These delightful prosciutto puff pastry pinwheels are easy to make and oh-so-tasty! With crispy pastry wrapped around savory prosciutto and cheese, they are a perfect snack or appetizer.
Everyone loves how flaky and golden they turn out. I can’t resist them fresh from the oven! Pair them with a nice dip, and you’ll be the star of any gathering! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: The star of this dish! Use frozen puff pastry for convenience. If you can’t find frozen, you can make your own or use phyllo dough, though the texture will be different.
Prosciutto: This adds a salty flavor and richness. If you prefer a lighter option, try using sliced turkey, ham, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist!
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella for its gooeyness and Parmesan for its nuttiness. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like fontina or cheddar for a unique flavor!
Thyme: Fresh thyme is fragrant and flavorful. If you have dried thyme, it works too—just use less since dried is stronger, about 1 teaspoon will do.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice zing! If you want a milder taste, omit it or use a bit of mayonnaise instead for creaminess.
How Do You Get Perfectly Rolled Pinwheels?
Rolling your pinwheels tightly helps keep all the fillings together, so they don’t fall apart while baking. Here’s how to do it right:
- After layering the ingredients, start rolling from one of the longer sides—this makes longer pinwheels.
- Keep it snug but not too tight. If it’s too tight, the filling may ooze out during baking.
- Wrap your log in plastic wrap and chill for 15-20 minutes; this makes slicing easier and helps with clean edges.
- When slicing, use a sharp knife and cut gently to maintain the circular shape of the pinwheels.
How to Make Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Puff Pastry Base:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
Filling:
- 4-6 slices prosciutto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for a tangy layer)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus 15-20 minutes to bake. Including chilling time, you should budget around 40 minutes total. They’ll come out golden and flaky, ready to impress your guests in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, take the thawed puff pastry sheet and unfold it. Roll it gently into a rectangle that measures about 12 x 10 inches. This will give you enough space to fill and roll.
3. Add the Mustard Layer:
If you like a slight tang, spread a thin, even layer of Dijon mustard over the puff pastry. Leave about a 1/2 inch border around the edges to prevent spills when rolling.
4. Layer with Prosciutto and Cheese:
Next, lay the prosciutto slices evenly over the pastry. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget to add the thyme leaves and a dash of freshly ground black pepper!
5. Roll It Up:
Starting from the longer side, carefully roll the pastry tightly into a log shape. Make sure it’s snug, but not too tight to keep the filling from oozing out.
6. Chill the Roll:
Wrap the log in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This step firms up the pastry and makes slicing easier.
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
After chilling, remove the log from the fridge and slice it into about 12 equal pinwheels, each being approximately 1/2 inch thick.
8. Bake the Pinwheels:
Place the sliced pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between them. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a beautiful golden color as they bake.
9. Enjoy:
Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving. Enjoy these delicious, crispy prosciutto puff pastry pinwheels warm as a delightful snack or appetizer!
These pinwheels are sure to become a favorite at any gathering—easy to make and full of flavor!
Can I Use Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While prosciutto adds a lovely flavor, you can substitute it with other cured meats like salami, ham, or even roasted chicken for varied taste. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try adding spinach, artichokes, or roasted peppers instead!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels up to the point of baking, then wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bake them before serving for the best puffiness!
What Can I Serve with These Pinwheels?
These pinwheels are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your appetizer spread by serving them with a dipping sauce, like a balsamic reduction, a creamy aioli, or even a simple marinara sauce. Enjoy!
