Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels are cheesy, spicy bites that you can roll up and slice for a fun snack! With cream cheese and jalapenos, they pack a tasty punch!
The best part? They’re super easy to make! I love serving them at parties and watching everyone enjoy these little spirals of goodness! You might want to make a double batch! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the creamy base of the pinwheels. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but a similar taste. It’s easier to spread too!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice bite. Feel free to mix it up by using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra spice. Both melt well and add lovely flavor.
Bacon: I love the smoky crunch that bacon adds, but you can use turkey bacon or even tempeh bacon for a lighter or vegetarian version. Just make sure it’s cooked and chopped before adding it to the mix!
Jalapenos: For heat, fresh jalapenos are key. If you want less spice, use just a couple or substitute with mild banana peppers. Roasted red peppers can work for a sweeter flavor without the heat.
Tortillas: I prefer large flour tortillas for ease of rolling. Whole wheat tortillas can be used for a healthier choice or corn tortillas for gluten-free options, though they might crack when rolling.
How Do I Roll the Perfect Pinwheel Without It Falling Apart?
Rolling the pinwheels tightly is crucial to keep them intact. Here’s how you can achieve that:
- Start with a smooth surface; this helps keep the tortilla steady.
- Spread the filling evenly, leaving a little edge without filling to avoid overflow when rolling.
- Begin rolling from one end, keeping it tight yet gentle to avoid tearing. A firm but careful grip helps!
- Once rolled, use plastic wrap to tightly secure the rolls before refrigerating, helping them hold their shape.
With practice, you will get the pinwheels just right every time. The effort results in delicious bites all your friends will love!
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
- 1-2 fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large flour tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll mix and roll up the pinwheels in a breeze, then just let them set before slicing and serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use a spatula or mixer to combine everything until it’s nice and smooth. Celebrating that cheesy, smoky scent is half the fun!
2. Spread the Mixture:
Grab a large flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Scoop a good amount of the cheesy mixture and spread it evenly over the entire tortilla, leaving a little space at the edges. Make sure to cover every inch, as this helps broaden that creamy goodness with each bite!
3. Add the Jalapenos:
Carefully place thin slices of fresh jalapeno on top of the cheese mixture. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference—more slices mean more heat!
4. Roll It Up:
Starting from one end, gently but tightly roll the tortilla up into a log shape. Take your time to avoid any tearing, and make sure it’s snug but not too tight.
5. Repeat:
Continue the same process with the remaining tortillas and filling. Check that each roll is well-packed with the yummy mixture!
6. Chill and Set:
Wrap each rolled tortilla log tightly in plastic wrap. This helps maintain shape and sets the filling nicely. Place them in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
7. Slice and Serve:
Once chilled, remove the wraps and use a sharp knife to slice each log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange them prettily on a serving plate and garnish with extra chopped green onions if desired. Their vibrant colors will definitely catch everyone’s eye!
8. Enjoy:
These Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels are perfect for parties or game days! You can serve them chilled or at room temperature, and trust me, they’ll be a hit! Dive in and savor that cheesy, spicy goodness!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese will work just fine and still give you that creamy texture. Just note that it might be a bit softer, so be careful when spreading it over the tortillas.
How Do I Make These Pinwheels Vegetarian?
To make these pinwheels vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can add extra cheese or use sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re delicious cold, so you can enjoy them straight from the fridge!
Can I Freeze the Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze the pinwheels! Before slicing, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before slicing and serving!
