Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup pepperoni slices; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Festive Food

I absolutely love making Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels for game day celebrations! They are so easy to prepare and always a hit with family and friends. The flaky pastry combined with a savory filling makes for a delicious snack that disappears quickly. I enjoy experimenting with different fillings, but this classic combination of cheese, pepperoni, and herbs is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. These pinwheels not only taste great but also bring an impressive touch to my Super Bowl spread!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:25:34.449Z

When I first made these pinwheels, I was pleasantly surprised by how effortless they were to create. We gathered around the kitchen as each of us rolled out the dough and filled them with our favorite ingredients. Baking them released an enticing aroma that filled our home, making it hard to wait until they were done!

One tip I learned is to ensure the pastry is very cold before rolling it out. This helps achieve that beautiful flaky texture we all love. I also like to brush the top with a bit of egg wash for that golden finish. Trust me, you'll want to keep this recipe in your game day arsenal!

Why You'll Love These Pinwheels
Quick and easy to make with store-bought puff pastry
Customizable with a variety of fillings
Golden brown and flaky with each bite

Getting the Perfect Roll

When rolling out the puff pastry, it’s crucial to maintain an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness; too thin, and they may crack, too thick, and they won’t puff properly. I often use a rolling pin with guide rings to help achieve this consistency. If the pastry becomes too soft while rolling, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes to firm it up before continuing.

After sprinkling the fillings, be mindful not to overload the pastry. A balance is key—too much filling can lead to bursting during baking. I usually stick to about 1 to 1.5 cups of filling total to ensure they hold together nicely. By keeping some space at the edges, you’ll have a better seal when you roll the pinwheels, which helps them maintain their shape.

Customizing Your Flavor

These pinwheels are incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the pepperoni for other cured meats like prosciutto or salami for a different flavor profile. If you’d like a vegetarian twist, consider using a mix of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers, paired with some creamy goat cheese or feta. These variations not only cater to dietary preferences but can also enhance your game day spread.

For an extra layer of flavor, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese can create a delightful contrast with the other ingredients. I recommend combining cheeses; for example, pairing sharp cheddar with mozzarella gives you a great blend of creaminess and flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content in your choice of cheese, as overly moist cheese can make the pastry soggy.

Ingredients:

For the Pinwheels

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pepperoni slices
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

Directions:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare Puff Pastry

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until you achieve an even thickness.

Add Filling

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning evenly over the pastry.

Roll and Slice

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log. Slice into 1-inch pieces and place them on the baking sheet.

Egg Wash

Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

Serve

Let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as cooked sausage, veggies, or different cheeses. The key is to keep the ingredients balanced so the pastry doesn't become soggy.

Storing and Reheating

If you want to prepare these pinwheels ahead of time, you can assemble them and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. You could also freeze the unbaked pinwheels; simply place them on a baking tray to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw them—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

To reheat leftover pinwheels, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will restore the crispness that can be lost in the microwave, which tends to make the pastry chewy. If you must use the microwave, do so for only 15-20 seconds at a time, monitoring closely to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making them ideal for parties. I like to serve them with a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara for a classic Italian twist or a zesty ranch for a creamier option. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate their flavor, adding a touch of sweetness.

For an impressive presentation, consider arranging the pinwheels on a large platter with garnishes like fresh basil or parsley sprigs. You might also sprinkle some grated cheese over the top after they're baked for a gourmet touch. Pairing them with a crisp salad or a selection of charcuterie can create a well-rounded snack table that will wow your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time, refrigerate them, and bake them just before your guests arrive.

→ What can I use instead of pepperoni?

You can use cooked sausage, diced ham, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I freeze the pinwheels before baking?

Absolutely! You can freeze the rolled pinwheels on a baking sheet and, once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.