Pepperoni Pizza Pinwheels

These Pepperoni Pizza Pinwheels are the perfect bite-sized snack that combines all the beloved flavors of a traditional pizza into an easy-to-make and irresistibly delicious treat. With flaky puff pastry, gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and zesty pizza sauce, these pinwheels will be a hit at any gathering or as a fun family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pepperoni Pizza Pinwheels offer a fun twist on your favorite pizza, transforming it into a portable, bite-sized snack. The crispy puff pastry provides the perfect base, while the combination of mozzarella, pepperoni, and Italian seasonings delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers, snacks, or party food, they’re sure to please a crowd. Plus, they come together quickly with minimal ingredients, making them ideal for a busy weeknight or a weekend treat.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• 1/3 cup pizza sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Optional: Marinara sauce for dipping

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
   Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to smooth out any creases in the dough.

3. Spread the Sauce:
   Spread an even layer of pizza sauce over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

4. Add the Toppings:
   Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Layer the pepperoni slices on top, followed by Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

5. Roll It Up:
   Starting from one edge, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log shape. Seal the edge with a little water to keep the roll from unraveling.

6. Slice the Pinwheels:
   Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch slices. Place each slice flat on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

7. Brush with Egg Wash:
   Lightly brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish when baked.

8. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.

9. Cool and Serve:
   Let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra touch, serve with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 18 minutes

• Total Time: 33 minutes

• Servings: 10-12 pinwheels

• Calories: Approximately 150-180 per pinwheel

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the pepperoni with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.

• Spicy Twist: Add some red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni to give the pinwheels a kick.

• Different Cheese: Try using a blend of cheeses, like cheddar or provolone, for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the pinwheels on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, though they won’t stay as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes, you can substitute homemade pizza dough, but puff pastry gives these pinwheels their signature flakiness and crispiness.

2. Can I freeze the pinwheels before baking?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked pinwheels for up to 3 months. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

3. Can I use a different type of sauce?

Yes! You can substitute pizza sauce with marinara sauce or even pesto for a unique twist.

4. How do I know when the pinwheels are done baking?

The pinwheels are done when the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up. If you see this, they’re ready to enjoy.

5. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

You can prepare the pinwheels and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just brush with egg wash and bake when ready.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives for both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

7. How can I make these pinwheels even crispier?

For extra crispiness, brush the pinwheels with olive oil instead of the egg wash before baking.

8. Can I use other meats besides pepperoni?

Yes, you can use sausage or chicken as an alternative to pepperoni.

9. Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! These Pepperoni Pizza Pinwheels are perfect for kids, as they are easy to eat and packed with familiar flavors.

10. What can I serve these pinwheels with?

You can serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a fresh salad to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Pizza Pinwheels are an easy, crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer that delivers all the delicious flavors of pizza in a fun, portable form. Whether you’re feeding a group or looking for a quick snack, these pinwheels are sure to satisfy. They’re simple to make, versatile, and incredibly tasty—perfect for any occasion!