Pepperoni Pinwheels Appetizer Recipe

Pepperoni Pinwheels are a quick and delicious appetizer featuring flaky crescent dough, gooey melted cheese, and savory pepperoni. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for game days, parties, or even a fun family-friendly snack. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Made with store-bought crescent dough for convenience.
• Cheesy & Savory: Loaded with melty cheese and zesty pepperoni.
• Perfect for Parties: A great finger food for gatherings and game nights.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients to create different flavor variations.

this Recipe

Ingredients

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

• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or puff pastry)
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (for dipping, optional)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the crescent roll dough onto a lightly floured surface, pressing the seams together to form a single sheet.

2. Add the Fillings

1. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough.
2. Layer the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
3. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes over the top.

3. Roll & Slice

1. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
2. Slice the roll into 1-inch thick pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake & Serve

1. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
3. Serve warm with pizza sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 pinwheels
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
• Supreme Pinwheels: Add black olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• BBQ Chicken Pinwheels: Swap pepperoni for shredded chicken and use BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce.
• Veggie Pinwheels: Use spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a vegetarian option.
• Puff Pastry Version: Substitute crescent dough with puff pastry for a flakier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked pinwheels for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pinwheels, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?

Yes! Puff pastry gives a crispier, flakier texture but requires a slightly longer bake time.

What’s the best cheese for these pinwheels?

Mozzarella is classic, but cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack work great too.

Can I use turkey pepperoni?

Absolutely! Turkey pepperoni is a great lower-fat alternative.

How do I keep the pinwheels from unrolling?

Chill the rolled dough in the fridge for 10 minutes before slicing to help hold its shape.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter all pair perfectly.

Can I make these pinwheels gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free crescent dough or a homemade gluten-free pizza dough.

Can I air fry these?

Yes! Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I keep them crispy?

Bake them on a parchment-lined sheet and avoid overcrowding so they crisp up evenly.

Can I add fresh basil?

Yes! Sprinkle fresh basil over the baked pinwheels for a fresh touch.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Pinwheels are a simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With flaky dough, melty cheese, and savory pepperoni, they’re an easy go-to recipe for parties, snacks, or even a quick lunch. Try different variations and enjoy a warm, cheesy bite of this classic favorite!

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