Pepperoni Pinwheels Appetizer

Introduction

I recently made these Pepperoni Pinwheels for a family gathering, and they were an absolute hit! The combination of soft tortillas, creamy filling, melty cheese, and savory pepperoni made for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. They’re quick and easy to assemble, and the best part is that you can make them ahead of time and have them ready to serve when guests arrive. My family couldn’t stop talking about how delicious and satisfying these pinwheels are. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just need a fun snack for the weekend, these pepperoni pinwheels are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Pepperoni Pinwheels

Pepperoni Pinwheels are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. They’re simple to make, require only a few ingredients, and are packed with flavor. These pinwheels have the taste of a pepperoni pizza wrapped up in a convenient, bite-sized snack that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a party, a family get-together, or just need an easy treat for a movie night, these pinwheels are sure to please. They are also versatile – you can adjust the toppings to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, making them a perfect dish to serve to a wide range of guests. If you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe that’s guaranteed to impress, these pepperoni pinwheels are just what you need.

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup pizza sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• 24 slices of pepperoni (or more, as needed)

Instructions

1. Mix the filling:
   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pizza sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
2. Assemble the pinwheels:
   • Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread 1/4 of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface of the tortilla.
3. Add the toppings:
   • Sprinkle 2 oz of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tortilla. Arrange 6 slices of pepperoni in a single layer on top of the cheese.
4. Roll and chill:
   • Tightly roll up the tortilla from one side to the other. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the pinwheels stay intact when sliced.
5. Slice and serve:
   • Remove the roll from the refrigerator and unwrap the plastic. Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into 1-inch slices. Arrange the pinwheels flat on a serving platter.
6. Enjoy:
   • Serve these cold pepperoni pizza pinwheels as a party appetizer or snack. Enjoy!

Pro Tip: You can prepare these pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 300 per serving (about 5 pinwheels per serving)

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 1 hour
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve them as an appetizer at parties, gatherings, or family get-togethers.
• Enjoy them with a side of marinara or pizza dipping sauce for extra flavor.
• Pair them with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve them as a snack with a cold drink like soda or iced tea.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days, and serve them as a quick snack.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh tortillas: Fresh, soft tortillas make rolling the pinwheels much easier and ensure a more delicious texture.
2. Adjust the toppings: You can use more or less pepperoni and cheese, depending on your personal preference.
3. Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
4. Try different sauces: If you’re not a fan of pizza sauce, you can use ranch dressing or marinara sauce as a base for the filling.
5. Use a serrated knife: When slicing the pinwheels, use a serrated knife to get cleaner, more even slices.

FAQ

1. Can I use whole wheat tortillas instead of flour tortillas? Yes, whole wheat tortillas can be used as a healthier alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
2. Can I make these pinwheels vegetarian? Absolutely! You can omit the pepperoni and replace it with vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian option.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use other types of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend if you prefer.
4. Can I make these pinwheels spicy? Yes, to make the pinwheels spicier, you can add crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or even spicy pepperoni.
5. How far in advance can I make these pinwheels? You can prepare the pinwheels up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just keep them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator.
6. Can I freeze these pinwheels? Yes, you can freeze the pinwheels before slicing. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw them in the refrigerator and slice.
7. Can I use a low-fat cream cheese option? Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese for a lighter version of this recipe.
8. Do I have to refrigerate the pinwheels? Yes, chilling the pinwheels for at least 1 hour helps them set and makes them easier to slice.
9. Can I serve them warm? These pinwheels are typically served cold, but you can warm them in the oven for a few minutes if you prefer a warm snack.
10. How can I make these pinwheels gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free tortillas to make the pinwheels gluten-free.

Conclusion

These Pepperoni Pinwheels are an easy and delicious appetizer that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family meal, or just looking for a fun snack, these pinwheels are the perfect choice. They’re quick to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and are full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty treat that’s sure to please a crowd. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make them your own!

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