Name: Apricot-Prosciutto Pinwheels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 18
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 1.25 cups packed brown sugar; 0.33 cup unsalted butter; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Salt to taste; 1 pound dried apricots, chopped; 0.5 cup dark rum; 1 (17.3 ounce) package frozen puff pastry, thawed; 0.25 cup finely chopped walnuts; 0.5 pound thinly sliced prosciutto; 1 (8 ounce) ball fresh mozzarella, sliced; 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar, for drizzling

Embark on a culinary journey with these delightful pinwheels, where flaky puff pastry embraces a symphony of sweet apricot, savory prosciutto, and creamy mozzarella, all kissed with a tangy balsamic glaze. A perfect appetizer or light bite that tantalizes the taste buds.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Craft the Apricot Compote: In a skillet over low heat, melt brown sugar and butter. Stir in garlic, pepper flakes, and salt. Cook until sugar dissolves and the mixture bubbles gently, about 3-5 minutes. Incorporate chopped apricots and cook until they soften and plump up, approximately 5 minutes. Infuse with rum and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces into a thick, luscious syrup, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the compote to cool, roughly 15 minutes.

02

Step

Prepare the Pinwheels: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each sheet of puff pastry into equal-sized rectangles. Transfer each rectangle onto a sheet of parchment paper. Evenly spread the cooled apricot compote over the pastry, then sprinkle with finely chopped walnuts. Arrange prosciutto slices to completely cover the compote layer. Starting from one end, tightly roll up each rectangle like a jelly roll. Seal the edges with a touch of water, if necessary. Refrigerate the rolls until firm, about 30 minutes.

03

Step

Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

04

Step

Slice and Arrange: Remove the chilled pastry rolls from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into approximately 18 even slices. Place the slices, cut-sides down, onto the prepared baking sheet.

05

Step

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until the pastry is puffed and gloriously golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from oven and turn on the broiler.

06

Step

Add the Mozzarella: While the pastries are still slightly warm, top each with a slice of fresh mozzarella.

07

Step

Broil: Broil until the mozzarella melts and bubbles, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately with a delicate drizzle of balsamic vinegar.

For an extra layer of flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the pinwheels.
Ensure the compote is adequately cooled before spreading it onto the puff pastry to prevent it from becoming soggy.
If you're short on time, you can use store-bought apricot jam or preserves as a substitute for the homemade compote. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina, for a unique flavor profile.
These pinwheels are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.