Super Bowl Appetizer Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice); 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage or your choice of protein; 1/4 cup diced bell peppers; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

I love serving Super Bowl Appetizer Puff Pastry Pinwheels at gatherings because they are always a hit! The flaky, buttery pastry perfectly complements the savory fillings, making them irresistible. I find that they are not only easy to prepare, but their versatility allows me to experiment with different ingredients like cheeses, meats, and vegetables. Whether I go for classic combinations or try something new, these pinwheels are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that disappear as soon as they hit the table.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:19:10.498Z

When I first tried making these Super Bowl Appetizer Puff Pastry Pinwheels, I couldn't believe how easy they were! I had some leftover puff pastry in the freezer, and after experimenting with various fillings, I found the perfect balance between savory and aromatic. I discovered that letting the pastry sit out for a few minutes before rolling it out made it softer and easier to work with.

One tip I want to share is to ensure you don’t overcrowd the filling. This allows the pinwheels to hold their shape and ensures even cooking. I always make an extra batch because these delightful bites never last long, especially during game day!

        Why You'll Love These Pinwheels
        Flaky and buttery pastry that melts in your mouth
Easily customizable with your favorite fillings
Perfect for sharing and ideal for parties

      

Perfecting Your Pinwheels

To achieve the ideal texture in your Super Bowl Appetizer Puff Pastry Pinwheels, make sure to roll the puff pastry evenly. Unevenly rolled dough can lead to inconsistent baking results, where some pinwheels might turn out overcooked while others remain underdone. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch, which allows for optimal puffing and flakiness when baked.

When layering your fillings, consider the moisture content of each ingredient. Juicy vegetables, like bell peppers, can introduce excess moisture, which may make the pastry soggy. To counter this, dice the bell peppers small and pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the filling mix. This ensures that your pinwheels retain their crispy, flaky texture.

Creative Filling Variations

While this recipe calls for cheddar cheese and sausage, feel free to explore other flavor combinations. For a vegetarian option, swap in sautéed mushrooms and spinach with feta cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some spice with jalapeños or make it sweet with a layer of cranberry sauce alongside cream cheese. The possibilities are endless!

Incorporating herbs and spices can elevate your pinwheels significantly. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a burst of freshness to your fillings. Just remember to balance strong flavors; if you're using bold ingredients like blue cheese, it may be best to pair it with milder components to create a well-rounded taste.

Storage and Serving Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps to keep the pastry crispy instead of soggy, which can happen in a microwave.

For optimal presentation at your Super Bowl party, consider serving the pinwheels with a variety of dipping sauces. A spicy mustard, ranch dressing, or even homemade marinara can complement the flavors wonderfully. Arranging the pinwheels on a platter with fresh herbs can make for an appealing display while enticing your guests to dig in!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage or your choice of protein
1/4 cup diced bell peppers
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are prepared and ready to use!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your pinwheels:

Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to smooth it out slightly.

Add the Fillings

Spread the shredded cheese evenly over the pastry. Then layer the cooked sausage and diced bell peppers. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top.

Roll and Slice

Carefully roll the pastry from one end to the other tightly to form a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch pinwheels.

Apply Egg Wash

Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of each pinwheel with the beaten egg to achieve a golden color while baking.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.

Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different fillings like spinach and feta or pepperoni and mozzarella for a new twist!

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese is crucial in achieving a creamy, gooey texture inside the pinwheels. Cheddar offers a sharp flavor, while mozzarella brings a stringy quality that many love. If you're looking for a melty option, consider using Gruyère or fontina, which provide a delightful richness.

If you're substituting the sausage, ensure whatever protein you choose is cooked beforehand. Cooked shredded chicken or jalapeño-infused bacon can add exciting flavors and textures, equating to a tasty experience that satisfies everyone's cravings during the game!

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be adjusted for larger gatherings. For every additional sheet of puff pastry used, simply double the ingredients specified. You can also choose to create pinwheels in various sizes, from bite-sized to larger portions, so everyone can grab a piece as they mingle.

If you're preparing for a bigger crowd, consider making the pinwheels ahead of time and freezing them before baking. Arrange the sliced pinwheels on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer them to a zip-lock bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your pinwheels are coming out less than perfectly puffy, it might be due to using warm ingredients. Always allow cooked fillings to cool at room temperature before assembling. Hot fillings can melt the butter in the pastry before baking, which diminishes the rise and flakiness you’re aiming for.

Another common issue is the pastry becoming too soft, making it difficult to slice cleanly. Ensure that the puff pastry remains chilled while working; a quick 10-minute chill in the refrigerator before slicing can help maintain structure. If it becomes overly soft, don’t hesitate to return it to the fridge for a few minutes to firm up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works perfectly! Just make sure to thaw it before use.

→ How do I store leftover pinwheels?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Try using cream cheese with herbs, deli meats, or even roasted vegetables.