Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! With a creamy filling wrapped in soft tortillas, they’re perfect for parties or a quick treat. You can fill them with all kinds of goodies!
Making these is so easy, it’s almost like a craft project! I love to whip them up for movie nights. Pair them with some salsa, and you’re ready to munch away! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: I use large flour tortillas because they roll up easily. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using corn tortillas. They’ll work just as well, though they might be a bit more fragile.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives the best creamy texture. If you’re aiming for healthier options, low-fat cream cheese works too. For a fun twist, you can also try flavored cream cheeses like herb or garlic.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and colorful, they add crunch. You could substitute with finely diced cucumbers or even shredded carrots for a different flavor and texture.
Herbs: Parsley or chives are my go-tos for freshness! If you want a bolder flavor, you could swap for dill, or even use spinach for a pleasant touch.
Black Olives: These add a nice briny flavor. If you’re not an olive fan, try chopped sun-dried tomatoes or jalapeños for a kick.
How Do You Get the Perfect Roll?
Rolling the tortillas tightly is important to ensure they hold together. Here’s how to do it right:
- Spread the filling evenly: Make sure the cream cheese mix reaches the edges so you get the filling in every bite.
- Roll firmly but gently: Start at one edge, keeping it tight as you roll to avoid gaps and ensure everything stays in place.
- Chill for firmness: Wrapping them in plastic wrap not only keeps them fresh but also helps them keep their shape as they cool.
After chilling, slicing with a sharp knife ensures clean cuts. A little trick is to dip the knife in warm water for easier slicing!
Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large flour tortillas (8-inch size)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley or chives
- 2 tbsp finely chopped black olives
- 1/4 cup finely shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll need to chill the pinwheels in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. So, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes before they’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, diced red bell pepper, chopped parsley (or chives), chopped black olives, and shredded cheese if you’re using it. Add the garlic powder and onion powder. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything until it’s well combined. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste for an extra kick!
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
Take one tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface, like a cutting board. Spread about 1/4 of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla, making sure to cover the whole surface from edge to edge.
3. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly to form a log shape. Try to keep it as tight as possible without squishing the filling out!
4. Repeat the Process:
Do the same with the remaining tortillas and cream cheese mixture. You should end up with several rolled tortillas filled with that creamy goodness!
5. Chill the Pinwheels:
Wrap each rolled tortilla log tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the pinwheels firm up and makes them easier to slice.
6. Slice and Serve:
Once chilled, take the wraps out of the fridge and unwrap them. Use a sharp knife to slice each log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. If you find it’s hard to slice, dipping your knife in warm water can help!
7. Enjoy:
Arrange the lovely pinwheels on a serving platter. They’re delicious served chilled or at room temperature. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a quick snack!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Cream Cheese Pinwheels! They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use a Different Type of Tortilla?
Absolutely! While flour tortillas work best for their flexibility, you can use whole wheat, spinach, or even gluten-free tortillas if preferred. Just ensure they are large enough to hold the filling properly!
How Can I Make These Pinwheels Vegetarian?
These pinwheels are already vegetarian-friendly! If you want to personalize them further, feel free to omit the black olives or add additional veggies like cucumbers or shredded carrots for more crunch and flavor.
What Should I Do with Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for great next-day snacks or additions to lunch boxes!
Can I Freeze the Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze Cream Cheese Pinwheels! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving!
