Pepperoni Pinwheels

Pepperoni pinwheels are delicious, bite-sized appetizers made with buttery puff pastry, zesty marinara sauce, savory pepperoni, and gooey melted cheese. These pinwheels are perfect for game day, parties, or a quick snack. They are easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and packed with Italian flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Uses store-bought puff pastry for minimal prep.
• Perfect Party Food: Bite-sized and easy to eat.
• Full of Flavor: Combines classic pizza ingredients in a fun and unique form.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with different fillings and flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 20-25 slices of pepperoni
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (about 10×12 inches).
3. Add the Fillings: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella cheese, then layer the pepperoni slices. Top with Parmesan and Italian seasoning if using.
4. Roll the Pastry: Starting from one long side, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 1-inch pinwheels.
5. Brush with Egg Wash: Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each pinwheel with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.
6. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
7. Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Serve with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-15 pinwheels
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace pepperoni with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers.
• Different Cheeses: Try provolone, cheddar, or a mix of Italian cheeses.
• Spicy Version: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni.
• Herb Twist: Add fresh basil or a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat in an air fryer for a crispier finish.
• Freezing: Freeze the uncooked pinwheels on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I make pepperoni pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them unbaked and cook them directly from frozen.

What can I use instead of puff pastry?

You can use crescent roll dough or pizza dough as an alternative, though the texture will be slightly different.

How do I keep the pinwheels from unrolling during baking?

Make sure to roll the pastry tightly and chill the rolled log for 10-15 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.

Can I use different sauces?

Yes, you can use Alfredo sauce, garlic butter, or even pesto instead of marinara for a different flavor profile.

Are these pinwheels good for kids?

Absolutely! Kids love the pizza flavors, and the bite-sized portions are perfect for little hands.

Can I add vegetables to these pinwheels?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

Do I need to defrost the puff pastry before using?

Yes, allow the puff pastry to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or on the counter for about 30 minutes until pliable.

What can I serve with pepperoni pinwheels?

Serve them with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing for dipping. They also pair well with a fresh green salad.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free puff pastry or pizza dough to accommodate dietary restrictions.

How can I make these pinwheels extra crispy?

For a crispier result, bake on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to allow air circulation under the pinwheels.

Conclusion

Pepperoni pinwheels are a simple and delicious appetizer that brings all the classic pizza flavors in a fun and easy-to-eat form. Perfect for parties, game days, or a quick snack, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Give this recipe a try and watch them disappear from the plate in no time!

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