Are you ready to elevate your snack game with a dish that's as delightful to make as it is to eat? Meet the Cheese and Tomato Pinwheels—a scrumptious Italian treat that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! These golden, flaky bites are filled with gooey cheese and zesty tomato sauce, making them the perfect appetizer for any gathering or a quick indulgence for yourself. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you'll be amazed at how easily you can impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleaser. Dive into this article to discover how to create these irresistible pinwheels that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 12 pinwheels
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your pinwheels cook evenly and become golden brown.
- Thaw the puff pastry sheet if it is frozen. You can do this by leaving it in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to smooth it out and ensure it’s large enough to work with.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. This will prevent the sauce from leaking out while baking.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tomato sauce. Make sure to cover the sauce well to ensure every bite has cheesy goodness.
- Sprinkle the dried oregano over the cheese for added flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your personal preference.
- Starting from one edge, carefully roll the puff pastry sheet tightly into a log. Make sure to roll it evenly to maintain the shape of the pinwheels.
- Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 equal pinwheels, about 1 inch thick. Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each one to allow for expansion during baking.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. Brush the top of each pinwheel with the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Tips
- Perfect Puff Pastry: Ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling it out. This will help achieve that light, flaky texture we all love. If you're short on time, you can use the microwave to thaw it, but be cautious not to overdo it!
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Add cooked spinach, diced bell peppers, or even pepperoni to the filling for an extra flavor boost. The possibilities are endless!
- Egg Wash Magic: For that golden-brown finish, don’t skip the egg wash! It not only enhances the color but also gives a lovely sheen to your pinwheels.
- Slice with Precision: When cutting the rolled pastry into pinwheels, use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to avoid squishing them. Aim for even slices to ensure consistent baking.
- Watch the Oven: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your pinwheels as they bake. They should be puffed and golden brown, typically taking around 15-20 minutes.
- Serve Warm: For the best taste experience, serve these pinwheels warm right out of the oven. Pair them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
