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If you’re looking for a truly delightful treat that brings together flaky, buttery puff pastry with the warm, cozy sweetness of apple butter, you’ve got to try this Apple Butter Pinwheels Recipe. These pinwheels are a perfect blend of soft, spiced apple flavor and crunchy pecans, all wrapped up in golden, crispy layers that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re making them for a brunch gathering, a snack with tea, or a holiday dessert, these little hand-held pastries are sure to become a fast favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Apple Butter Pinwheels Recipe plays a starring role, whether it’s the puff pastry providing that flaky texture or the apple butter bringing rich, fruity sweetness. The pecans add a delightful crunch, and the simple icing finishes it all with a touch of elegance that’s hard to resist.
- 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed: The foundation of these pinwheels; use good-quality pastry for the best flaky, buttery result.
- ½ cup apple butter: Adds that luscious, spiced apple flavor that makes these pinwheels uniquely delicious.
- ¼ cup pecans: Chopped finely to add a nice crunch and nutty depth to each bite.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: For the sweet glaze that ties the whole pinwheel experience together.
- 2 ½ teaspoons water: Mixed with powdered sugar to create the perfect consistency for drizzling icing.
How to Make Apple Butter Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line two sheet pans with parchment paper. This sets the stage for perfectly baked pinwheels that won’t stick and will bake evenly.
Step 2: Chop the Pecans
Finely chop the pecans to ensure each bite has a little crunch without being overwhelming. Setting them aside now means you’ll be ready to assemble without any last-minute rush.
Step 3: Spread Apple Butter and Sprinkle Pecans
Roll out one sheet of puff pastry and spread half of the apple butter evenly across it, leaving about an inch free on one edge without apple butter. Sprinkle half the chopped pecans on top, distributing them evenly to get that perfect texture in every pinwheel.
Step 4: Roll and Chill the Pastry Logs
Roll the pastry carefully—starting at the edge opposite the apple-butter-free side—into a log. Keep the roll tight enough to hold together but gentle enough to avoid squeezing out the filling. Place seam side down on a plate and chill in the fridge for 20 minutes. Repeat this process with the second sheet of pastry, apple butter, and pecans.
Step 5: Slice Into Pinwheels
Once chilled, place each log seam side down on a cutting board and slice into 12 equal pieces per log, giving you 24 pinwheels total. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheets spaced at least one inch apart to allow room for puffing.
Step 6: Bake and Glaze
Bake the pinwheels for about 15 minutes until they turn a golden brown that’s simply irresistible. As they cool slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar and water into a smooth glaze. Drizzle generously over the warm pinwheels to add a sweet finish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
How to Serve Apple Butter Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top of the glazed pinwheels or dust lightly with cinnamon to enhance their autumnal vibe. A small sprig of fresh mint or a thin slice of apple on the side can also make the presentation pop.
Side Dishes
These apple butter pinwheels pair wonderfully with warm apple cider or a hot cup of coffee or tea. For brunch, serve alongside creamy yogurt or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness and add refreshing brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the pinwheels standing upright on a platter for a charming display at parties, or stack them in a tiered dessert stand for an elegant touch. They also make perfect “grab-and-go” finger food for picnics or holiday gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover apple butter pinwheels fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the pastry crisp while preserving the sweet filling.
Freezing
If you want to prepare the pinwheels in advance, freeze the unbaked logs after rolling and before slicing. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, freeze, and thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to bake for fresh-from-the-oven goodness.
Reheating
Warm leftover pinwheels in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5–7 minutes. This will refresh their crispiness without drying them out, reviving that scrumptious flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade apple butter in this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade apple butter adds a wonderful homemade touch and lets you tailor the sweetness and spice to your liking.
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can work nicely too. Just chop them finely to keep the texture consistent throughout the pinwheels.
Can these be made gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Apple Butter Pinwheels Recipe, use gluten-free puff pastry. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Is it possible to make these pinwheels vegan?
Use a plant-based puff pastry and ensure your apple butter contains no animal products. The icing can be made vegan by using powdered sugar mixed with a little plant-based milk instead of water for creaminess.
How do I know when the pinwheels are done baking?
Look for a golden brown color and flaky layers that puff up nicely. They should feel firm but light when you gently press one.
Final Thoughts
Making these Apple Butter Pinwheels Recipe at home is such a joy because they’re quick to whip up yet deliver incredible flavor and texture that feels special. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these pinwheels bring a warm, comforting vibe to any moment. I can’t wait for you to try them and hear how much everyone loves them!
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Apple Butter Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 pinwheels
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and flaky Apple Butter Pinwheels made with puff pastry, sweet apple butter, and crunchy pecans, finished with a light powdered sugar glaze. Perfect for a cozy snack or dessert that bakes up golden and irresistibly flaky in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Pastry and Filling
- 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
- ½ cup apple butter
- ¼ cup pecans, finely chopped
Glaze
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons water
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400º F (200º C). Line two sheet pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare pecans: Finely chop the pecans and set them aside for later use.
- Assemble first pinwheel log: Roll out one thawed puff pastry sheet on a clean surface. Spread 4 tablespoons (half) of the apple butter evenly over the pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border on one end without apple butter. Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans evenly over the apple butter.
- Roll up dough: Starting from the end opposite the bare border, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log. The goal is to keep it snug without squeezing out the filling. Place the seam side down on a plate or pan, and refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up. Repeat this process with the second puff pastry sheet and remaining apple butter and pecans.
- Slice pinwheels: Remove both logs from the refrigerator. Place each log seam-side down on a cutting board and cut evenly into 12 pinwheels per log, giving you 24 total. Space them at least 1 inch apart on the prepared sheet pans.
- Bake: Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Prepare glaze: While the pinwheels bake, whisk together powdered sugar and water in a small bowl until smooth to form a light icing.
- Finish and serve: Let the baked pinwheels cool for a few minutes, then drizzle the glaze evenly over them. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Make ahead: Pinwheel logs can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking.
- Freezing: Cut pinwheels can be frozen on a baking sheet, then stored in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
