Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage or diced veggies; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Inspired Meals

Whenever I think of game day, my mind immediately goes to these delightful Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels. I love how the flaky, buttery pastry pairs perfectly with the savory fillings I choose. They're easy to whip up, and I find they never last long at my gatherings! Whether it’s cheesy goodness or a spicy kick, these pinwheels are always a hit, bringing a delicious crunch to the party that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:09:35.716Z

Last year, I decided to try my hand at creating some appetizers for the Super Bowl, and I stumbled upon making these pinwheels. I remember experimenting with various fillings, and it was fun to see my family dive into the different flavors. I highly recommend mixing cream cheese with your favorite herbs and some cooked meats or veggies!

What really makes these pinwheels shine is the golden-brown finish you get from the puff pastry. I found that brushing them with egg wash before baking not only gives them that beautiful color but also enhances the flavor. They look fantastic on the table and disappear quickly!

        Why You Will Love These Pinwheels
        Flaky pastry that fluffs up beautifully in the oven
Customizable fillings to cater to everyone's taste
Perfect bite-sized pieces for easy snacking

      

Mastering the Puff Pastry Technique

Creating the perfect pinwheel starts with mastering the puff pastry. Make sure to work with cold pastry, as this helps achieve a good rise during baking. If your kitchen is warm, pop the pastry back in the refrigerator for a few minutes before rolling. A well-chilled pastry will create the desired flakiness when baked.

When rolling out the pastry, keep your work surface lightly floured to prevent sticking. Use a rolling pin and apply even pressure, ensuring that the pastry maintains an even thickness. This consistency is key for uniform cooking and prevents certain areas from becoming too crispy while others remain undercooked.

Filling Flavor Combinations

The beauty of these pinwheels lies in their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and fillings. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding feta cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Alternatively, for a southwest flair, try incorporating black beans, corn, and pepper jack cheese. Mixing flavors enhances texture and provides a delightful surprise in each bite.

If you're looking to cater to dietary restrictions, you can easily swap out the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative or skip the sausage and go full veggie with a mix of mushrooms and bell peppers. Just be sure to prep vegetables by sautéing them lightly to reduce moisture, which will help in preventing soggy pinwheels.

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage or diced veggies
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Mix the ingredients as desired to create unique flavors!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheese, sausage or veggies, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth.

Roll the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it out. Spread the filling evenly over the pastry.

Cut and Shape Pinwheels

Starting from one edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Slice the log into 1-inch wide pinwheels.

Bake

Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a shiny finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

These are best served warm, so enjoy them fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

Consider using various herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the filling. You can also substitute the sausage with cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels are perfect as an appetizer or snack, served alongside a variety of dips. A homemade marinara sauce or garlic aioli complements them beautifully. You can also serve them on a platter with olives, pickles, and sliced meats for an impressive charcuterie board.

Consider garnishing these pinwheels with fresh herbs like parsley or basil after baking for a pop of color and additional flavor. They also make fantastic leftovers, so feel free to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you're looking to make these pinwheels ahead of time, prepare them all the way through rolling and slicing. Then, lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a zip-top bag for easy storage. This way, you can bake them fresh whenever you have a craving or a gathering.

When ready to bake from frozen, preheat your oven and place the pinwheels directly on a baking sheet without thawing. You may need to add an extra 5-7 minutes to your baking time. Keep an eye on them until they are golden brown and puffed up!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator before baking.

→ Can I freeze pinwheels before baking?

Absolutely! Just freeze them before brushing with egg wash, and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

→ What variations can I try with the filling?

Feel free to get creative! You can combine different cheeses, add spinach, or even use spicy jalapeños for a kick.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best consumed within 2-3 days.