Ingredients
Caramelized Onion Filling
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving
Pastry & Cheese
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- Flour, for dusting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 6 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
Finishing Touches
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste (optional)
- Flaky salt, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the brown sugar and fresh thyme leaves and continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a roughly 12×12 inch square. This will make it easier to spread the fillings evenly.
- Mix the Cheese Spread: In a small bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese with the Dijon mustard until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent spillage.
- Add the Filling: Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer. Then, distribute the caramelized onions and thyme evenly over the cheese layer.
- Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the puff pastry sheet from one edge to the other into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into approximately 12 pinwheels, each about 1-inch thick.
- Bake the Pinwheels: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the pinwheels cut side up on the baking sheet, spaced slightly apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with flaky salt, freshly cracked black pepper (if using), and additional fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.
- You can swap Swiss cheese with Gruyere or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- The caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Pinwheels are best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- For a crispier texture, place the pinwheels on the middle rack of the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian