Pinwheels

Pinwheels: A Perfect Savory Appetizer for Any Occasion

Pinwheels are a delightful and versatile appetizer that can elevate any gathering, from casual family dinners to elegant parties. These bite-sized treats are both visually appealing and delicious, making them perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort. With their spiral shape filled with savory or sweet ingredients, pinwheels offer a fun and creative way to enjoy a variety of flavors wrapped in a soft, flaky exterior.

What makes pinwheels truly special is their adaptability — they can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic deli meat and cheese combination, a fresh veggie-packed snack, or a sweet dessert version, pinwheels offer a perfect canvas. This recipe focuses on a savory version that features a flavorful cream cheese spread paired with ham and spinach, rolled up in a flaky puff pastry that bakes to golden perfection. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be made ahead, making it a convenient option for busy hosts.

Ingredients

• For the Pinwheel Filling:
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup (30 g) finely chopped fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup (35 g) finely chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 slices deli ham or turkey (optional, can substitute with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version)
• For the Dough:
• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (about 8×8 inches)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. On a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped spinach, green onions, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire puff pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Layer the deli ham slices evenly over the cream cheese spread. For a vegetarian version, replace ham with thinly sliced roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
6. Starting from one edge, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log, ensuring the filling stays inside.
7. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled log into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick pinwheels. You should get about 12 to 14 pinwheels.
8. Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for expansion.
9. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden shine when baked.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let the pinwheels cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
12. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or a spicy mayo.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 12-14 pinwheels
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Tips & Variations

• Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth filling without lumps.
• To prevent soggy bottoms, make sure your puff pastry is well chilled before baking.
• Customize the filling with your favorite meats, cheeses, or vegetables to suit dietary preferences.
• For extra crispiness, bake on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone.
• Pinwheels can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to crisp up before serving.

Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Pinwheels are a fantastic appetizer that combine simplicity, flavor, and eye-catching presentation. Whether you are hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty snack, this recipe offers a delicious and customizable option that will surely please a crowd. Pair your pinwheels with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy aioli to enhance their flavor even more.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the ease of creating a delightful treat that looks impressive but is incredibly simple to make. Don’t forget to share your pinwheel creations and cooking stories in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!