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Cheesy Onion Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

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3.9 from 30 reviews

These Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a savory, flaky appetizer featuring caramelized onions, creamy Swiss and cream cheese, and a hint of fresh thyme. Perfectly golden and crisp, these pinwheels are enhanced with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of flaky salt for an elegant touch.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 pinwheels

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian