Crispy Pizza Pinwheels

Introduction

Crispy Pizza Pinwheels are a fun, bite-sized twist on traditional pizza, with a crispy exterior and cheesy, savory filling. These pinwheels are made with a pizza dough base, layered with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, then rolled up and baked to golden perfection. The result is a crispy, cheesy treat that’s perfect for appetizers, parties, or even a casual meal.

I first made these pinwheels when I wanted to bring a pizza-inspired snack to a gathering, and they were an instant hit. The combination of the crunchy outside and gooey cheese inside is pure comfort. You can customize them with any toppings you love, from pepperoni to veggies, or even a sprinkle of Italian herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

These pinwheels are as satisfying as a slice of pizza but in a cute, portable form. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a fun snack, or a casual dinner, they’re sure to be enjoyed by all!

Perfect for:

• Appetizers
• Party snacks
• Game day
• Lunch or dinner
• Pizza lovers

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Pizza Pinwheels

Here’s why Crispy Pizza Pinwheels will become your new go-to snack:

• Crispy Exterior: The pinwheels are baked to a golden, crispy perfection on the outside while remaining gooey and cheesy inside.
• Versatile Filling: Customize the filling with your favorite pizza toppings—whether it’s pepperoni, sausage, vegetables, or a mix of all!
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, these pinwheels are an easy and fun way to enjoy pizza without the hassle.
• Portable and Shareable: Perfect for parties or as a snack to share with friends and family, these pinwheels are easy to grab and go.
• Satisfying: The combination of warm, melty cheese, savory sauce, and crispy crust makes these pinwheels irresistible.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 16 pinwheels
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120-140 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 14g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crispy Pizza Pinwheels:

• 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (or pizza sauce)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (or other toppings like cooked sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough for a quick and easy recipe or opt for homemade dough for a fresher taste.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and provides that perfect stringy cheese effect inside the pinwheels.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella and elevates the overall taste.
• Pizza Sauce: A tangy pizza sauce provides a flavorful base for the pinwheels, keeping the filling moist.
• Pepperoni and Other Toppings: Customize your pinwheels with your favorite pizza toppings to make them unique and tailored to your taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crispy Pizza Pinwheels:

Prepare the Pinwheel Filling:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×8 inches).
3. Spread the Sauce: Evenly spread the marinara sauce over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add the Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the sauce. Then, add your preferred toppings, such as pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, or any combination.
5. Season the Filling: Sprinkle the dried oregano, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) evenly over the toppings.

Roll and Bake the Pinwheels:

6. Roll the Dough: Carefully roll the dough from one long edge to the other, creating a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal the dough.
7. Slice the Pinwheels: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the rolled dough into 1-inch wide pinwheels. You should have about 16 pinwheels.
8. Place on the Baking Sheet: Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one for even baking.
9. Brush with Olive Oil: Brush the tops of the pinwheels with olive oil to help them crisp up and get a golden color as they bake.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
11. Cool: Allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Crispy Pizza Pinwheels

Crispy Pizza Pinwheels are perfect for a variety of occasions and can be served in different ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these pinwheels as an appetizer at your next gathering or party. They’re easy to pass around and share with guests.
• With Dipping Sauces: Offer a side of extra marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping to add even more flavor.
• For Lunch or Dinner: These pinwheels can make a fun and filling meal when paired with a side salad or some fresh veggies.
• For Game Day: These pinwheels are a perfect game day snack. Serve them alongside chips and dip for a complete spread.
• For Kids’ Snacks: The bite-sized nature of these pinwheels makes them ideal for kids to enjoy as an after-school snack or lunch.

Additional Tips for Crispy Pizza Pinwheels

Here are some tips to make your Crispy Pizza Pinwheels perfect every time:

• Roll Tight: Roll the dough as tightly as possible to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
• Avoid Overloading the Filling: Adding too many toppings can make the pinwheels soggy or difficult to roll. Stick to a moderate amount of cheese and toppings.
• Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife or pizza cutter will help you get clean, even slices of pinwheels without squishing them.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft or sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to work with.
• Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different pizza toppings such as olives, green peppers, onions, or even pineapple for a sweet and savory twist.

Recipe Variations for Crispy Pizza Pinwheels

Here are 10 variations you can try for Crispy Pizza Pinwheels:

• Hawaiian Pizza Pinwheels: Add diced ham and pineapple along with the cheese for a tropical twist.
• Veggie Pizza Pinwheels: Include bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach for a vegetarian option.
• BBQ Chicken Pinwheels: Use cooked, shredded chicken and BBQ sauce in place of marinara sauce for a smoky flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels: Swap the pizza sauce for buffalo sauce and add shredded cooked chicken for a spicy version.
• Meat Lovers’ Pizza Pinwheels: Use a mix of pepperoni, sausage, and bacon for a hearty, carnivorous version.
• Cheesy Garlic Pinwheels: Skip the sauce and toppings, and just use a garlic butter sauce and extra mozzarella for a simple cheesy pinwheel.
• Pesto Pizza Pinwheels: Replace the marinara sauce with pesto for a herbaceous twist on the classic pizza.
• Cheeseburger Pizza Pinwheels: Use cooked ground beef, cheddar cheese, and pickles for a cheeseburger-inspired pinwheel.
• Margherita Pizza Pinwheels: Use fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for a classic Margherita version.
• Spinach and Ricotta Pinwheels: For a savory vegetarian pinwheel, combine spinach and ricotta cheese as the filling.

Freezing and Storage for Crispy Pizza Pinwheels

• Freezing: These pinwheels freeze beautifully. Place the sliced pinwheels on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.

Special Equipment for Crispy Pizza Pinwheels

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Crispy Pizza Pinwheels easier:

• Rolling Pin: Helps to evenly roll out the pizza dough.
• Pizza Cutter: A pizza cutter is great for slicing the pinwheels quickly and cleanly.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone baking mat ensures easy removal and even cooking.
• Sharp Knife: For cleanly slicing the pinwheels without pressing down too hard.
• Brush: A pastry brush helps you evenly apply olive oil to the pinwheels for a golden, crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions for Crispy Pizza Pinwheels

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
   Yes, store-bought pizza dough works great for this recipe. Just roll it out and proceed with the filling and baking steps.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels, slice them, and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready.
3. Can I freeze the baked pinwheels?
   Yes, you can freeze the baked pinwheels. Let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
4. Can I use a different cheese?
   Absolutely! You can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda.
5. Can I add more toppings?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with different pizza toppings, but be mindful not to overload the filling to ensure the pinwheels stay crispy.

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Conclusion

Crispy Pizza Pinwheels are the ultimate snack for any pizza lover! With a golden, crispy crust on the outside and a melty, cheesy filling on the inside, these bite-sized treats are bursting with flavor. You can get creative with toppings, from classic pepperoni to veggies or even unique ingredients like pineapple and ham.

Perfect for parties, quick lunches, or a fun snack, these pinwheels are an easy way to bring the joy of pizza into a bite-sized, portable form. They’re customizable to suit everyone’s tastes, making them a hit at any gathering.

Can’t wait to see how your Crispy Pizza Pinwheels turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I’d love to see your pizza creations. Happy cooking!