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Pesto Pinwheels Recipe

4.8 from 136 reviews

Delicious and easy-to-make Pesto Pinwheels featuring a tender pizza dough rolled with flavorful pesto and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party bite, these golden-baked pinwheels bring Italian-inspired flavors in a fun, bite-sized form.

Ingredients

Scale

Pinwheel Ingredients

  • 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray an 8-inch square baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to prepare for baking.
  2. Roll Out Dough: Roll out the tube of refrigerated pizza dough into a 16 x 8-inch rectangle on a clean surface, creating an even base for spreading the filling.
  3. Spread Pesto: Evenly spread 1/2 cup of pesto over the rolled-out dough, taking care to leave a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border along one long edge free of pesto for easier rolling.
  4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the top of the pesto with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese and 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella, distributing the cheeses evenly to ensure every pinwheel is flavorful.
  5. Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge opposite the plain border, gently roll the dough into a tight log. Use a serrated knife to cut the roll into 16 even pinwheels, which will hold their shape well while baking.
  6. Arrange and Bake: Place the pinwheels cut side up in the prepared baking pan, arranging them in 4 rows of 4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  7. Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving warm as a delightful snack or appetizer.

Notes

  • Using a serrated knife helps to cut the pinwheels cleanly without squishing the dough.
  • You can substitute homemade pizza dough if preferred, adjusting the shape and thickness accordingly.
  • For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes to the pesto before spreading.
  • Pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently in the oven.
  • If refrigerated pizza dough is unavailable, you can thaw frozen dough overnight in the fridge and roll out as directed.

Keywords: Pesto Pinwheels, Pesto Appetizer, Pizza Dough Snack, Cheese Pinwheels, Easy Party Food, Italian Appetizers