Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Spinach Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Spinach Pinwheels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Festive Ideas

I love preparing these Baked Spinach Pinwheels for Super Bowl gatherings because they're easy to make and always a hit! The combination of creamy cheese and fresh spinach wrapped in flaky pastry makes for a delightful bite-sized treat. Plus, they can be prepped ahead of time, which is a lifesaver when hosting. With a golden, crispy exterior and a savory filling, these pinwheels are perfect for snacking while cheering for your favorite team!

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:09:34.536Z

When I first made these Baked Spinach Pinwheels, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared at my Super Bowl party. Everyone raved about them and asked for the recipe! The trick is to make sure the spinach is well-drained to keep the filling from becoming soggy. I also love to add a pinch of garlic powder for an extra kick of flavor.

After perfecting my technique, I found that rolling the dough tightly helps create those perfect pinwheel shapes that look so appetizing. These appetizers not only taste great, but they also elevate the snack table with their fun presentation. Give them a try during your next gathering!

Why You'll Love These Pinwheels
Savory flavors that blend perfectly with cheese and spinach
Easy to prepare ahead of time and bake just before serving
Fun and visually appealing for parties

Choosing the Right Puff Pastry

When it comes to selecting puff pastry for your pinwheels, opt for a high-quality brand that’s made with real butter. This will give your pinwheels a flaky, tender texture that enhances the overall eating experience. Most brands are sold in the freezer section, so ensure it’s fully thawed before rolling out. If you’re in a pinch, you can also use store-bought phyllo dough, but be aware that this will result in a crunchier texture rather than the soft, pillowy bite of traditional puff pastry.

Before rolling out your puff pastry, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This brief resting period helps the gluten relax, making it easier to roll without tearing. For a flaky finish, handle the dough as little as possible and keep your work surface lightly floured to prevent sticking. Remember, the magic of puff pastry lies in the steam it generates while baking, so maintaining its thickness is key.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these pinwheels is where you can truly get creative. While the combination of spinach and cheese is classic, you could add sautéed onions or roasted garlic for a deeper flavor profile. If you prefer a creamier texture, try adding an extra ounce of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream to the mixture. This not only enhances creaminess but also helps bind the ingredients together. For a pop of flavor, consider incorporating feta cheese or even crumbled goat cheese alongside the ricotta.

Make sure to thoroughly drain any excess moisture from the spinach. If using fresh spinach, you can sauté it briefly until wilted and then press it in a colander to remove moisture. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and squeeze it dry. Excess moisture can make the filling runny and make the pastry soggy, ruining the delightful crispness you’re aiming for.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These Baked Spinach Pinwheels can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for entertaining. To store them, assemble the pinwheels but do not bake. Instead, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This way, you can simply pop them in the oven when your guests arrive. If longer storage is needed, freeze the rolled pinwheels unbaked. They can be kept in the freezer for up to two months. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

When it comes time to reheat your pinwheels, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake directly from frozen for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and cooked through. This method ensures that they retain their crispness from the puff pastry while thoroughly warming the filling. If they've been refrigerated, bake for around 15-18 minutes until puffed and golden.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create delicious Baked Spinach Pinwheels:

Ingredients

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 package puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start assembling the pinwheels!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Baked Spinach Pinwheels:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Roll Out the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a rectangle. Make sure it’s not too thin to avoid tearing.

Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread half of the filling evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the pastry tightly from one end to the other, forming a log.

Cut and Arrange

Slice the rolled pastry into 1-inch pieces and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pinwheels for about 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.

Enjoy these warm and flaky pinwheels fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the spinach to keep the pinwheels from becoming soggy. You can also add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels are versatile and can be served as a standalone appetizer or alongside a selection of dips like marinara, ranch, or a zesty yogurt sauce. For an elegant presentation, arrange them on a platter and sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color. Pair them with a light salad to balance the richness of the filling, making them suitable for brunches or potlucks.

To enhance the flavor experience, consider adjusting the spices in your filling. Adding crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a nice kick, while fresh herbs like basil or dill can bring brightness to the dish. You can even offer an assortment of pinwheels filled with different ingredients, such as sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes, to give your guests a variety of flavors to enjoy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your pinwheels opening during baking, this could be due to rolling them too loosely. Make sure to roll the pastry tightly and seal the edge well to keep everything contained. If they appear to be browning too quickly, consider covering them loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning while allowing the insides to cook fully.

Another common issue is soggy bottoms. To combat this, place a baking sheet on the oven's bottom rack as a catch for any drips or moisture. Additionally, pre-baking the pastry base for a few minutes before filling can help set the crust and prevent moisture from seeping in, ensuring your pinwheels remain light and flaky.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the filling.

→ How can I make these pinwheels vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure your cheeses are rennet-free if making it for vegetarians.

→ What can I serve with these pinwheels?

They pair well with hummus or a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or marinara.

→ Can I freeze pinwheels before baking?

Absolutely! Just freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.