Pin It Flaky puff pastry spirals filled with creamy Nutella, sautéed caramel apples, and a touch of cinnamon, perfect for a sweet breakfast or festive dessert.
The first time I made these pinwheels, my kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of cinnamon apples and pastry. They're always a hit with guests and make any morning feel special.
Ingredients
- Apples: 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- Light brown sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: Pinch
- Puff pastry: 1 sheet (about 9x13 inches), thawed
- Nutella or chocolate-hazelnut spread: 1/3 cup
- Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
- Caramel sauce: 4 tablespoons, store-bought or homemade
- Chopped toasted hazelnuts or pecans (optional): 2 tablespoons
- Powdered sugar (optional): For dusting
Instructions
- Prepare oven and baking sheet:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook apples:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until apples are soft and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, unroll puff pastry into a rectangle. Spread Nutella evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border on all edges.
- Fill pastry:
- Evenly distribute the cooled caramelized apples over the Nutella. Sprinkle with optional toasted nuts if using.
- Form pinwheels:
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the pastry into a log. With a sharp knife, slice into 12 equal pinwheels.
- Arrange and bake:
- Arrange pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 1–2 inches apart. Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Add toppings:
- Drizzle warm pinwheels with caramel sauce and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pin It I love making these with my family on weekends. Everyone gathers around to help with rolling the pastry and sneaking tastes of caramel apples.
Required Tools
You'll need a skillet, baking sheet, parchment paper, sharp knife, pastry brush, and mixing bowl for easy preparation.
Allergen Information
This recipe includes wheat, milk, eggs, and tree nuts if using Nutella or nuts. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each pinwheel contains approximately 195 calories, 10 g fat, 25 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Pin It Serve these pinwheels warm for the best flavor and gooey texture. They make a delightful treat for holidays or any special morning!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apples work best?
Tart varieties like Granny Smith balance the sweetness, but any firm apple will caramelize nicely.
- → Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Yes, homemade caramel sauce adds depth and freshness. Store-bought options also work well.
- → Are nuts required in the filling?
No, nuts are optional—add them for crunch or omit if preferred. Toasted hazelnuts or pecans both fit.
- → Is thawing puff pastry necessary?
Thawing ensures easy rolling and prevents cracks. Leave pastry at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes.
- → How to store pinwheels?
Cool completely, then keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly before serving.
- → Can pears be substituted for apples?
Absolutely—pears offer a delicate twist, following the same caramelizing method as apples.