Description
These Jalapeño & Cheese Pinwheels are a deliciously cheesy and spicy appetizer featuring a crisp puff pastry wrapped around a flavorful mixture of soft cheese, cheddar, and pickled jalapeños. Perfectly baked until golden and puffed, they make an irresistible snack or party finger food with a subtle kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Filling
- 150g soft cheese
- 3 cheese slices, cut into small chunks
- 125g red leicester cheese, coarsely grated
- 50g pickled jalapeños, roughly chopped
- Few shakes of hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pastry
- 320g ready-rolled puff pastry sheet
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the soft cheese, chopped cheese slices, grated red leicester, chopped pickled jalapeños, and hot sauce if using. Season well with salt and pepper, then mix thoroughly to create an even cheese filling.
- Assemble the pinwheels: Unroll the ready-rolled puff pastry sheet on a clean surface. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, ensuring it reaches right up to the edges. Carefully roll the pastry up tightly from one of the longer sides, forming a spiral log.
- Slice and chill: Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled pastry into 12 equal pinwheels. Place them spaced apart on a baking tray lined with baking parchment. Chill the pinwheels in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to help maintain their shape during baking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/gas mark 6. Brush the pinwheels lightly with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are golden, puffed up, and risen.
- Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool on the tray for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm as a tasty appetizer or snack.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of jalapeños or hot sauce to control the heat level.
- Chilling the pinwheels before baking helps them hold their shape and results in crispier pastry.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the oven for best results.
- If you prefer, substitute red leicester with mature cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: jalapeño pinwheels, cheese pinwheels, puff pastry snacks, spicy appetizers, party food, finger food
