Pepperoni Pinwheels

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pepperoni Pinwheels are simple, yet incredibly flavorful, making them the perfect go-to snack or appetizer for any occasion. The combination of pepperoni and cheese, wrapped in a buttery dough, creates a satisfying bite that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick lunch, or just craving something savory, these pinwheels are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re easy to prepare and customizable, making them versatile for any taste.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry (or refrigerated pizza dough)

• ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 ½ cups pepperoni slices

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

• Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

2. Prepare the Dough:

   • Roll out the puff pastry (or pizza dough) on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases, creating a rectangular shape.

3. Assemble the Pinwheels:

   • Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce or marinara sauce evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving about a ½-inch border on the edges.

   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, ensuring it covers the dough evenly.

   • Lay the pepperoni slices over the cheese, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

4. Roll and Slice:

   • Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log or cylinder.

   • Once rolled, slice the dough into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife.

5. Bake the Pinwheels:

   • Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

   • Brush the tops of the pinwheels lightly with olive oil, and sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

   • Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with extra pizza sauce or marinara for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 12-14 pinwheels, depending on how thick you slice them.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

• Total Time: 25-28 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the pepperoni with vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian version.

• Cheese Variations: Swap out the mozzarella for other cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

• Add Spices: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

• Storage: Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place pinwheels on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze the pinwheels?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

3. Can I use homemade dough instead of puff pastry?

Absolutely! You can use pizza dough or homemade dough if you prefer. Puff pastry just makes them extra flaky and light, but the pizza dough works great too.

4. Can I use other meats besides pepperoni?

Yes, you can use cooked chicken, turkey, or other deli meats as a substitute for pepperoni.

5. How do I prevent the pinwheels from unrolling while baking?

Make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the edges slightly to seal them before baking. Additionally, baking them seam-side down can help prevent them from unrolling.

6. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free puff pastry or gluten-free pizza dough to make this recipe gluten-free.

7. Can I add more sauce to the pinwheels?

Yes, you can add extra sauce to the filling if you like, but be sure not to overdo it so the pinwheels don’t become soggy. You can also serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.

8. What other toppings can I add to the pinwheels?

Feel free to add olives, bell peppers, or onions for additional flavor. You could also sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before baking.

9. Can I serve these pinwheels cold?

While these pinwheels are best served warm, you can enjoy them cold as well. They make a great snack or lunch item even when chilled.

10. What can I serve with these pinwheels?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or even a spicy mustard.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Pinwheels are a simple, fun, and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing lunch, or looking for a quick snack, these pinwheels are sure to satisfy. With a crispy outer layer and a savory, cheesy center, they’re a great way to enjoy the classic combination of pepperoni and cheese in a fun, bite-sized format. These pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser everyone will love!

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