Introduction
Prosciutto and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a delightful appetizer that brings together the richness of prosciutto and the creaminess of cheese, all encased in flaky, buttery puff pastry. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a savory snack, they are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. The combination of flavors and textures makes these pinwheels an irresistible treat.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Puff pastry: 1 sheet, thawed
Prosciutto: 4 ounces, sliced thin
Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (such as Gruyère or fontina)
Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
Black pepper: to taste
Fresh herbs: optional, for garnish (such as parsley or thyme)
Prep Time
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 20 pinwheels
These prosciutto and cheese puff pastry pinwheels make a fantastic addition to any menu, combining elegance and simplicity in every bite. Enjoy preparing and sharing this delicious recipe at your next event!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lay out a sheet of thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Ensure the pastry is rolled out to a rectangle approximately 10×12 inches in size.
Add the Prosciutto
Evenly layer slices of prosciutto over the surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese of your choice over the prosciutto, ensuring even coverage.
Roll the Puff Pastry
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log, making sure to tuck in the edges as you go.
Chill the Roll
Wrap the rolled pastry log in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to firm up.
Slice the Pinwheels
Once chilled, remove the roll from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into even pinwheels, about 1 inch thick.
Prepare for Baking
Place the pinwheels cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each pinwheel.
Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together an egg with a little water. Brush the mixture over the tops of the pinwheels for a golden finish.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and puffed up.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
Storage Tips
Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
Unbaked pinwheels can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Customizations
Feel free to customize your pinwheels with different fillings such as spinach, artichokes, or various types of cheese.
Serving Suggestions
These pinwheels make great appetizers or snacks and can be served with a side of dipping sauce such as marinara or pesto.
Cook techniques
Rolling and Shaping
To create pinwheels, roll out the puff pastry carefully and ensure an even thickness. Spread the filling on top, then roll the pastry tightly into a log shape.
Cutting
Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled pastry into even slices. This ensures that each pinwheel has a uniform appearance and cooks evenly.
Chilling
Chill the pinwheels in the refrigerator for a short period before baking. This helps maintain their shape during baking and ensures a flakier texture.
Baking
Bake the pinwheels at the recommended temperature until golden brown. This ensures that the pastry puffs up and develops a crispy texture.
Cooling
Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly after baking. This helps them set and improves the overall texture and flavor.
FAQ
What type of cheese works best for pinwheels?
Soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese are great options as they spread easily and complement the prosciutto well.
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to the point of baking and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them fresh before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I substitute prosciutto?
Absolutely! You could use other cured meats like salami or turkey if you prefer a different flavor.
Is puff pastry difficult to work with?
Puff pastry can be tricky, but with practice, it becomes easier. Keeping it cold helps manage the dough better.
Conclusion
Indulging in prosciutto and cheese puff pastry pinwheels is a delightful experience. These tasty bites combine the savory richness of prosciutto with creamy cheese, all wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect as appetizers or party snacks, they are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels
For a vegetarian twist, consider using fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese. This combination provides a vibrant taste and is just as flaky and delightful.
Ham and Swiss Puff Pastry Rolls
Swap out the prosciutto for ham and add Swiss cheese for a classic flavor profile that pairs well with mustard for dipping.
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Swirls
Elevate your pinwheels with smoked salmon and cream cheese, garnished with dill and capers for a sophisticated touch.
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Pinwheels
Combine pesto and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of Mediterranean flavor that complements the buttery pastry.
Caprese Puff Pastry Bites
For a fresh option, layer fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with balsamic glaze inside the pastry for a Caprese-inspired treat.