If you’ve ever craved a snack that’s irresistibly cheesy, wonderfully flavorful, and perfect for sharing, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels Recipe. These delightful bites are packed with creamy cream cheese, melty mozzarella, and fresh spinach—all wrapped up in soft, golden tortillas. They’re easy to whip up, impressive enough for guests, and comforting enough for a cozy night in. Trust me, once you make these pinwheels, they’ll become your go-to appetizer or snack that everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels Recipe relies on a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that come together perfectly to create its signature flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the creamy base to the vibrant green spinach that adds color and a fresh twist.
- Fresh spinach: Using chopped fresh spinach gives the pinwheels a bright taste and lovely green flecks throughout.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese lends a smooth, creamy texture that binds all the ingredients deliciously.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, adding gooey cheesiness and a mild flavor that everyone loves.
- Garlic powder: Just a touch boosts the savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Flour tortillas: Large tortillas create the perfect canvas to roll the filling tightly while baking to golden perfection.
- Olive oil: Brushed on top for a crisp, inviting crust and subtle richness.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your pinwheels bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is beautifully blended and the spinach is evenly distributed, creating a creamy, flavorful filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread the cheese and spinach mixture evenly over each flour tortilla, careful to cover the whole surface but leaving a tiny border at the edges. Then, roll each tortilla up tightly from one end to the other to create a firm log packed with cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Slice and Prepare for Baking
Slice the rolled tortillas into bite-sized pinwheels, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Arrange each piece flat on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil to help them develop that perfect golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pinwheels for about 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling deliciously. Keep an eye on them near the end to make sure they don’t overbrown, then remove and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
While these pinwheels are fantastic on their own, sprinkling a little grated Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley on top before serving can elevate their look and flavor instantly. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze also adds a tangy contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
Serve your Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels Recipe alongside a crisp garden salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a warm, comforting meal. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh veggie platter or a tangy dipping sauce like marinara or ranch to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange the pinwheels on a large wooden board layered with fresh greens or edible flowers for a rustic, elegant touch. You can also thread a skewer through two or three pinwheels to create fun, handheld snack sticks that are perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay fresh and flavorful, making for a quick snack or lunch the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the prepared but unbaked pinwheels by laying them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze them for up to 1 month and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pinwheels in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delicious crunchy exterior intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture from the frozen spinach before mixing it in, so your pinwheels don’t become soggy.
What type of tortillas work best?
Large flour tortillas are ideal because they’re soft, pliable, and hold the filling well without cracking when rolled tightly.
Can I make these pinwheels vegan?
Yes! Swap the cream cheese and mozzarella for your favorite plant-based alternatives, and they’ll still be cheesy and delicious.
How do I prevent the pinwheels from being dry?
Brushing with olive oil before baking and making sure the cream cheese is well softened helps keep the pinwheels moist and flavorful.
Are Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels Recipe good for parties?
Definitely! They’re bite-sized, easy to eat, and loved by most, making them a perfect crowd-pleaser for parties and gatherings.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels Recipe a try because it’s one of those simple homemade snacks that feels special every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something comforting and cheesy, these pinwheels hit all the right notes. Warm, melty, and packed with fresh spinach, they’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection too!
Print
Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 pinwheels (6 servings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels featuring a creamy spinach and cheese filling rolled inside soft flour tortillas, baked to golden perfection. These bite-sized pinwheels make a perfect appetizer, snack, or party treat.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Base
- 4 large flour tortillas
Finishing
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the pinwheels.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a creamy spinach-cheese mixture.
- Assemble Pinwheels: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over each flour tortilla, ensuring full coverage. Then, roll each tortilla tightly from one end to the other to form a log shape.
- Slice and Arrange: Slice the rolled tortillas into bite-sized pinwheels, approximately 12 pieces in total. Place the pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Brush and Bake: Lightly brush the tops of the pinwheels with olive oil to help them brown nicely. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the pinwheels turn golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor and texture; frozen spinach can be used if well-drained.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature to make mixing easier.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with another mild melting cheese if desired.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
- These pinwheels can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
