Get ready to wow your guests with the most addictive party appetizer that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a spicy kick! These Easy Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels are about to become your new secret weapon for gatherings, game days, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort. Imagine biting into a perfectly rolled tortilla filled with melted cheese, tangy cream cheese, and just the right amount of jalapeno heat - all in one irresistible bite that'll have everyone begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 pinwheels
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced jalapenos (fresh or pickled)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and let soften at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to ensure easy mixing.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapenos, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and create a smooth, creamy filling.
- Lay out flour tortillas on a clean, flat surface. Ensure tortillas are at room temperature to prevent cracking when rolling.
- Using a spatula or butter knife, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across each tortilla, leaving a small border of about 1/2 inch around the edges to prevent overflow when rolling.
- Carefully roll each tortilla tightly from one end to the other, creating a compact log-like shape. Press gently to seal the edge.
- Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them firm up and make slicing easier.
- Remove chilled rolls from refrigerator and use a sharp knife to slice each roll into 3-4 pinwheel sections, approximately 1-inch thick.
- Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange pinwheel slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each piece.
- Optional: For a golden finish, lightly spray the tops of the pinwheels with cooking spray.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake pinwheels for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are slightly golden and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Pinwheels can be served warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for smooth, easy mixing. Cold cream cheese will create lumpy filling.
- Jalapeno Heat Control: For less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. For extra spice, keep them in!
- Rolling Technique: Use a gentle but firm touch when rolling to create tight, compact pinwheels that won't fall apart.
- Chilling is Crucial: Don't skip the 30-minute refrigeration - this helps the rolls firm up and makes slicing much cleaner and easier.
- Sharp Knife Trick: Use a very sharp knife and clean it between cuts for the neatest pinwheel slices.
- Make-Ahead Magic: These can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to bake - perfect for party planning!
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately after baking for the best texture, or let cool to room temperature for a delightful appetizer that's equally delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
