Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels
These Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a party, or simply craving a snack, these pinwheels are sure to impress. With a crispy, flaky exterior and a cheesy, savory filling, they make for an irresistible bite. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that come together in no time.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
These Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served as appetizers, party snacks, or even a quick lunch option. The combination of pepperoni, cheese, and mustard wrapped in flaky puff pastry creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Additionally, they are customizable — you can add your favorite toppings or substitute ingredients as desired. With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is a winner in every kitchen.
What We’re Using
- 1 puff pastry sheet from a box of two, thawed according to package directions
- 1 tablespoon dijon or spicy mustard
- 42 (approx) pepperoni slices (half of a 6-ounce package)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan or asiago cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Tools of the Trade
- Rolling pin – To roll out the puff pastry for even thickness.
- Baking sheet – A standard size will work perfectly for baking the pinwheels.
- Parchment paper – For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – To slice the pinwheels into even pieces.
- Pastry brush – Optional, for brushing with egg wash if desired.
Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, take your puff pastry sheet out of the refrigerator and let it thaw according to the package instructions. Once thawed, lightly flour your work surface. Roll out the puff pastry with a rolling pin to ensure it’s even and about 1/8 inch thick.
Step 2: Spread the Mustard
Once the puff pastry is rolled out, spread the dijon or spicy mustard evenly over the surface. This will not only add flavor but also help the other ingredients stick.
Step 3: Layer the Fillings
Next, layer the pepperoni slices evenly on top of the mustard. You can overlap them slightly, ensuring every bite will be full of flavor. Then sprinkle the grated parmesan or asiago cheese over the pepperoni, followed by the Italian seasoning. This will give your pinwheels a delicious, aromatic flavor.
Step 4: Roll it Up
Starting from one end, carefully roll the puff pastry sheet tightly into a log. Make sure to roll it evenly to ensure uniform pinwheels. Once rolled, pinch the seams to seal it.
Step 5: Slice the Pinwheels
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the rolled puff pastry into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should get about 12-15 pinwheels depending on how thickly you sliced them.
Step 6: Bake the Pinwheels
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the pinwheels on it, leaving space between each one to allow for expansion. If desired, you can brush the tops with an egg wash for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. They are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Serve with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra touch.
Substitutions by Diet
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute pepperoni with sliced bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry available in stores.
- Cheese Alternatives: Substitute parmesan or asiago with vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Mustard Alternative: Use mayonnaise or your favorite sauce if mustard isn’t your thing.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is adequately thawed but still cold for the best texture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
- For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
How to Store & Reheat
To store your Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quick reheating option, but the oven will keep the pastry crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels up to the rolling step, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with these pinwheels?
They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a zesty dip. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use other toppings besides pepperoni?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings such as cooked sausage, spinach, or other deli meats. The possibilities are endless!
Similar Recipes
- Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
- Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
- Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
- Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Bites
Hungry for More?
If you loved these Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels, be sure to check out more delicious recipes on our blog. We’re always cooking up something new and exciting to satisfy your cravings. From savory snacks to sweet treats, there’s a world of flavor waiting for you.
These Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels are a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. With their simple preparation and mouthwatering taste, they are bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether for a gathering or just a cozy night in, these pinwheels will bring smiles and satisfied appetites. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Thaw the puff pastry and roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick on a floured surface.
- Spread the dijon or spicy mustard evenly over the rolled-out puff pastry.
- Layer the pepperoni slices on top of the mustard, followed by the grated cheese and Italian seasoning.
- Roll the puff pastry tightly into a log and pinch the seams to seal it.
- Slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels, yielding about 12-15 pinwheels.
- Place the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Thaw puff pastry adequately but keep it cold for best texture.
- Try different cheeses for unique flavor combinations.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
