Dive into the world of easy and delightful baking with these Quick and Crispy Pastry Pinwheels, a perfect project for an afternoon of fun, especially if you have little helpers in the kitchen. Utilizing ready-made puff pastry, these pinwheels come together in no time, offering a crisp, flaky texture with a sweet and creamy filling that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The combination of smooth cream cheese and your choice of jam or fresh fruit makes each bite a delightful surprise, turning these pinwheels into a versatile snack for any occasion. Whether served alongside coffee or as a sweet treat for the kids, these pastry pinwheels are a guaranteed hit.
Why You’ll Love This: The simplicity and quick preparation time make these Pastry Pinwheels a go-to recipe for busy days or when you’re in need of a last-minute dessert. The process is so straightforward that it invites creativity and participation from bakers of all ages, making it a fun kitchen activity. The versatility of the filling allows you to customize the pinwheels to your liking, whether you prefer the tanginess of strawberry jam or the sweetness of fresh fruits. Baked to golden perfection, these treats offer a delightful texture contrast that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Perfect Occasion: These pastry pinwheels are perfect for casual gatherings, children’s parties, or as a light dessert after a family dinner. They’re also great for packing into picnic baskets or as a sweet snack in lunchboxes. With their attractive appearance and delicious taste, these pinwheels are sure to brighten any tea time or coffee break, making them a wonderful addition to any event.
Decoration Tips: For a beautiful finish, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds an extra touch of sweetness and elegance. If you’re feeling creative, you can drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled pinwheels for added shine and flavor. To make them even more appealing, serve them on a platter garnished with fresh berries or mint leaves, enhancing their visual appeal and making them irresistible to guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of ready-made puff pastry
- 200g cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg yolk
- A pinch of vanilla sugar
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam (or any jam/fruit of choice)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Roll out the puff pastry and cut into 8 squares.
- Make cuts from each corner of the squares towards the center, leaving the middle intact.
- Mix cream cheese with egg yolk, vanilla sugar, and powdered sugar. Place the mixture in a piping bag.
- Pipe a dollop of cream cheese mixture and a dollop of jam on the center of each square.
- Fold every other cut edge towards the center to form a pinwheel shape. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush each pinwheel with beaten egg or milk. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Let cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy these Quick and Crispy Pastry Pinwheels, a playful and tasty treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, perfect for sharing the joy of baking and the sweetness of life with loved ones.
