Description
Deliciously spicy and creamy, these Baked Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels combine flaky puff pastry with a rich filling of cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and jalapeños. Perfect as a party appetizer or game day snack, they’re easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños (or more to taste)
- 1 green onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
For Brushing
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cooked bacon, chopped pickled jalapeños, sliced green onion, and garlic powder. Mix until thoroughly combined into a creamy, spicy filling.
- Roll Puff Pastry: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a 10×10 inch square to create an even base for your filling.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal the pinwheels when rolled.
- Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log starting from one edge. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pinwheels.
- Arrange and Brush: Place the pinwheels flat on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg wash to achieve a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh jalapeños for pickled jalapeños if you prefer a fresher, spicier bite.
- These pinwheels can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake; simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Omit bacon or use meatless bacon to make this recipe suitable for vegetarians.
- These pinwheels are an excellent choice for parties, game days, or any occasion that calls for a flavorful and spicy finger food.
