Pizza Pinwheels

Introduction

Pizza Pinwheels are a fun and delicious twist on classic pizza. These bite-sized treats are filled with savory pizza sauce, melted cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, all wrapped up in a soft, fluffy dough.

I first made these for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit. The crispy edges and cheesy, flavorful filling make each bite a little piece of pizza perfection. What I love about these pinwheels is how versatile they are—you can use any pizza toppings you like, from pepperoni and mushrooms to olives and bell peppers. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a drizzle of marinara or ranch dressing for dipping takes them to the next level.

Perfect for parties, game days, or as an easy weeknight snack, Pizza Pinwheels are sure to please both kids and adults alike. They’re quick to make and even quicker to disappear, so you might want to make a double batch!

Perfect for:

• Appetizers
• Game day snacks
• Party platters
• Lunchboxes
• Pizza lovers

Why You’ll Love This Pizza Pinwheels

Here’s why Pizza Pinwheels will become your new favorite:

• Fun and Customizable: These pinwheels are super easy to make and can be filled with your favorite pizza toppings, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: The simple, familiar flavors of pizza in a fun, portable form make these pinwheels perfect for kids’ parties or as a quick snack.
• Perfectly Crispy: The edges get wonderfully crispy in the oven while the inside remains soft and cheesy.
• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these pinwheels in no time. No fancy equipment or skills required!
• Great for Meal Prep: These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making them a great make-ahead snack or meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 12-15 pinwheels
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120-150 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pizza Pinwheels:

• 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough if preferred)
• ½ cup pizza sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/3 cup sliced pepperoni or other pizza toppings (like ham, mushrooms, or bell peppers)
• Olive oil for brushing (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Pizza Dough: Store-bought pizza dough makes this recipe quick and easy, but you can also use homemade dough if you prefer.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey, melty mozzarella cheese is the star ingredient in these pinwheels, ensuring they’re cheesy and delicious.
• Pizza Sauce: Pizza sauce brings all the classic pizza flavor to these pinwheels, making them perfectly savory.
• Toppings: Customize your pinwheels with your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, sausage, vegetables, or even olives!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this recipe:

Prepare the Pinwheel Filling:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, unroll the pizza dough. Roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 10×12 inches in size.
3. Spread the Sauce: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about ½ inch around the edges.
4. Add the Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce. Sprinkle the dried oregano and garlic powder on top for extra flavor.
5. Add Toppings: If you’re using additional pizza toppings, sprinkle them evenly over the cheese. Popular options include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
6. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, making sure to seal the edges. If needed, pinch the dough seams to prevent it from unrolling during baking.

Slice and Bake the Pinwheels:

7. Slice the Pinwheels: Using a sharp knife or a serrated knife, slice the rolled dough into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Brush with Olive Oil: If desired, lightly brush the tops of the pinwheels with olive oil for a golden, crispy finish.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Cool: Let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes before serving. They will firm up as they cool, making them easier to handle.

How to Serve Pizza Pinwheels

Pizza Pinwheels are a great snack or appetizer that can be served in many ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these pinwheels on a platter as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.
• With Dipping Sauce: Serve with extra pizza sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for dipping.
• In Lunchboxes: These pinwheels are perfect for packing in lunchboxes, providing a tasty and fun meal option.
• With a Salad: Pair these pinwheels with a fresh salad for a more filling meal.
• As a Snack: Enjoy them on their own as a quick snack or after-school treat.

Additional Tips for Pizza Pinwheels

Here are some tips to ensure this recipe are perfect every time:

• Roll Tight: Make sure to roll the dough tightly to avoid the toppings spilling out while baking.
• Don’t Overload with Sauce: Spread the pizza sauce thinly to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
• Use a Serrated Knife: A serrated knife works best for slicing the pinwheels without squishing the dough.
• Brush with Oil: Brushing the top of the pinwheels with olive oil ensures a crispy, golden finish.
• Customize with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings or try different cheeses like cheddar or provolone.

Recipe Variations for Pizza Pinwheels

Here are 10 variations you can try for this recipe:

• Veggie Pizza Pinwheels: Add a mix of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and spinach for a vegetarian twist.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza Pinwheels: Replace the pizza sauce with BBQ sauce and add cooked, shredded chicken for a BBQ chicken flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pinwheels: Use buffalo sauce and shredded chicken for a spicy kick.
• Breakfast Pizza Pinwheels: Add scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese for a breakfast-style pinwheel.
• Four Cheese Pizza Pinwheels: Use a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, and Parmesan for a rich, cheesy filling.
• Hawaiian Pizza Pinwheels: Add ham and pineapple for a tropical variation.
• Meat Lover’s Pizza Pinwheels: Add cooked sausage, bacon, and pepperoni for a hearty meat-lover version.
• Spinach and Ricotta Pizza Pinwheels: Swap the traditional pizza toppings for spinach and ricotta cheese for a vegetarian option.
• Pesto Pizza Pinwheels: Replace the pizza sauce with pesto for a deliciously herby twist.
• Gluten-Free Pizza Pinwheels: Use gluten-free pizza dough for a gluten-free version of these pinwheels.

Freezing and Storage for Pizza Pinwheels

• Freezing: You can freeze the pinwheels before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Pizza Pinwheels

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing this recipe easier:

• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin helps you roll out the pizza dough evenly.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
• Sharp Knife or Serrated Knife: Use a sharp knife to slice the pinwheels without compressing them.
• Pizza Cutter: If you have a pizza cutter, it works perfectly for slicing the pinwheels.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Frequently Asked Questions for Pizza Pinwheels

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
   Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe. Just roll it out and follow the rest of the steps as directed.
2. Can I make the pinwheels ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time, slice them, and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking and bake them later.
3. Can I use different cheeses?
   Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses to suit your taste.
4. What other toppings can I add?
   Feel free to add any of your favorite pizza toppings like olives, anchovies, or cooked chicken to customize your pinwheels.

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Conclusion

Pizza Pinwheels are a fun, customizable, and delicious snack that everyone will love. With their crispy edges, cheesy filling, and endless topping options, these pinwheels are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing lunch, or just craving a savory snack, these pinwheels are sure to satisfy your hunger and impress your guests.

This recipe is as easy to prepare as it is tasty, making it perfect for everything from casual get-togethers to quick weeknight meals. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them all by yourself, these pizza pinwheels are guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone’s face.

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