Meet your new go-to appetizer: Cheesy Pesto Rolls! These golden little pastries are whirlwinds of creamy mozzarella, zesty basil pesto, and flaky, buttery puff pastry, all rolled up in a stunning spiral. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something scrumptious, Cheesy Pesto Rolls pack big flavor into every bite, making them downright irresistible and dangerously easy to whip up for any festive gathering or spontaneous snack moment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cheesy Pesto Rolls is in their simplicity — each ingredient truly makes its mark, bringing color, flavor, or texture to the party. Let’s look at what makes these golden spirals so delicious.
- Puff Pastry: Store-bought puff pastry cuts down on prep time but delivers unbeatable flaky layers and buttery taste.
- Basil Pesto: Adds bold, aromatic flavor and vibrant green color — homemade or high-quality store-bought both work wonders.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for that signature stretchy, gooey richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Brings sharp, salty depth that balances the mellow mozzarella perfectly.
- Egg: A simple egg wash gives these rolls a glossy, bakery-style finish.
- All-Purpose Flour: Just a dusting keeps your pastry from sticking and makes rolling a breeze.
- Fresh Basil (optional): A sprinkle on top not only looks gorgeous but also amplifies that fresh, herby aroma.
How to Make Cheesy Pesto Rolls
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Let your puff pastry thaw if it isn’t already, and have a lightly floured surface ready for rolling — this will ensure your pastry won’t stick and will roll out smoothly.
Step 2: Roll and Fill the Pastry
Unfold your puff pastry onto the floured surface and use a rolling pin to gently roll it into a 10×12-inch rectangle. Spread the basil pesto evenly over the pastry, leaving a half-inch border all around, which helps the filling stay put when rolling.
Step 3: Add the Cheesy Pesto Filling
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pesto-covered surface. This cheesy layer is the star — don’t be tempted to skimp here, as it creates that beautiful stretch and savory bite in every roll.
Step 4: Roll Up and Slice
Starting from the longer edge, roll the pastry up as tightly as you can into a log, similar to rolling up a cinnamon roll. This tight roll is key for perfectly defined Cheesy Pesto Rolls. Then, with a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 even pieces.
Step 5: Arrange, Egg Wash, and Bake
Place your rolls, cut sides facing up, onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for expansion. Brush the tops gently with the beaten egg to create a beautiful golden sheen as they bake. Pop them in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are puffed and gloriously golden.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Allow the Cheesy Pesto Rolls to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a plate. If you want to take things up a notch, scatter over a few torn basil leaves for an extra hit of freshness and color.
How to Serve Cheesy Pesto Rolls
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a classic and simple garnish — tear or chiffonade them just before serving for a vivid green pop. You might also consider a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra pesto for extra flair. Each little touch brightens both the look and the flavor of your Cheesy Pesto Rolls.
Side Dishes
Serve your Cheesy Pesto Rolls with a crisp salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette or a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. They’re also fantastic alongside antipasto plates, marinated olives, or roasted vegetables, making them true party all-stars or even a no-fuss lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the Cheesy Pesto Rolls on a platter as a holiday tree, sprinkle with extra herbs for “leaves,” and a sprinkle of Parmesan “snow.” For picnics or potlucks, pack them into a basket lined with a colorful napkin or serve them on skewers for a playful, shareable touch. A simple bakery paper cone also turns these rolls into a fun finger food for mingling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover Cheesy Pesto Rolls to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Cheesy Pesto Rolls, let them cool completely, then arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until firm. Transfer to freezer bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to one month, ready to brighten up any snack-time emergency.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the rolls on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes until piping hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can turn the pastry soggy and sad — the oven works wonders for reviving that flakiness!
FAQs
How do I prevent the rolls from unrolling as they bake?
Roll the pastry as tightly as possible and don’t overfill with pesto or cheese. You can gently squeeze the log before slicing, and when placing on the baking sheet, make sure the seam is tucked underneath — that sets the shape for perfect Cheesy Pesto Rolls.
Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto brings super fresh flavor and lets you control the garlic and cheese amounts. Both options work beautifully for Cheesy Pesto Rolls depending on your mood (or pantry situation).
Are there alternative cheeses I can use?
Yes! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic for their melt and flavor, feel free to experiment — provolone adds a smoky twist, or try feta for a tangy bite. Just avoid cheeses that release too much water, or the pastry may turn soggy.
Can I prepare Cheesy Pesto Rolls in advance?
Definitely. Assemble and slice the rolls, then refrigerate them (covered) on the baking tray for several hours — even overnight. When ready to bake, just add the egg wash and pop them in the oven for instant fresh-baked goodness.
What’s the easiest way to slice the rolled-up pastry?
Use a very sharp or even a serrated knife, and don’t rush — gentle, back-and-forth moves keep the spirals neat. If the pastry gets too soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up before cutting into those perfect Cheesy Pesto Rolls.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something delightfully cheesy, herby, and unfussy, don’t hesitate — Cheesy Pesto Rolls are such a treat, and ridiculously simple to make! Whether for parties, cozy nights in, or whenever you want to wow your tastebuds, give this recipe a try and let those fragrant spirals work their magic. Happy rolling!
Print
Cheesy Pesto Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Pesto Rolls are delicious puff pastry pinwheels filled with basil pesto and gooey cheeses, baked until golden and puffed. Perfect for parties or as a savory snack!
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet store-bought puff pastry (thawed)
Pesto Filling:
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
Cheese Mixture:
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- All-purpose flour (for dusting)
- Optional fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry into a 10×12-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Add Filling: Spread pesto, cheeses over pastry. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
- Bake: Place rolls on the sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Let cool slightly and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Best served warm as an appetizer or party snack.
- Try different pesto variations like sun-dried tomato for a flavor twist.
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