheese and delicate smoky prosciutto.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): Provides the wonderfully flaky and buttery foundation for the pinwheels.
- 4 oz prosciutto (thinly sliced): Adds savory saltiness and a tender texture that complements the cheese beautifully.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts perfectly, creating that gooey, stringy texture inside every bite.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Brushed on top to give the pinwheels a gorgeous golden-brown finish.
- Fresh herbs (optional, like basil or thyme): Sprinkle for a fresh, aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
How to Make Prosciutto and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the heat builds, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your pinwheels don’t stick and bake evenly. Setting this up ahead of time makes the final assembly a breeze.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your surface and roll out your thawed puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. This thin layer is essential because it will puff up beautifully while baking, creating those signature layers we all love.
Step 3: Layer the Prosciutto
Evenly spread the thin slices of prosciutto over the surface of the rolled-out pastry. This layer introduces a luxurious, salty kick that pairs seamlessly with the mild cheese.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella and Herbs
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the prosciutto layer. If you’re feeling adventurous, scatter some fresh herbs like basil or thyme on top for an herbal burst that lightens the richness.
Step 5: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the pastry up into a tight log, starting from one edge. Once rolled, slice the log into about 1-inch thick pieces—these will become your perfect pinwheels. The tight roll is what creates those beautiful spirals once baked.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake
Arrange your pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Brush each one with beaten egg to lock in moisture and achieve that golden, shiny crust. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they’re puffed and golden brown.
How to Serve Prosciutto and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishing can elevate your pinwheels to a party favorite. Consider a scattering of freshly chopped parsley or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for a subtle tang that contrasts beautifully with the rich filling.
Side Dishes
These pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be served alongside a crisp green salad or a vibrant tomato and cucumber salad to balance their richness. Offering a refreshing dip such as marinara or pesto also adds an exciting dimension.
Creative Ways to Present
For get-togethers, arrange the pinwheels on a decorative platter around a small bowl of dipping sauce. Alternatively, skewer a few pinwheels with colorful toothpicks to make a playful handheld appetizer that guests can grab effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place them in an airtight container once completely cooled. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days while retaining their delightful texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the pinwheels either baked or unbaked. For unbaked, slice and freeze on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. When frozen, they keep well for up to a month, ready for baking fresh whenever you fancy.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pinwheels on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes. This restores their crisp exterior without drying out the cheesy center.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella offers a perfect melt and mild flavor, feel free to experiment with cheddar, gruyere, or even a mix of cheeses to suit your taste.
Is it necessary to use an egg wash?
The egg wash adds a beautiful golden sheen and helps seal the edges, but if you prefer, you can skip it or substitute with milk for a softer finish.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the prosciutto and add extra cheese or roasted vegetables like thinly sliced bell peppers or spinach for a delicious vegetarian twist.
How thin should I roll the pastry?
Rolling to about 1/8 inch thick is ideal to ensure the pastry puffs up nicely while holding the fillings without becoming soggy or overly thick.
What’s the best way to slice the pinwheels evenly?
Using a sharp serrated knife and ensuring the roll is tight before slicing will give clean, even pinwheels that bake uniformly.
Final Thoughts
The Prosciutto and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe is one of those deliciously simple dishes that makes hosting or snacking feel special. With their flaky texture, melty cheese, and savory prosciutto, these pinwheels are bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe the next time you want to impress your guests or just treat yourself to something truly scrumptious.
Print
Prosciutto and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings (20 pinwheels)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These Prosciutto and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry layered with savory prosciutto, melted mozzarella, and optional fresh herbs. Perfect for parties or snacks, they bake to golden perfection in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 4 oz prosciutto (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Fresh herbs (optional, e.g., basil or thyme)
Finishing
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Roll Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet until it is about 1/8 inch thick to ensure even baking and a crisp texture.
- Layer Prosciutto: Spread the thinly sliced prosciutto evenly over the rolled-out pastry to cover the surface and deliver savory flavor in every bite.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the prosciutto. If desired, scatter fresh herbs like basil or thyme on top for added aromatic flavor.
- Roll and Slice: Tightly roll the pastry sheet up into a log shape. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels to create individual servings.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the pinwheels spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each one with the beaten egg wash to promote a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake: Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown, indicating that they are cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with other melty cheeses like fontina or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Fresh herbs are optional but enhance the aroma and taste; try thyme, basil, or oregano.
- Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
- These pinwheels can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the prosciutto and add roasted vegetables or sun-dried tomatoes.
