Cream Cheese Pinwheels are easy and fun to make! They’re rolled tortillas filled with creamy cheese and your favorite toppings. Perfect for snacks or parties!
These little rolls are colorful and tasty. I love mixing in veggies or deli meats for extra flavor. They make a great no-fuss appetizer that everyone enjoys. 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the star ingredient! It provides a creamy base for the pinwheels. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but a similar taste.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice tang. Mild, sharp, or even pepper jack can be used, depending on your preference. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free cream cheese and nut-based cheese.
Green Onions: These give a fresh flavor and a pop of color. If you don’t have green onions, chives or finely chopped red onions work well too. For less onion flavor, skip them entirely!
Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and crunch. You can substitute with chopped cucumbers, carrots, or any other preferred veggie if you want a change.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are easy to work with, but you can use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a healthier spin. Gluten-free tortillas are also a great option!
How Do I Keep the Pinwheels from Falling Apart When Slicing?
To ensure your pinwheels stay intact, follow these helpful tips:
- Make sure the cream cheese is well softened. This makes spreading easier and helps glue the ingredients together.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas! Use just enough filling to cover the surface. This helps in rolling them tightly without spilling over.
- Refrigerate the rolled tortillas for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm them up, making slicing easier.
- Use a sharp knife to cut through the rolls. Clean it between cuts if needed to achieve neat slices.
With these tips and adjustments, your Cream Cheese Pinwheels will turn out beautifully every time! Enjoy making and sharing them!
Delicious Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 1 tbsp fresh finely chopped parsley
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 large flour tortillas (8-inch size)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. With just a little time and effort, you’ll have a delicious, fun snack or appetizer ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, red bell pepper, parsley, garlic powder, and salt. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s all well combined and creamy. This will be the flavorful filling for your pinwheels!
2. Spread the Mixture on Tortillas:
Take one tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread about 1/4 of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface of the tortilla, leaving a small margin along the edges to make rolling easier. Make sure to cover the tortilla as evenly as possible!
3. Roll the Tortilla:
Starting at one edge of the tortilla, carefully roll it up tightly into a log shape. Try to keep it as tight as you can without tearing the tortilla. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and cream cheese mixture to create more pinwheels.
4. Chill the Rolled Tortillas:
Once all the tortillas are rolled, wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the rolls set, making it easier to slice them into pinwheels.
5. Slice the Pinwheels:
After the chilling period, unwrap the logs and use a sharp knife to slice each rolled tortilla into 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick pinwheels. Aim for even slices to make them look nice on your serving platter!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter. You can garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like for a pop of color. Serve them chilled or at room temperature to your friends and family and watch them disappear!
These creamy, flavorful pinwheels are perfect as an easy appetizer or snack. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute cheddar cheese with any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a dairy-free cheese. Just ensure it’s a cheese that melts well and complements the cream cheese.
What Other Fillings Can I Add?
You can get creative with the fillings! Consider adding cooked bacon, deli meats, spinach, or various herbs and spices. Just make sure any added ingredients are finely chopped to keep the pinwheels easy to roll and slice.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or return them to room temperature before serving.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the pinwheels a day ahead of time! Just prepare, roll, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Keep them chilled until you’re ready to slice and serve.