Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice); 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage or chopped veggies; 1/4 cup pesto or any preferred sauce; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels for game day celebrations! There’s something incredibly satisfying about the flaky layers of pastry combined with flavorful fillings that can be tailored to anyone’s taste. These pinwheels are versatile, allowing me to experiment with different cheeses, meats, and veggies. Each bite is a delightful surprise and the best part? They come together quickly, making them an easy yet impressive appetizer to serve during those thrilling game moments. Perfect for sharing and dipping, these pinwheels are bound to be a hit!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:40:05.981Z

When I first made these Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels, they became an instant favorite among friends and family. I remember experimenting with a blend of cheeses and spices, and that little burst of creativity turned out to be a hit! The golden, flaky pastry contrasts beautifully with the savory fillings, and every bite feels like a celebration.

I’ve found that using fresh herbs adds an unexpected depth of flavor, and mixing in some sautéed veggies makes each pinwheel more nutritious. It’s such a joy to watch them vanish from the platter, and they’re always the first thing to go!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flaky, buttery pastry that creates a satisfying crunch
Customizable with your favorite fillings, from savory to sweet
Perfectly portable and ideal for sharing at parties

      

Perfecting the Puff Pastry

Working with puff pastry can be exhilarating, but also a bit tricky if you’re unfamiliar. Make sure the puff pastry is completely thawed before you begin; this ensures it's pliable. If it's too warm, it may lose its shape while rolling, so keep it cool as you work. Rolling it out to about 1/8 inch thick will create the optimal balance between flakiness and ease of handling, leading to beautifully risen pinwheels once baked.

When baking, the first few minutes are critical. The heat causes the layers of pastry to puff up, resulting in that delightful texture. Keep an eye on them around the 15-minute mark to ensure they don’t over-bake; golden-brown edges indicate they’re just right. If you see any signs of burning, consider reducing the oven temperature slightly during the final minutes.

Choosing Your Fillings Wisely

The versatility of these pinwheels makes them so appealing! If you prefer vegetarian options, consider using roasted bell peppers or spinach. For additional creaminess, adding a layer of cream cheese can complement the cheese, creating a rich flavor profile. When selecting meats, ensure they are pre-cooked and evenly distributed to prevent sogginess; quinoa or beans can be great protein alternatives for a vegetarian twist.

Flavor intensity is another important factor. High-quality ingredients can elevate your pinwheels. Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded is often worth it for the improved melting quality and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with spicy or flavored sausages for a kick—just remember to balance with milder components to keep it palatable for everyone.

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage or chopped veggies
1/4 cup pesto or any preferred sauce
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick.

Add Fillings

Spread the pesto evenly over the pastry. Then, sprinkle the cheese, sausage, and additional ingredients on top, ensuring an even coverage.

Roll and Slice

Starting from one end, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Slice the log into 1-inch pieces and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dip!

Your puff pastry pinwheels are now ready for your Super Bowl party!

Pro Tips

Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Try different combinations of meats, cheeses, or veggies to suit your tastes. Freezing the pinwheels before baking allows you to make them ahead and bake fresh when needed.

Storage and Reheating

These pinwheels can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent option for busy game days. After slicing, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep for about a month. When you’re ready to bake them, there's no need to thaw; simply bake at 400°F (200°C) for an extra 5-10 minutes until they puff up and turn golden.

If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness, as microwaving can make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels can be served with a variety of dips, enhancing the flavor experience. A creamy ranch or a zesty marinara sauce works well. Additionally, consider a warm cheese dip if you're hosting a larger gathering—this adds an interactive element as guests can dip and share.

While these pinwheels are perfect as finger food, pairing them with a simple side salad can make for a more substantial meal. A fresh arugula or mixed greens salad, lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon, complements the rich and savory flavors of the pinwheels beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the pinwheels in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble and freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer when you're ready.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can use any combination of cooked meats, vegetables, or sauces. Favorites include ham and cheese or spinach and feta!

→ 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 crispiness.

→ Can I use a different type of pastry?

Yes, you can try using crescent roll dough or phyllo pastry, though the texture will vary.