Can You Leave Toothpicks in Your Pinwheels When You Bake Them?

By: Christina Kalinowski

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Toothpicks are a nifty way to hold stuffed entrees together while they bake. Pinwheels in particular, which are pounded-thin cuts of meat layered with ingredients and rolled into decorative wheels, benefit from the insertion of a toothpick to help retain their shape while cooking. Before you insert a toothpick into your picture-perfect pinwheels, soak them in water to prevent burning.

Prepping Your Toothpicks for Pinwheels

Soak your toothpicks for at least 20 minutes in water before inserting them into your pinwheels. The moisture that is absorbed while soaking will prevent the toothpicks from burning during the cooking process. Feel free to serve your pinwheels with the toothpicks still inserted, as the water will have prevented them from forming an unappetizing singe.