Pinwheel Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pinwheel sandwiches are versatile, crowd-pleasing, and make an eye-catching addition to any table. You can make them ahead of time, choose fillings to suit different tastes, and keep them light or hearty depending on your preferences. They’re also a great way to sneak in veggies while still offering a fun, grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients

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

• Large flour tortillas or wraps

• Cream cheese or flavored spread (such as hummus, ranch, or pesto)

• Deli meats (turkey,  or chicken)

• Sliced cheese

• Fresh vegetables (spinach, lettuce, cucumbers, bell peppers, carrots, etc.)

• Optional extras: olives, pickles, or fresh herbs

Directions

1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.

2. Spread a thin, even layer of cream cheese or chosen spread over the tortilla.

3. Add a layer of deli meat and sliced cheese.

4. Arrange vegetables evenly over the top, keeping them flat to make rolling easier.

5. Starting at one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape.

6. Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help it hold its shape.

7. Slice into 1-inch pieces and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 pinwheels (from 4 tortillas), serving 6–8 people. Preparation takes 15 minutes, plus 30 minutes of chilling time.

Variations

• Mediterranean: Use hummus, feta, olives, cucumbers, and roasted red peppers.

• Italian: Spread pesto with salami, provolone, and spinach.

• Vegetarian: Cream cheese, shredded carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, and spinach.

• Breakfast: Use scrambled eggs,  and shredded cheese with a light spread.

• Sweet version: Spread cream cheese and add sliced strawberries or bananas with a drizzle of honey.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pinwheel sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They should not be reheated, as the fillings may wilt or become soggy. For best results, prepare fresh or refrigerate briefly before serving.

FAQs

Can I make pinwheel sandwiches the night before?

Yes, they can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped.

What tortillas work best?

Large flour tortillas or wraps hold up best, but spinach or tomato tortillas add color.

Can I freeze pinwheel sandwiches?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the wraps and vegetables changes.

How do I keep pinwheels from falling apart?

Wrap them tightly, refrigerate before slicing, and use a spread that helps hold the layers together.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tortillas or wraps.

What spreads can I use instead of cream cheese?

Hummus, guacamole, ranch, pesto, or flavored yogurt spreads all work well.

How do I cut them neatly?

Use a sharp serrated knife and slice gently without squishing the roll.

Are pinwheels suitable for kids?

Yes, they’re a fun, easy-to-eat option that can be filled with kid-friendly ingredients.

Can I serve them warm?

They’re usually served cold, but some versions with melted cheese or cooked meats can be warmed.

What can I serve pinwheel sandwiches with?

They pair well with chips, fresh fruit, veggie sticks, or as part of a larger appetizer platter.

Conclusion

Pinwheel sandwiches are a versatile, easy-to-make option that works for snacks, parties, and lunches alike. With endless filling combinations, they’re customizable to any taste and always a hit. Simple yet delicious, these fun spirals will quickly become a go-to recipe in your collection.

---

Print