Mushroom Puff Pastry Treats

This savory mushroom puff pastry pinwheel recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive appetizer that always disappears first at parties. The earthy mushrooms paired with rich cheese create irresistible spiral bites that look far more complicated than they actually are to make.

I first created these pinwheels for a holiday gathering when I needed something vegetarian that still felt special. They've since become my signature appetizer that friends request whenever we get together.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing and bringing out the mushrooms' natural flavors
• Onion: Adds essential sweetness that balances the earthiness of the mushrooms
• Mushrooms: The star ingredient providing meaty texture and rich umami flavor
• Mayonnaise: Might seem unusual but creates incredible richness and helps bind the filling
• Salt and black pepper: Basic but critical seasonings that enhance all other flavors
• Garlic clove: Adds aromatic depth look for firm bulbs with tight skin for freshest flavor
• Parmesan cheese: Brings saltiness and complexity choose freshly grated for best results
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that desirable stretchy texture when melted use low moisture variety for best results
• Puff pastry sheets: Provide the flaky golden exterior look for all butter varieties if available
• Egg wash: Creates that beautiful golden sheen on the finished pinwheels

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the vegetables:

Finely chop both mushrooms and onions to ensure even cooking and a smooth filling texture. The smaller the pieces the better your pinwheels will hold together when sliced.

Sauté the onions:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering then add chopped onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes stirring occasionally until the onions become translucent and just begin to soften.

Cook the mushrooms:

Add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet with the onions and continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes. The mushrooms will initially release a lot of moisture but continue cooking until that liquid evaporates and they begin to brown slightly which concentrates their flavor.

Create the filling mixture:

To the cooked mushrooms and onions add the mayonnaise salt pepper garlic and Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly to combine ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The filling should be cohesive but not wet.

Prepare the pastry:

Roll out each puff pastry sheet to approximately 30 x 40 cm creating a large rectangle. Work quickly as puff pastry becomes difficult to handle if it warms too much.

Assemble the pinwheels:

Spread half the mushroom filling in a thin even layer over each pastry sheet ensuring it reaches all edges. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the mushroom layer creating a base for the spiral effect.

Roll and prepare for baking:

Starting from the longer edge roll each pastry sheet tightly into a log shape. Place both logs onto a parchment lined baking sheet and brush generously with beaten egg to create that golden finish.

Slice and arrange:

With a sharp knife cut each log into 2.5 cm thick pinwheels. Arrange the cut pinwheels flat on the parchment paper with space between each to allow for expansion during baking.

Bake to golden perfection:

Place the pinwheels in a preheated oven at 185°C and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Look for puffed layers and a rich golden brown color which indicates they're properly baked.

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The first time I served these at a holiday party they disappeared so quickly I barely got to taste one myself. The combination of flaky pastry with the rich mushroom filling creates that perfect balance of textures that people simply cannot resist.

Make Ahead Magic

These pinwheels are perfect for entertaining because they can be prepped in advance. You can make the mushroom filling up to two days ahead and keep it refrigerated. Alternatively assemble the entire rolls wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. For even longer storage freeze the unsliced rolls then thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking. This flexibility makes holiday entertaining so much easier.

Customization Options

While this classic version is delicious the recipe adapts beautifully to variations. Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mushroom mixture for an aromatic twist. For additional texture mix in finely chopped walnuts or pine nuts. If you enjoy a bit of heat incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of diced jalapeño. The base recipe provides endless possibilities for personalization based on your preferences and what ingredients you have available.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pinwheels warm from the oven for the best texture and flavor experience. They make an excellent appetizer alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For a more substantial offering pair them with a creamy soup for a complete meal. During the holidays I arrange them on a serving platter with fresh herb sprigs for a festive presentation that always impresses guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mushroom mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before spreading it on the puff pastry.

→ What substitutes can I use for Parmesan cheese?

If you don't have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor profile.

→ Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry works wonderfully and adds a special touch. Ensure it is rolled out to the proper dimension before filling.

→ How do I store leftover pinwheels?

Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze the pinwheels before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.