Description
Flaky puff pastry pinwheels with creamy goat cheese, sweet fig jam, honey, and thyme. Great appetizer or snack!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fig jam
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, fig jam, honey, and chopped fresh thyme. Mix well until creamy and evenly combined. Gently fold in chopped walnuts, if using. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang as desired.
- Assemble the Pinwheels: Lightly flour a clean surface. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and gently roll it into a 12×12 inch square.
- Evenly spread the goat cheese and fig mixture over the entire surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border (about 1/2 inch) along one edge.
- Starting from the edge opposite the border, tightly roll up the puff pastry into a log.
- Moisten the border with a little water. This will help seal the edge and prevent the pinwheel from unraveling during baking. Press the edge firmly to seal.
- Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Slice and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the chilled puff pastry log from the refrigerator. Using a sharp, serrated knife, slice the log into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Place the sliced pinwheels onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- In a small bowl, whisk the beaten egg. Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt over the top of each pinwheel.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the puff pastry is fully cooked.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pinwheels cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese! Cream cheese, brie, or even a sharp cheddar would all be delicious alternatives to goat cheese.
- Jam Variations: Try using different types of jam, such as apricot, raspberry, or blackberry. Each jam will impart a unique flavor to the pinwheels.
- Nut Variations: Substitute the walnuts with pecans, almonds, or pistachios. You can also toast the nuts before adding them to the filling for a richer flavor.
- Savory Twist: For a more savory version, omit the honey and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. You can also add some chopped prosciutto or bacon for a salty, smoky flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Rosemary, oregano, or even a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs would all be delicious additions to the filling.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the puff pastry log ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. This is a great way to save time when entertaining.
- Chilling the rolled puff pastry log is crucial for easy slicing and maintaining the pinwheel shape.
- Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the pinwheels.
- Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes