If you’re looking for a quick and delicious appetizer, Air Fryer Pesto Pinwheels are a game-changer! These golden, crispy pinwheels are bursting with fresh, herby pesto and melted cheese, making them the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a casual get-together, or just need a snack that’s easy and satisfying, these pinwheels are sure to impress.
The best part? You don’t need a traditional oven to make these crispy, cheesy delights. Using your air fryer, the pinwheels cook to perfection in no time. With only a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these savory bites in under 20 minutes. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Pesto Sauce: Pesto is the star ingredient that brings this recipe to life. Made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, it has a rich, herby flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in these pinwheels. You can use store-bought pesto, or make your own for an extra burst of freshness.
Puff Pastry Sheets: Puff pastry gives these pinwheels their light, flaky texture. When air-fried, the layers puff up and crisp to golden perfection. It’s important to use a high-quality puff pastry, as it will provide the best results for the texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is the perfect cheese for these pinwheels because it melts beautifully and adds a creamy, mild flavor that balances the savory pesto. For the best melt, use shredded mozzarella instead of slices.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds an extra depth of flavor and a touch of saltiness that enhances the overall taste of the pesto. It pairs wonderfully with the mozzarella and pesto, giving the pinwheels an irresistible cheesy kick.
Egg Wash: An egg wash is used to brush the pinwheels before air frying. This gives the pastry a beautiful golden-brown finish and a slightly crispy texture that’s essential for the perfect pinwheel.
Ingredients list
- Pesto Sauce: 3-4 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
- Puff Pastry Sheets: 1 sheet (thawed if frozen)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1/2 cup (shredded)
- Parmesan Cheese: 2 tablespoons (grated)
- Egg: 1 (beaten, for the egg wash)
How to Make Air Fryer Pesto Pinwheels
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Begin by unrolling the puff pastry sheet on a flat surface. Make sure the pastry is thawed and at room temperature to avoid it being too stiff when working with it.
Step 2: Spread the Pesto
Evenly spread the pesto sauce over the entire surface of the puff pastry. You want a nice thin layer that will coat the pastry, but not too much that it oozes out when rolled up. Leave about half an inch of space along the edges for sealing.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto-covered pastry. Follow by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. The combination of these two cheeses will give the pinwheels their perfect cheesy melt.
Step 4: Roll the Pastry
Carefully roll the puff pastry into a log shape, starting from one end. Be gentle to avoid the pesto and cheese from spilling out. Once it’s rolled up, slice it into about 8 equal pieces.
Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash
Brush the top of each pinwheel with the beaten egg to give them a golden and crispy finish when they’re air fried.
Step 6: Air Fry the Pinwheels
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the pinwheels in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pinwheels are ready, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer, snack, or party treat!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil in the pesto and freshly shredded mozzarella will take these pinwheels to the next level. The fresher the ingredients, the more flavorful the dish will be.
- Roll the Pastry Tightly: Be sure to roll the pastry tightly to keep the filling inside and prevent it from oozing out while cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Air fry the pinwheels in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly and become perfectly crispy. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try adding cooked chicken, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor variations!
- Keep an Eye on the Pinwheels: Since air fryer models vary, check the pinwheels around 8 minutes to make sure they don’t overcook. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes! Store-bought puff pastry is perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it properly before using.
Can I make the pinwheels in advance?
You can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just brush with the egg wash and cook when you’re ready!
Can I freeze the pinwheels?
Yes! Once the pinwheels are rolled and sliced, you can freeze them before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, no need to thaw – just air fry them straight from the freezer for a few extra minutes.
What other sauces can I use besides pesto?
If you’re not a fan of pesto, you can substitute with tomato sauce, garlic butter, or even a creamy spinach dip for a different flavor profile.
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy Air Fryer Pesto Pinwheels as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack at your next gathering!