Puff Pastry Pinwheels With Zucchini and Cheese: The Result Is Just Irresistible!

When a recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, it’s a keeper. These Zucchini and Cheese Pinwheels check all the boxes! Each bite delivers the perfect blend of melty cheese, tender zucchini, and ham, all wrapped in a crisp, golden pastry spiral.

What makes these pinwheels truly special is their simplicity, minimal ingredients and minimal prep. They are ideal for casual get-togethers, fancy brunch spreads, or even a fun addition to lunchboxes.

A Little Backstory on These Tasty Pinwheels

Puff pastry pinwheels with zucchini and cheese are a delicious and versatile appetizer with European culinary roots. Puff pastry itself dates back to the 17th century, with its origins often credited to French bakers who perfected the art of laminated dough.

The use of zucchini and cheese in this dish reflects Mediterranean influences, where fresh vegetables and dairy are popular. Also, zucchini, a type of summer squash, is widely used in Italian and French cuisines, often paired with cheese like ricotta, mozzarella, or feta for a balanced, creamy taste.

Pro Tips for The Best Zucchini and Cheese Pinwheels

• Chill your rolls before slicing. Freezing the rolled pastry for at least 15 minutes helps keep the slices clean and even.
• A dull knife will squash the roll instead of slicing through it smoothly so ensure you use a sharp knife when cutting.
• Too much cheese or zucchini can make the pinwheels difficult to roll and bake properly.
• Grate the Zucchini Finely because larger pieces of zucchini release more moisture, potentially making the pastry soggy.
• Let Them Cool Slightly before serving. This allows the cheese to set, preventing burns and helping maintain their shape when served.

What Other Fillings Can I Use?

This recipe is super versatile. Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or different herbs for a unique twist. You can also swap out ham for turkey or skip it altogether for a vegetarian version.

Can I Freeze the Baked Pinwheels?

Yes! Let them cool completely, then transfer them to the freezer. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven for a few minutes until warm and crispy again.

Are these Good for Kids?

Definitely! The mild flavors and fun shape make them a hit with little ones. You can even get kids involved in assembling and rolling the pastry.

Why Did my Pinwheels Unroll While Baking?

If your pinwheels are unraveling in the oven, it’s likely because the pastry wasn’t rolled tightly enough or the filling was too thick. Press the edges gently before baking to help them hold their shape.

Do I Need to Peel the Zucchini?

Nope! The skin is thin and contains a lot of nutrients. Just wash the zucchini well and grate it finely.

How to Make Zucchini and Cheese Pinwheels

Preheat the oven to 190°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a flat surface and evenly distribute the ham slices, then sprinkle the grated cheese and finely grated zucchini over the top.

Starting from one edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log shape. Then, place the roll in the freezer for about 15 minutes.

Use a very sharp knife to cut the roll into even slices. Lay the pinwheels flat on the prepared baking tray, leaving some space between them.

Bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.