These Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! Filled with cream cheese, spicy jalapenos, and wrapped in tortillas, they’re sure to make your taste buds dance.
Perfect for parties or a cozy movie night, these little bites are easy to make and hard to resist. I always sneak a few before they hit the platter—can you blame me? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough or Puff Pastry: Both are great choices for these pinwheels. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free dough. I usually prefer crescent roll dough for its fluffy texture and ease.
Cream Cheese: This is essential for that rich flavor. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, you can use low-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese. Some people even love to use flavored cream cheese like garlic or herb for an extra kick!
Jalapenos: Remove the seeds to make them milder. If you can’t find fresh jalapenos, pickled jalapenos can work too! If you want less heat, use a milder pepper like a banana pepper instead.
Bacon: While bacon adds a delightful crunch, you can swap it out for turkey bacon or leave it out completely for a vegetarian version. Some people use crumbled feta cheese instead to add that extra zesty flavor.
How Do I Roll and Cut the Pinwheels Without Making a Mess?
Rolling these pinwheels tightly is key to getting that perfect swirl. Here’s how I do it:
- Gently roll the dough from the long edge. Keep the roll tight, but don’t overstretch it. The filling should stay intact!
- As you roll, pinch the seam to seal it. This prevents the filling from leaking out while baking.
- Use a sharp knife for cutting. A serrated knife works well, and if you chill the log briefly before cutting, it makes it even easier.
- Slice about 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick. If they are too thick, they may not bake evenly. A uniform size ensures they cook just right.
Remember, practice makes perfect, and even if they don’t look perfect, they’ll taste delicious! Enjoy making your delicious jalapeno popper pinwheels!
Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 1 (8 oz) package refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry sheet
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4-5 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1-2 fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for color)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-18 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack at your gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley (if you’re using it), along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This creamy filling is what makes the pinwheels so delicious!
3. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, unfold and roll out the crescent roll dough or puff pastry into a rectangle, measuring about 9×12 inches. This dough will turn golden and flaky as it bakes!
4. Spread the Filling:
Now, using a spatula, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, making sure to leave about a 1/2 inch border along one long edge. This will help keep the filling from spilling out when you roll it up.
5. Add the Jalapenos:
Next, lay the thin jalapeno slices evenly over the cream cheese layer. Feel free to add as many as you like depending on how spicy you want them!
6. Roll It Up:
Starting from the long side opposite the border, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Make sure to pinch the edges to seal it well. This will keep that delicious filling inside!
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick rounds. Try to make them uniform in size for even baking!
8. Place on Baking Sheet:
Arrange the pinwheels flat on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. They’ll expand as they bake, so don’t worry if they look a bit snug at first!
9. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and fully cooked.
10. Cool & Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes before digging in. They can be served warm or at room temperature—both ways are delicious! Enjoy your savory jalapeno popper pinwheels!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for extra heat, or mozzarella for a milder flavor. A blend of your favorite cheeses works great too!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the pinwheels and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before popping them in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps them regain some crispiness!
Can I Freeze the Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
