There's nothing quite like the smell of melted cheese and pepperoni filling your kitchen while you're prepping for a party or quick snack. These Pizza Pinwheels combine all your favorite pizza flavors wrapped up in soft tortillas, sliced into perfect bite-sized spirals.
My kids spotted me making these last weekend and practically camped out in the kitchen until they were ready. They're incredibly simple to whip up, require just a handful of pantry staples, and disappear faster than I can slice them.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
These Pizza Pinwheels are pure genius for busy families like mine. They take less than 15 minutes to prepare, and you probably have everything you need sitting in your fridge right now. My sister calls them "pizza without the mess," and she's absolutely right. No sauce dripping down your chin, no burnt fingers from hot cheese, just perfectly portioned bites of pizza heaven.
The cream cheese base keeps everything creamy and helps all those flavors stick together beautifully. Whether you're hosting a playdate, packing school lunches, or need something quick for movie night, these pepperoni pizza pinwheels never let me down. They're also fantastic because you can make them ahead and just slice when you're ready to serve.
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What You'll Need
These ingredients are so simple, you might already have them waiting in your kitchen. I love recipes that don't send me running to three different stores, and this one definitely delivers on that promise.
Main Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz pepperoni slices, chopped
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Extras
You can toss in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if your family likes things spicy like mine does.
These pizza pinwheels are super easy - full steps are in the recipe card.
How to Make Pizza Pinwheels
Step 1: Mix the Base
Combine softened cream cheese, half the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. This mixture should spread easily without tearing your tortillas.
Step 2: Spread and Layer
Lay each tortilla flat and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle chopped pepperoni over the cream cheese, then add the remaining mozzarella.
Step 3: Roll Tightly
Starting from one end, roll each tortilla as tightly as possible without squeezing out the filling. The tighter you roll, the prettier your slices will look when cut.
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! Wrap your rolled tortillas in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This actually makes them easier to slice cleanly.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or cover until ready to eat.
Aliana's Top Tip
Here's my secret for perfect tortilla pinwheels every time: let your cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing. Cold cream cheese tears the tortillas and creates lumpy spots that don't spread nicely. I usually pull mine out about 30 minutes before I start cooking. Also, when you're rolling, don't press too hard or you'll push all the good stuff out the sides. My daughter learned this the hard way during our last cooking session together!
Easy Swaps
Not a pepperoni fan? Try diced ham, cooked sausage, or even leftover rotisserie chicken. You can swap the mozzarella for cheddar or pepper jack if that's what you have on hand. For a veggie version, load them up with diced tomatoes, black olives, and green peppers.
Storage & Serving Tips
These pinwheel appetizers stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days when covered tightly. They're actually better after sitting for a few hours because all the flavors blend together. I don't recommend freezing them because the cream cheese gets a bit watery when thawed. If you're serving a crowd, double the recipe and use different colored tortillas for a fun presentation.
Follow Aliana on Pinterest →What to Serve With Pizza Pinwheels
These pair perfectly with marinara sauce for dipping, though my family devours them plain. I often serve them alongside fresh fruit, veggie sticks, or a simple green salad for lunch. They're also fantastic with other finger foods at parties.
FAQs About Pizza Pinwheels
How long do these keep?
Covered in the fridge, they stay good for 2-3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight.
Can kids help make these?
Definitely! My kids love spreading the filling and rolling the tortillas. Just help them with the slicing part.
Can I use different tortillas?
Yes! Spinach, tomato, or whole wheat tortillas work great and add extra color and flavor.
How do I prevent soggy pinwheels?
Make sure your cream cheese isn't too thin and avoid adding wet ingredients like fresh tomatoes directly to the filling.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you're looking for more easy appetizer Dinner, these crowd-pleasers are simple to make, perfect for gatherings, and always disappear quickly: bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers with their perfect spicy-creamy combo, buffalo chicken dip that's warm and comforting, and mini meatballs that work for any occasion. These pinwheel appetizers fit right into my appetizer collection where easy prep meets big flavor.
Made it your way? I'd love to see it! Tag @AlianaRecipes on Pinterest and show off your delicious version.
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Pizza Pinwheels Recipe:
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