Description
These Easy Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels are a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer made with a flavorful mixture of sautéed spinach, garlic, and a blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties, snacks, or any occasion that calls for a savory bite.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Spinach Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Sauté Spinach: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add chopped spinach, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and any excess moisture evaporates, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Prepare Filling: Transfer the cooked spinach mixture to a bowl and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until well combined and creamy.
- Roll Out Pastry: On a clean surface, roll the thawed puff pastry into a 10 by 12-inch rectangle to create an even surface for spreading the filling.
- Fill & Roll: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the rolled-out puff pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Carefully roll the pastry sheet into a tight log starting from one long side.
- Slice & Bake: Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled log into 1-inch thick rounds. Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash for a glossy, golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy these cheesy, savory bites as an appetizer or snack.
Notes
- You can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time, freeze them unbaked, and bake them directly from the freezer—just add 3 to 5 minutes extra to the baking time.
- Feta cheese can be substituted for Parmesan if you prefer a tangier flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American