Air Fryer Pesto Pinwheels
Air Fryer Pesto Pinwheels are flaky, golden puff pastry spirals filled with flavorful basil pesto, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. This easy air fryer appetizer is perfect for parties, game days, snacks, and quick lunches.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet about 8 oz frozen puff pastry, thawed
- ¼ cup basil pesto
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg beaten (optional, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pastry: Thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions until pliable but still cool. Place it on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it into an even rectangle if needed.
- Add the filling: Spread the basil pesto evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border along one edge. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper over the pesto.
- Roll and slice: Starting from the long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log and gently seal the edge. Slice into rounds approximately ½ inch thick. Chill the roll briefly if the pastry becomes too soft.
- Arrange in the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), if recommended for your model. Place the pinwheels in a single layer with space between them. Brush lightly with beaten egg if desired.
- Air fry and serve: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 8–12 minutes, checking early, until puffed and golden and the pastry is cooked through. Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Keep the pastry cool: Cold puff pastry is easier to handle and produces better flaky layers.
- Don't overfill: Too much pesto or cheese can leak out during cooking and make the centers soggy.
- Slice evenly: Similar-sized pinwheels cook more evenly in the air fryer.
- Leave space: Arrange the pinwheels in a single layer and cook in batches if necessary.
- Check early: Air fryer models vary, so begin checking after 8 minutes.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze cooled pinwheels for up to 2 months for best quality.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 2–4 minutes, checking until warm and crisp.
Nutrition Facts
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2 g
- Total Sugars: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
Note: These are estimated values per serving, based on the recipe making four servings. Actual nutrition may vary depending on the puff pastry, pesto, cheese brands, and final yield