Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Spinach Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Spinach Pinwheels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast Quick Meals Recipes

I have always been a fan of appetizers that are both delicious and easy to prepare, and these baked spinach pinwheels hit the mark perfectly! During our Super Bowl parties, I've noticed that these little bites disappear faster than I can make them. With a rich blend of creamy cheese and fresh spinach rolled into flaky pastry, they are an irresistible addition to any game day spread. Plus, they can be baked ahead of time, making them a go-to choice for entertaining without the last-minute rush.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:41:34.983Z

Making these baked spinach pinwheels has become a cherished tradition at our Super Bowl gatherings. I love how the combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and fresh spinach creates a creamy filling that pairs so well with the crisp pastry. One important detail I learned is to let the filling cool slightly before spreading it on the dough, ensuring the pastry maintains its flakiness as it bakes.

Another tip is to cut the pinwheels with a sharp knife to achieve clean edges, which not only looks better but also helps them bake evenly. Each bite delivers a creamy and cheesy flavor that balances beautifully with the earthiness of the spinach. Trust me, they'll be a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously creamy spinach filling wrapped in flaky pastry
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings
A crowd-pleaser that shares the spotlight with other Super Bowl snacks

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When making these baked spinach pinwheels, using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Fresh spinach not only enhances the color of the pinwheels but also retains a slight crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute frozen spinach, but make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to prevent a soggy filling.

The cheeses used in this recipe play a crucial role in creating the perfect gooey texture. Cream cheese gives a rich, creamy base, while mozzarella provides that delightful stretch when melted. Parmesan adds depth with its sharpness. If you don't have these cheeses on hand, swap the mozzarella for provolone or even a dairy-free cheese alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version.

Tips for Perfect Pinwheels

Rolling the puff pastry tightly is essential for achieving those beautiful spiral layers in your pinwheels. If you're finding the pastry is too soft while rolling, you might consider chilling it for a few minutes to make it easier to handle. Keep an eye on the thickness as you roll; it should be about 1/4-inch thick for optimal baking and crispiness.

Baking time can vary slightly based on your oven, so keep an eye on the pinwheels as they approach the 20-minute mark. Look for a golden brown color on the edges and a puffy appearance. Overbaking might lead to dryness, so trust your visual cues and remove them from the oven as soon as they look perfectly baked.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spinach Pinwheels

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

Instructions

How to Make Spinach Pinwheels

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

Roll Out the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry until it's smooth and slightly larger. Cut it into a rectangle if necessary.

Spread the Filling

Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about an inch border around the edges.

Roll and Cut

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log. Once rolled, slice the log into 1-inch pieces.

Bake

Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm and watch them disappear!

Enjoy Your Appetizer!

Pro Tips

You can add other ingredients, such as crumbled feta or diced bell peppers, to customize the flavor of your pinwheels. Make sure to brush them with an egg wash before baking for a shiny finish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of these spinach pinwheels is that they can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the entire rolled log of pinwheels, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. This means less stress on game day, allowing you to focus on enjoying the event with your guests.

If you end up with leftovers, store the cooled pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Creative Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels are versatile and can be elevated with different dips or garnishes. A spicy marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the pinwheels. You might also try serving them alongside a tangy tzatziki sauce for a refreshing contrast.

For an extra burst of flavor, consider sprinkling the pinwheels with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning before baking. This small touch can add a delightful crunch and depth to each bite, making your appetizer spread even more enticing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels in advance?

Yes, you can prepare them a day ahead and refrigerate before baking. Just bake them right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for spinach?

You can use kale or even a mix of different greens depending on your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can these be frozen?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked pinwheels and bake them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.