Pizza Pinwheels

Introduction

Pizza Pinwheels are a fun and delicious twist on classic pizza, perfect for a quick snack, lunch, or appetizer. These bite-sized rolls are made with pizza dough, layered with savory ingredients like pepperoni, cheese, and marinara sauce, then rolled up and baked until golden and crispy. They’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the fillings to suit your tastes.

I first made these when I was looking for a way to enjoy pizza in a new, easy-to-eat form, and they quickly became a family favorite. The aroma of melting cheese and crispy dough filled the kitchen, and the pinwheels disappeared in no time. You can switch up the ingredients to match your cravings—add veggies, swap the pepperoni for sausage, or try a different sauce.

What’s great about Pizza Pinwheels is how simple and quick they are to make. With just a few ingredients and a few minutes in the oven, you’ve got a satisfying snack or meal. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing a lunch, or just craving something cheesy and savory, these pinwheels are sure to satisfy!

Perfect for:

• Party appetizers
• Game day snacks
• Lunchboxes
• Kids’ meals
• Pizza lovers

Why You’ll Love This Pizza Pinwheels

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

• Easy and Fun to Make: These pinwheels are simple to assemble and bake, making them perfect for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal or snack.
• Customizable Fillings: While this recipe features classic pizza ingredients, you can easily swap in your favorite toppings like vegetables, different cheeses, or even chicken.
• Crispy and Gooey: The combination of crispy dough and gooey cheese creates the perfect texture, while the pepperoni adds a savory punch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and reheated, making them a great option for meal prepping.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love these fun, pizza-inspired rolls that are easy to eat with their hands.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 12 pinwheels
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pizza Pinwheels:

• 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni (or your favorite topping)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Olive oil for brushing (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Pizza Dough: Store-bought pizza dough is convenient and easy to use, but you can also make your own for an even fresher taste.
• Marinara Sauce: The sauce is essential for adding flavor and moisture to the pinwheels.
• Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese gives the pinwheels their gooey texture and mild flavor, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty kick.
• Pepperoni: Classic pizza topping that adds savory flavor, but you can swap in vegetables or other proteins if you prefer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Pizza Pinwheels:

Prepare the Pinwheels:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 10×12 inches.
3. Spread the Sauce: Evenly spread the marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Layer the Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, pepperoni, oregano, and garlic powder evenly over the sauce.
5. Roll the Dough: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a log shape. Make sure it’s tightly rolled, but not so tight that the filling spills out.
6. Slice the Pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into 1-inch slices.

Bake the Pinwheels:

7. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
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 dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Cool: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Pizza Pinwheels

Pizza Pinwheels are a versatile treat that can be served in various ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these pinwheels as a finger food at parties, game day, or family gatherings.
• With Dipping Sauce: Pair with extra marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for dipping.
• For Lunch: Pack these pinwheels in lunchboxes for a kid-friendly meal or an easy lunch on the go.
• As a Snack: They make the perfect quick snack when you’re craving something savory and cheesy.

Additional Tips for Pizza Pinwheels

Here are some tips to ensure your Pizza Pinwheels turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overload the dough with too much filling, as this can make it harder to roll and cause the pinwheels to unravel.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pizza dough and high-quality cheese will yield the best results.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the pinwheels up to the point of baking and refrigerate them for 2-3 hours before cooking, or freeze them for up to 2 months. Simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to swap out the pepperoni for other meats, vegetables, or cheeses. You can even add some cooked sausage, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the pinwheels with a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Recipe Variations for Pizza Pinwheels

Here are 5 variations you can try for Pizza Pinwheels:

• Vegetarian Pizza Pinwheels: Skip the pepperoni and add vegetables like bell peppers, olives, onions, or mushrooms.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza Pinwheels: Use cooked, shredded chicken and barbecue sauce in place of marinara for a different flavor profile.
• Buffalo Chicken Pizza Pinwheels: Add buffalo sauce and cooked chicken for a spicy, tangy twist.
• Hawaiian Pizza Pinwheels: Add diced ham and pineapple for a tropical flair.
• Cheese Lover’s Pizza Pinwheels: Load these up with extra cheese, including cheddar, provolone, or goat cheese for a cheesy indulgence.

Freezing and Storage for Pizza Pinwheels

• Freezing: Pizza Pinwheels freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week and reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Special Equipment for Pizza Pinwheels

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

• Rolling Pin – For rolling out the dough evenly.
• Baking Sheet – To place the pinwheels on while baking.
• Parchment Paper – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Pastry Brush – To apply butter, olive oil, or sauce on the dough.
• Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter – For cutting the rolled dough into pinwheel slices.
• Mixing Bowl – For preparing the filling ingredients (cheese, sauce, etc.).
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To measure the ingredients accurately.
• Silicone Mat – An alternative to parchment paper for non-stick baking.
• Cooling Rack – For letting the pinwheels cool after baking.
• Tongs or Spatula – For transferring the pinwheels onto the serving plate or cooling rack.

Frequently Asked Questions for Pizza Pinwheels

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
   Yes, store-bought pizza dough is a convenient option, but homemade dough can give you an extra fresh taste.
2. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. You can also freeze them for later.
3. Can I use other toppings?
   Absolutely! Feel free to customize the pinwheels with your favorite pizza toppings like vegetables, different meats, or cheeses.
4. How do I store leftover pinwheels?
   Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
5. Can I freeze the dough for later use?
   Yes, you can freeze the dough before assembling the pinwheels. Just thaw and roll it out when you’re ready to use it.

Print

Conclusion

Pizza Pinwheels are a delicious and versatile snack that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a party, packing them for lunch, or just enjoying them as an easy snack, these pinwheels are sure to satisfy your cravings for pizza in a fun and portable way. With their gooey cheese, savory toppings, and crispy dough, they’re a perfect choice for any occasion.

This recipe is as easy to make as it is tasty, ideal for everything from casual gatherings to weeknight meals. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo, these pizza pinwheels are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.

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!