If you’re anything like me, you love a snack that’s both impressive and ridiculously easy to make. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Salami and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe with you—it’s a total crowd-pleaser! Crispy, flaky puff pastry swirled with savory salami, melty cheese, and a kick of mustard, these pinwheels are perfect for everything from party appetizers to a cozy snack with a cup of tea. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through making these delicious bites that everyone will be begging for.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Simple & Quick: You’ll be amazed how fast this recipe comes together with just a few quality ingredients.
- Elevates Any Gathering: Whether it’s a casual snack or a party appetizer, these pinwheels always steal the show.
- Perfect Flavor Combo: The tangy mustard paired with savory salami and melty cheese is a match made in flavor heaven.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep these ahead of time, chill, and bake when you’re ready, saving you tons of stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simplicity and solid basics. When you pick good-quality puff pastry, sharp mustard, and flavorful salami, the result tastes so much more delicious. I always recommend using freshly grated cheese for best melt and freshness—it really makes a difference!
- Puff Pastry: Pre-rolled frozen puff pastry works perfectly—just thaw it gently without letting it get too warm or sticky.
- Coarse Ground Mustard: Adds a wonderful tang and texture; you can swap for Dijon if you prefer a smoother taste.
- Hard Salami: Chopped into small pieces so every pinwheel gets that savory punch.
- Colby Jack Cheese: Freshly grated melts beautifully; sharp or mild cheeses also work if you want to mix it up.
- Egg: For that golden, glossy finish on the pinwheels—makes them look as good as they taste.
- Water: Just a splash to thin out the egg wash for easy brushing and sealing.
Variations
I love how versatile the Salami and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe is—feel free to customize it based on what you like or what you have on hand. I often experiment with different cheeses or add herbs for a fresh twist.
- Cheese Swap: I once used sharp cheddar and smoked gouda and found the flavor completely next-level—great if you like things a bit smokier.
- Herbs & Spices: Adding a sprinkle of dried oregano or fresh basil inside before rolling gives it a lovely herby aroma.
- Meat-Free Option: Replace salami with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version that’s just as tasty.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes inside for some heat—my family loves it this way!
How to Make Salami and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Roll Out and Layer the Puff Pastry
First, gently roll out your thawed puff pastry sheets into a rectangle about 11 by 16 inches. This helps even out the thickness and gives you a good size to work with. Then, spread 2 tablespoons of coarse ground mustard evenly over each pastry sheet—you’ll love the tangy flavor that comes from this step. Don’t rush this part; taking your time will make rolling easier and the flavor more balanced.
Step 2: Add Salami and Cheese Layers
Next up, sprinkle half of the grated Colby Jack cheese and half of the chopped hard salami over the mustard-covered puff pastry. Try to spread the ingredients evenly so every pinwheel has the perfect bite of cheese and salami—not too crowded, but never skimpy. I learned this trick after a few batches where some bites had way too much cheese and others were mostly mustard!
Step 3: Roll and Seal the Pastry Logs
Carefully roll each pastry sheet into a log, starting from one of the long edges. Once rolled, mix one egg with a tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently brush this wash along the edge to seal your log—this keeps everything neat during baking. Wrapping these logs tightly in plastic wrap before chilling helps them hold their shape and makes slicing a breeze later.
Step 4: Chill and Slice Into Pinwheels
Place the wrapped logs on a flat surface and refrigerate for at least one hour—this chilling step is key. It firms up the pastry and filling, so when you slice, each pinwheel stays intact. After chilling, unwrap and slice into ½-inch thick rounds. Don’t forget to discard the two uneven ends—they bake unevenly and can get tougher than you want.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange your pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give the tops a final brush with egg wash to encourage a shiny, golden crust. Bake in a fully preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 25 minutes until you see that gorgeous puff pastry puffing up and turning golden brown. Pro tip: keep an eye on them around the 22-minute mark—ovens vary, and you want them perfect, not burnt!
Pro Tips for Making Salami and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe
- Keep Puff Pastry Cold: I always work quickly and keep the pastry cool to prevent it from getting sticky and hard to roll.
- Even Slices Matter: Using a sharp serrated knife helps cut clean slices without squishing the pastry.
- Don’t Skip Chilling: Chilling the rolled logs is my secret for perfect pins that hold their swirl beautifully.
- Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup way easier—I always line my baking sheet for these.
How to Serve Salami and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness—it brightens up the rich flavors. Sometimes I serve them alongside a small dish of grainy mustard for dipping, which brings out the flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
For a full snack spread, I often pair these pinwheels with a crisp green salad or a platter of fresh veggies and hummus. They also go surprisingly well with a cheese board featuring olives, nuts, and some crusty bread. If it’s a party, I love having a simple tomato soup alongside for dipping—it’s amazing!
Creative Ways to Present
When I’m hosting, I arrange these pinwheels upright on a wooden serving board in a spiral pattern—it looks fancy but takes zero effort. Another fun idea is to thread a couple on cocktail sticks for a handheld option at buffets or cocktail parties. Seasonal garnishes like edible flowers or tiny herb sprigs also add a beautiful touch for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pinwheels keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find that keeping them on a paper towel inside the container helps absorb any extra moisture, so they don’t get soggy. When ready to eat, they still taste delicious at room temperature!
Freezing
One of my favorite things about this Salami and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe is how freezer-friendly it is. After slicing, I arrange the pinwheels on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Frozen pinwheels keep well for up to 2 months and can be baked straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pinwheels in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. I avoid microwaving because it tends to make the pastry soggy, and that flaky crunch is the best part!
FAQs
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Can I use different types of cheese in this Salami and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe?
Absolutely! While Colby Jack is my go-to for its creamy melt and mild flavor, sharp cheddar, gouda, or even mozzarella can work beautifully. Just keep in mind that harder cheeses tend to melt less and sharper cheeses will give a bolder flavor.
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Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! You can roll and slice the pinwheels, then refrigerate them wrapped for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a huge time-saver for parties and gatherings. Just remember to let your oven fully preheat before baking.
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What if I don’t have coarse ground mustard?
No worries! Dijon mustard or even a whole grain mustard can be great substitutes. The coarse texture adds a bit of bite, but the flavor is the real star here, so use what you have on hand and enjoy.
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How do I keep the pinwheels from unrolling while baking?
Chilling the rolled pastry logs before slicing is key—it helps them firm up and stay rolled during baking. Also, brushing the edge with egg wash before chilling acts like glue to seal the seam tight.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Salami and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe hits all the right notes—easy prep, amazing flavor, and that beautiful flaky crunch you just can’t get enough of. Whether you’re making these for a quick snack, family gathering, or special occasion, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly impressive they are. Trust me, once you try them, your family and friends will be asking for this recipe on repeat!
Print
Salami and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 48 Pinwheels 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Salami and Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful savory appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry rolled with coarse ground mustard, hard salami, and melted Colby Jack cheese. Perfect for parties or snack time, these pinwheels are crispy on the outside and packed with flavorful fillings inside.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry
Filling
- 4 Tablespoons coarse ground mustard
- 1 cup hard salami, chopped
- 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese, grated
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 Tablespoon water
Instructions
- Roll out puff pastry: Roll out each sheet of puff pastry into a rectangle approximately 11 inches by 16 inches to create an even surface for spreading the mustard and layering fillings.
- Spread mustard: Spread 2 tablespoons of coarse ground mustard evenly over each puff pastry sheet, covering the entire surface for a tangy flavor base.
- Add cheese and salami: Sprinkle half of the grated Colby Jack cheese and half of the chopped salami evenly over the mustard layer on each pastry sheet to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Roll the pastry: Carefully roll each puff pastry sheet into a log shape, starting from one long edge to the other, creating tight rolls without gaps.
- Seal the edges: Mix the egg and 1 tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Use a pastry brush to brush the egg wash along the edge of each rolled pastry log to help seal and hold the shape together.
- Chill the rolls: Wrap each rolled puff pastry log tightly in plastic wrap and place it on a flat surface in the refrigerator. Chill for at least one hour, or up to 24 hours, to firm up the dough for easier slicing.
- Slice into pinwheels: Remove the rolls from the fridge and unwrap. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into ½-inch thick pieces. Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, gently reshaping each slice into a neat circle if needed. Discard the ends.
- Brush with egg wash: Brush the tops of all pinwheels with the remaining egg wash to promote golden, glossy baking results.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake the pinwheels on the lined baking sheet for 25 minutes until they are puffed and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly, then serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Fully preheat the oven to 400°F before baking to ensure even puff and golden crust.
- Chilling the puff pastry rolls is essential to achieve clean slices and prevent filling from oozing out during baking.
- These pinwheels can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored refrigerated before baking.
- Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on exact ingredient brands and quantities used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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