Savory Star-Shaped Pesto Pinwheels (Printable View)

Flaky pastry stars filled with basil pesto and Parmesan, perfect as a festive snack or appetizer.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 1 sheet thawed puff pastry (about 8.8 oz)

→ Filling

02 - 4 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
03 - 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 1.4 oz)
04 - 1 egg yolk
05 - 1 tablespoon milk

→ Garnish (optional)

06 - 1 tablespoon lightly toasted pine nuts
07 - Fresh basil leaves

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a 10 x 12 inch rectangle.
03 - Spread basil pesto evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto.
04 - Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the pastry into a log.
05 - Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 16 equal slices.
06 - Place each slice flat on the baking sheet. Make five evenly spaced cuts around each slice’s edge using a small knife or kitchen scissors, then gently pull the tips outward to form star shapes.
07 - Whisk together egg yolk and milk in a small bowl, then brush the mixture onto the tops of the pinwheels.
08 - Sprinkle lightly toasted pine nuts on top, if using.
09 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
10 - Allow to cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to prepare
  • Delicious Italian-inspired appetizer
02 -
  • Try sun-dried tomato pesto or olive tapenade for a variation
  • These pinwheels are best served the day they are made but can be reheated in a hot oven for a few minutes
03 -
  • Use high-quality basil pesto for best flavor
  • Chill the rolled log before slicing to maintain shape
Return