10 Christmas Pinwheel Appetizer Recipes That Spin Up Holiday Fun

When it comes to holiday gatherings, there’s nothing like a platter of festive appetizers to get everyone in the spirit.

Have you thought about adding a twist to your party with Christmas pinwheel recipes?

These bite-sized delights are visually stunning and packed with flavor.

From classic ham and cheese to the unique pairing of goat cheese and fig, there’s something for everyone.

Curious about how these pinwheels can elevate your festivities?

Classic Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Classic Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that will add a touch of festive spirit to your Christmas gathering. These bite-sized treats are perfect for entertaining guests, as they aren’t only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. The combination of savory ham, creamy cheese, and buttery pastry creates a flavorful blend that’s bound to please everyone’s palate.

These pinwheels can be prepared in advance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities with your loved ones.

The beauty of Classic Ham and Cheese Pinwheels lies in their simplicity and versatility. You can customize them with your favorite type of ham and cheese, or even add extra fillings like mustard or herbs to suit your taste. The flaky pastry provides a delightful crunch, while the melted cheese adds a creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the salty ham.

Whether you’re hosting a large party or a small family gathering, these pinwheels are a must-have on your holiday menu.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people):

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 6 slices of deli ham
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard (optional)
• Flour for dusting

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pinwheels from sticking.
2. Prepare the pastry: Lightly dust your work surface with flour. Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth out any creases. If using mustard, spread a thin layer over the entire surface of the pastry.
3. Add fillings: Lay the slices of ham evenly over the pastry, ensuring they cover the entire sheet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the ham, distributing it evenly.
4. Roll the pastry: Starting from one end, gently but tightly roll the pastry into a log, ensuring the fillings stay in place. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to cut the log into 1-inch thick slices.
5. Prepare for baking: Arrange the slices cut side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each pinwheel. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
6. Bake the pinwheels: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an added flavor boost, consider sprinkling some freshly chopped herbs, such as chives or parsley, on top of the cheese before rolling the pastry.

If you want to make these pinwheels ahead of time, prepare them up to the slicing step and store them in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap until you’re ready to bake. This will save you time on the day of your event.

Cranberry and Brie Pinwheels

Cranberry and Brie Pinwheels are a delightful holiday appetizer that perfectly combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tartness of cranberries, all wrapped in a flaky, buttery puff pastry.

These pinwheels aren’t only beautiful to look at but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for a festive gathering. The vibrant red cranberries and soft, melted brie make for an irresistible combination that will surely impress your guests.

This appetizer is ideal for serving at Christmas parties or any holiday event. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The pinwheels can be prepared in advance and baked just before your guests arrive, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without spending too much time in the kitchen.

With a serving size suitable for 4-6 people, this recipe guarantees everyone gets to enjoy this delicious treat.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 6 oz brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Flour, for dusting

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour a clean working surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smoothen any creases.
2. Spread the Filling: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange the slices of brie cheese evenly over the cranberry sauce. If using, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top.
3. Roll the Pastry: Starting from one end, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log. Once rolled, slice the log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels.
4. Prepare for Baking: Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each piece. Brush the tops and sides of the pinwheels with the beaten egg to guarantee a golden finish.
5. Bake the Pinwheels: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.

Extra Tips:

To make the Cranberry and Brie Pinwheels even more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme before baking for an aromatic touch.

If you prefer a sweeter note, you can mix a little honey into the cranberry sauce. When slicing the rolled pastry, use a sharp knife to guarantee clean cuts and even thickness.

These pinwheels are best served warm, but they can also be reheated in the oven for a few minutes if needed.

Spinach and Feta Pinwheels

Spinach and Feta Pinwheels are a delightful and festive appetizer that will surely impress your guests at any holiday gathering. These savory treats combine the rich, creamy flavor of feta cheese with the fresh, earthy taste of spinach, all wrapped up in a flaky puff pastry. Not only are they visually appealing with their beautiful spiral design, but they’re also bursting with flavor, making them a perfect addition to your Christmas appetizer spread.

The preparation process is simple, allowing you to focus on entertaining rather than spending too much time in the kitchen. These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and are easy to transport, making them a convenient choice for potlucks and parties. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or a small get-together with friends, Spinach and Feta Pinwheels are sure to be a hit, offering a delectable combination of textures and flavors in each bite.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people):

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Spinach Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until well combined.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases. It should be a rectangle about 10×12 inches in size.
4. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the spinach and feta mixture over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to guarantee the filling doesn’t spill out during baking.
5. Roll and Slice the Pinwheels: Starting from one long side, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into approximately 12 equal pieces.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the pinwheels cut side down on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced apart to allow for expansion during baking.
7. Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown finish.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, confirm your puff pastry is thoroughly thawed before use, as this will make it easier to handle and roll. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture.

These pinwheels can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. If you’re making them ahead of time, cover the unbaked pinwheels tightly to prevent drying out. Serve warm for best taste and texture, but they’re equally delicious when served at room temperature.

Smoked Salmon and Dill Pinwheels

Nothing says festive quite like a tray of beautifully rolled Smoked Salmon and Dill Pinwheels. These delicious appetizers are perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a fresh and savory start to any meal. The combination of smoked salmon, creamy cheese, and the vibrant hint of dill wrapped in a soft tortilla is a symphony of flavors that will impress your guests.

Not only are they visually appealing, but they’re also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a favorite choice for both novice and seasoned cooks.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or as a part of a larger appetizer spread. The process is simple, requiring only a few key ingredients that come together quickly. As you prepare this dish, you’ll appreciate how the rich, smoky flavor of the salmon complements the tangy cream cheese and aromatic dill, creating a well-balanced bite.

These pinwheels can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your holiday hosting.

Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 8 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Handful of fresh spinach leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, and lemon juice. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
2. Assemble the Pinwheels: Lay out one tortilla on a clean, flat surface. Spread a quarter of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla, making certain you cover the entire surface.
3. Add the Smoked Salmon: Place a layer of smoked salmon slices over the cream cheese mixture. If desired, add a few fresh spinach leaves on top of the salmon for additional texture and flavor.
4. Roll the Tortilla: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla into a tight log. Make sure the roll is firm to prevent it from unraveling when sliced. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and ingredients.
5. Chill the Rolls: Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.
6. Slice and Serve: Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and slice each roll into 1-inch wide pinwheels. Arrange them on a serving platter and garnish with extra dill, if desired.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, confirm the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to achieve a smoother spread. This will make it easier to spread evenly on the tortillas.

If you’re preparing these pinwheels in advance, they can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to slice them shortly before serving to maintain their fresh appearance.

Additionally, if you prefer a more pronounced flavor, consider adding a touch of horseradish to the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick.

Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Pinwheels

Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Pinwheels are a delightful and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. These pinwheels combine the rich flavors of basil pesto and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped in a flaky puff pastry.

They’re not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an excellent choice for impressing guests during Christmas celebrations. The combination of vibrant green pesto and deep red sun-dried tomatoes also adds a pop of holiday color to your table.

This recipe is quite simple to prepare and requires only a few ingredients, making it a quick solution for last-minute entertaining. The pinwheels can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, guaranteeing that they’re warm and fresh for your guests.

With a serving size of 4-6 people, this dish is perfect for a small gathering or as part of a larger spread of appetizers.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1/3 cup basil pesto
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases, making sure it’s about 10×12 inches in size.
3. Spread the Pesto: Evenly spread the basil pesto over the entire surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sprinkle the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the pesto layer, ensuring an even distribution.
5. Sprinkle Cheese: Evenly distribute the grated Parmesan cheese over the sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Roll the Pastry: Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log, making sure the filling remains inside.
7. Chill the Roll: Wrap the puff pastry log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes to firm up, making it easier to slice.
8. Slice the Pinwheels: Remove the chilled roll from the refrigerator and cut it into 1/2-inch thick slices using a sharp knife.
9. Arrange and Brush with Egg Wash: Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and puffed.
11. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee even baking, it’s important to slice the pinwheels uniformly and place them evenly on the baking sheet. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper or a sprinkle of Italian herbs to the filling.

These pinwheels can also be frozen before baking; simply slice and arrange them on a tray, freeze until solid, then store in a zip-top bag. When ready to serve, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Roast Beef and Horseradish Pinwheels

Roast Beef and Horseradish Pinwheels are a delightful appetizer that combines the savory flavor of roast beef with the sharpness of horseradish, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a balance of flavors that can be both a palate cleanser and a deliciously hearty bite.

The horseradish cream gives these pinwheels a spicy kick, while the tender roast beef adds a rich, meaty texture. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or attending a festive potluck, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests with their taste and presentation.

Not only are these pinwheels easy to prepare, but they also offer flexibility regarding ingredients, allowing you to adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. You can prepare them in advance, making them a convenient option for busy holiday preparations.

The combination of fresh herbs and creamy cheese creates a smooth, flavorful base, enhancing the overall taste experience. Serve them cold or at room temperature, and watch them disappear quickly from the appetizer table.

Ingredients for 4-6 people:

• 6 large flour tortillas
• 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves, washed and dried

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Horseradish Cream: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, prepared horseradish, and Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as desired.
2. Lay Out the Tortillas: Place a tortilla on a clean, flat surface. Using a spatula, spread an even layer of the horseradish cream mixture over the entire surface of the tortilla, ensuring that the edges are covered to help it seal when rolled.
3. Layer with Roast Beef: Place slices of roast beef evenly over the spread, covering about two-thirds of the tortilla. This will help in rolling it tightly without the filling spilling out.
4. Add Spinach and Chives: Sprinkle a generous amount of chopped chives over the roast beef, and then layer with a few spinach leaves. Ensure the spinach leaves are distributed evenly to give each pinwheel a bit of green color and freshness.
5. Roll the Tortilla: Starting from the edge closest to you, begin rolling the tortilla tightly, ensuring that the filling stays in place and the roll is firm. Once fully rolled, secure the end with a small amount of the horseradish cream to keep it sealed.
6. Slice into Pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled tortilla into 1-inch thick slices to form pinwheels. Arrange them on a serving platter with the cut side up for a visually appealing presentation.
7. Chill Before Serving: For the best results, chill the pinwheels in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures they hold their shape.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of the Roast Beef and Horseradish Pinwheels, consider experimenting with different types of roast beef, such as smoked or peppered varieties, for additional depth.

If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of horseradish in the cream mixture. You can also incorporate additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a unique twist.

When slicing the pinwheels, use a serrated knife to ensure clean cuts without squishing the roll. These pinwheels can be prepared a day in advance, making them a convenient option for stress-free entertaining.

Turkey and Cranberry Pinwheels

Turkey and Cranberry Pinwheels are a festive and delightful appetizer perfect for your holiday gatherings. These savory bites blend the flavors of roasted turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla for a pleasing combination of textures and tastes. Ideal for a Christmas party, these pinwheels aren’t only simple to prepare but also visually appealing, adding a splash of holiday color to your appetizer spread.

The beauty of Turkey and Cranberry Pinwheels lies in their versatility and ease of preparation. They can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your holiday feast. Whether you’re catering to a large crowd or planning a cozy dinner, these pinwheels can be adjusted in size and flavor to suit your needs. Their portability makes them a perfect choice for buffets or potluck dinners, and they can be customized with additional ingredients to create a personalized twist.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 4 large tortillas (flour or whole wheat)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 8 slices of roasted turkey breast
• 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spread: Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Beat it with a spoon or mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy. This step guarantees that the cream cheese spreads easily across the tortillas.
2. Assemble the Pinwheels: Lay out one tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese over the entire tortilla, reaching the edges to guarantee even coverage. Next, spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce on top of the cream cheese.
3. Layer the Turkey and Spinach: Place two slices of roasted turkey breast over the cranberry layer, followed by a handful of baby spinach leaves. Make sure the layers are even to allow for easy rolling and cutting.
4. Roll the Tortilla: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla into a tight log. Use gentle pressure to guarantee the fillings are secured within the roll. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
5. Chill and Slice: Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling period helps the pinwheels hold their shape, making them easier to slice. Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and cut each roll into 1-inch slices using a sharp knife.
6. Serve: Arrange the pinwheels on a festive platter and serve them chilled. They can be garnished with additional cranberry sauce or fresh herbs for extra flair.

Extra Tips:

For a flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or spices to the cream cheese before spreading it on the tortilla. If you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of chili powder or a few slices of jalapeños can add a nice kick.

Additionally, if you’re preparing these pinwheels in advance, keep them wrapped tightly in the refrigerator until just before serving to maintain freshness. Remember, the key to perfectly formed pinwheels is a tight roll and proper chilling time.

Caprese Pinwheels

Caprese Pinwheels are a delightful and festive appetizer perfect for your Christmas gatherings. Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, these pinwheels combine fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil with a touch of balsamic glaze, all wrapped in a soft, flaky pastry. Not only are they bursting with flavor, but they’re also a breeze to prepare, making them an ideal choice for a holiday party where time and ease are of the essence.

These pinwheels present beautifully, with their vibrant red, green, and white hues capturing the spirit of the season. Their bite-sized nature makes them convenient for guests to enjoy during mingling or conversation. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Caprese Pinwheels are sure to be a hit on any holiday table, offering a rejuvenating contrast to heavier seasonal fare.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, shredded
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll it out to ensure even thickness.
3. Add the Filling: Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the diced cherry tomatoes and chopped basil over the cheese. Drizzle the balsamic glaze lightly over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roll the Pastry: Starting from one end, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log. Seal the edge by brushing it with a little beaten egg.
5. Slice the Pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1-inch thick rounds. Place each slice cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
6. Bake the Pinwheels: Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the remaining egg wash. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, use high-quality fresh mozzarella and ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes. If you prefer a tangy twist, you can substitute sun-dried tomatoes for fresh ones. Confirm your puff pastry is thoroughly thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.

These pinwheels can be made a few hours in advance and gently reheated before serving. To make slicing easier, chill the rolled pastry log in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before cutting. Enjoy your festive Caprese Pinwheels!

Goat Cheese and Fig Pinwheels

The holiday season is the perfect time to impress your guests with delightful appetizers, and Goat Cheese and Fig Pinwheels are an elegant yet simple option. These tasty treats combine the rich creaminess of goat cheese with the sweet, earthy flavor of figs, all wrapped up in flaky puff pastry. The combination is both sophisticated and approachable, making it a surefire hit at any Christmas gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or attending a holiday potluck, this recipe will add a touch of gourmet flair to the occasion. The beauty of these pinwheels lies in their simplicity and the way they balance flavors and textures. The tangy goat cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of fig preserves, while the crisp pastry provides a satisfying crunch.

This recipe yields enough pinwheels to serve 4-6 people as an appetizer, making it a perfect choice for intimate gatherings or as part of a larger spread. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these delightful pinwheels with ease.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 4 oz goat cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup fig preserves
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• A pinch of salt
• Flour for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on the floured surface into a rectangle, roughly 10×12 inches in size. Use a rolling pin to ascertain an even thickness.
3. Spread Goat Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with the chopped rosemary and a pinch of salt. Spread this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry.
4. Add Fig Preserves and Honey: Evenly distribute the fig preserves over the goat cheese layer, then drizzle the honey on top for added sweetness.
5. Roll and Slice: Starting from one of the shorter sides, tightly roll the pastry into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
6. Prepare for Baking: Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden brown finish when baked.
7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm or at room temperature.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, ascertain that your puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold; this will make it easier to handle and prevent it from becoming too sticky.

When rolling the pastry, work quickly to prevent the butter in the dough from melting, which can affect the texture and rise of the pastry. Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as thyme or basil for a slightly different flavor profile.

If you’re making these pinwheels in advance, they can be prepped and refrigerated for a few hours before baking, making them a convenient option for holiday entertaining.

Roast Vegetable and Hummus Pinwheels

Roast Vegetable and Hummus Pinwheels are a delightful and colorful appetizer perfect for any festive occasion, especially Christmas gatherings. These pinwheels combine the earthy flavors of roasted vegetables with the creamy texture of hummus, all rolled in a soft tortilla, making them both visually appealing and delicious. They aren’t only easy to prepare but also cater to a variety of dietary preferences, being both vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

The combination of fresh vegetables and rich hummus provides a burst of flavor with every bite, making them a hit with guests of all ages. Ideal for serving 4-6 people, these pinwheels can be prepared in advance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time in the kitchen.

The key to these pinwheels is in the quality and selection of the vegetables and hummus. Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade hummus, ascertain it’s of good quality, as it serves as the base flavor for the dish. The roasted vegetables add a smoky and sweet note, perfectly complementing the creamy hummus, while the tortillas help to hold everything together in a neat, bite-sized package.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized red bell peppers
• 1 large zucchini
• 1 large yellow squash
• 1 red onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop the red bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion into small, even-sized pieces. This ascertains they roast evenly.
2. Season and Roast: Place the chopped vegetables in a large bowl. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well-coated. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. Stir them halfway through to ascertain even roasting.
3. Prepare the Tortillas: While the vegetables are roasting, lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of hummus over each tortilla, reaching the edges to ascertain every bite is flavorful.
4. Assemble the Pinwheels: Once the vegetables are roasted and slightly cooled, divide them evenly among the tortillas. Add a layer of fresh spinach leaves on top of the vegetables for an added crunch and freshness.
5. Roll and Slice: Carefully roll each tortilla tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange them on a serving platter, cut side up, for an attractive presentation.

Extra Tips:

When preparing Roast Vegetable and Hummus Pinwheels, make sure the roasted vegetables are completely cooled before assembling the pinwheels. This prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy.

If you want to add a bit of a kick, consider mixing a dash of hot sauce into the hummus before spreading it on the tortillas. For a burst of color and flavor, you could also sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the roasted vegetables before rolling the tortillas.

These pinwheels can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain their shape and freshness until serving time.