These prosciutto puff pastry pinwheels are a tasty treat! With crispy layers of pastry wrapped around salty prosciutto, they’re perfect for parties or just a cozy snack.
Making these is a breeze! I love how they bake up golden and flaky. Serve them warm, and watch everyone go back for seconds—just try to save a few for yourself! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry is the star of the show. If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough, but remember to layer it with more butter for a similar texture. I recommend keeping an eye on the cooking time as phyllo can crisp up faster!
Prosciutto: The salty and rich flavor of prosciutto is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, try sliced turkey or chicken breast. For a more plant-based option, roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms can add character.
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for melting! If you prefer something a bit stronger, gruyere or fontina will elevate the flavor nicely. You could also use goat cheese for a tangy kick or sub in dairy-free cheese if you need it dairy-free.
Herbs: Dried thyme or rosemary works well, but you can also try basil or oregano. Fresh herbs add a lovely aroma! I love adding a touch of black pepper or red pepper flakes for some added spice.
How Do I Get My Pinwheels to Stay Rolled?
One common worry is keeping the pinwheels from unraveling during baking. To ensure they stick together, make sure to roll the puff pastry tightly. Use a little of the egg wash on the edge of the pastry to seal the log thoroughly. This simple technique helps keep everything neatly in place!
- Roll as tightly as you can without squishing the filling.
- Seal the edge with egg wash. Press down lightly to secure.
- Chill the rolled log in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps firm it up.
With these tips, your pinwheels will stay beautifully rolled and look just as good as they taste!
How to Make Delicious Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices prosciutto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or fontina or gruyere)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (fresh works too)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- Optional: a pinch of black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 15-18 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes to whip up these delightful pinwheels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to get that pastry nice and puffed up! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet. This helps to smooth out any creases so your pinwheels look extra lovely when baked.
3. Layer the Prosciutto:
Evenly layer the prosciutto slices over the puff pastry. It should cover most of the surface, providing a salty and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheeses.
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese all over the prosciutto. The more cheese, the better – it adds that ooey-gooey goodness! Then, top it with the grated Parmesan cheese and the dried thyme or rosemary.
5. Roll It Up:
Starting at one edge, carefully roll the puff pastry lengthwise into a tight log shape. This will create those beautiful swirls in your pinwheels! Make sure to roll it tightly but gently.
6. Slice the Pinwheels:
With a sharp knife, slice the log into about 1/2 inch thick pinwheels. Place each one cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly!
7. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. This mixture will give your pinwheels that gorgeous golden color as they bake. Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the pinwheels for about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are nice and puffed up and golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving warm. They make a fantastic appetizer or snack that everyone will love!
Enjoy your delightful and flaky prosciutto puff pastry pinwheels! They’re sure to impress at any gathering.
Can I Use Different Fillings in These Pinwheels?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can use spinach and feta, roasted vegetables, or even a mix of sundried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean twist. Just make sure to keep the moisture levels in check to avoid soggy pinwheels!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and crisp again.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels up to a day in advance. Simply roll and slice them, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
What Should I Serve with the Pinwheels?
These pinwheels pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, a light dipping sauce like garlic aioli or marinara, or even a glass of wine! They make a tasty appetizer for parties or a delightful snack at any time.