Add a spicy kick to your next gathering with these savory cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels. This recipe combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the bold flavor of jalapeno peppers. Encased in fluffy crescent roll dough, these pinwheels are sure to be a crowd-pleaser whether you are hosting a party or just enjoying a family dinner.
The main ingredients for this recipe are cream cheese, jalapenos, and crescent dough. Cream cheese is a soft, mild-tasting cheese that is easily spreadable. Jalapenos are medium-sized chili peppers known for their warm, burning sensation when eaten. You should be able to find canned, diced jalapenos in the international or canned veggie aisle at your local supermarket. Lastly, crescent dough is a pre-made dough that can be found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores.
Cream Cheese Jalapeno Pinwheels Ingredients
cream cheese: A versatile ingredient that adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the pinwheels.
crescent dough: This dough is light, fluffy, and perfect for wrapping the cream cheese and jalapeno filling.
jalapenos: These peppers add a spicy kick to the pinwheels. You can adjust the amount of jalapenos based on how spicy you want your pinwheels to be.
sugar: A bit of sugar helps to balance out the heat from the jalapenos.
One reader, Benyamin Hodges says:
These cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels are a game-changer! The creamy texture of the cheese perfectly balances the spicy kick of the jalapenos. The pinwheels are so easy to make and taste absolutely delicious. They're a hit at every gathering and always leave everyone wanting more!
Techniques for Perfect Cream Cheese Jalapeno Pinwheels
How to prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, drained jalapenos, and sugar. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
How to roll the pinwheels: Unroll the crescent dough and split it in half along the seam to create two squares. Pinch the seams together. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each square. Roll the dough up tightly, similar to a hot dog. Then, cut the rolled dough into approximately 8 slices, adjusting the number based on the desired size of the pinwheels.
How to bake the pinwheels: Place the prepared pinwheels on a greased cookie sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 11-13 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
How To Make Cream Cheese Jalapeno Pinwheels
Jalapeno pinwheels are the appetizers for chili-cheese lovers. Cream cheese and jalapeno are used to fill crescent rolls then baked until golden outside.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 8ozcream cheese,(1 block)
- 8ozcrescent dough,(1 can)
- 4ozjalapenos,(1 can) diced
- 1tbspsugar
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Combine cream cheese, jalapenos (drained), and sugar in a small bowl and mix well.
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Unroll the crescent dough and split in half where the seam is so that you have two squares. Pinch the seams together.
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Spread the cream cheese on each side evenly. Roll the dough up like a hot dog. Cut the dough in about 8 slices.
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Place on a greased cookie sheet and bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Calories: 91.97kcal
- Fat: 5.38g
- Saturated Fat: 2.86g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.34g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.41g
- Carbohydrates: 8.91g
- Fiber: 0.58g
- Sugar: 1.64g
- Protein: 2.15g
- Cholesterol: 15.59mg
- Sodium: 138.85mg
- Calcium: 25.81mg
- Potassium: 52.75mg
- Iron: 0.49mg
- Vitamin A: 55.71µg
- Vitamin C: 8.41mg
Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Pinwheel Shape
To ensure your cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels are evenly filled and rolled, spread the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges of the crescent dough. When rolling, start from one end and roll tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out. Using a serrated knife can also help make clean cuts when slicing the roll into pinwheels.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Jalapeno Pinwheels
Prep ahead: Prepare the cream cheese and jalapeno filling the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of baking.
Use pre-sliced jalapenos: Instead of slicing fresh jalapenos, use pre-sliced ones from the store to cut down on prep time.
Chill the dough: Place the rolled-up pinwheels in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will make them easier to cut and maintain their shape.
Bake in batches: If you're making a large batch, bake the pinwheels in batches to ensure even cooking and to save time.
Sharp knife: Use a sharp knife to slice the pinwheels for clean, neat cuts without squishing the dough.
Substitute Ingredients For Cream Cheese Jalapeno Pinwheels Recipe
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor that can work well as a substitute for cream cheese in this recipe. It also adds a bit of protein and reduces the overall fat content.
crescent dough - Substitute with puff pastry: Puff pastry can be used as a substitute for crescent dough in this recipe. It has a similar flaky texture and can be rolled out to encase the filling for the pinwheels.
jalapenos - Substitute with green bell peppers: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute jalapenos with green bell peppers. They still provide a slight crunch and a pop of color without the heat.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener instead of sugar. It adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the filling for the pinwheels.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing them together.
Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used to place the pinwheels in the oven for baking.
Knife: Used for cutting the pinwheels into slices before baking.
Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring small amounts of ingredients, such as sugar.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Jalapeno Pinwheels
- Once the cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To keep the pinwheels fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy, place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of pinwheels in the container.
- If you want to freeze the pinwheels for later enjoyment, follow these steps:
- Place the cooled pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour or until the pinwheels are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen pinwheels to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds until warm, but they may lose some of their crispiness.
- If you have any leftover cream cheese filling, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Use it as a spread for crackers or bagels, or as a dip for vegetables.
How To Reheat Leftover Jalapeno Pinwheels
To reheat leftover cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and the cream cheese is melted and bubbly. This method will help to restore the flakiness of the crescent dough and ensure that the filling is hot and gooey.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pinwheels on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the cream cheese is melted and the crescent dough is crispy. This method is perfect for reheating smaller batches of pinwheels and is faster than using a conventional oven.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the pinwheels on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds at a time, until they are heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as the cream cheese can become too hot and may burn your mouth. This method is best for those who are short on time and want to enjoy their leftover pinwheels as quickly as possible.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to your leftover pinwheels, try brushing them with a mixture of melted butter and garlic powder before reheating. This will give them a delicious garlic butter flavor and will help to keep the crescent dough moist and flaky.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey interior, try reheating your pinwheels in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pinwheels in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and the crescent dough is crispy. This method is perfect for those who love the texture of freshly baked pinwheels and want to enjoy them without having to turn on the oven.
Interesting Trivia About Jalapeno Pinwheels
The cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels recipe is a delicious appetizer that combines the creamy texture of cream cheese with the spicy kick of jalapenos. This savory treat is perfect for parties or gatherings and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a little heat in their snacks. The combination of flavors and textures in this recipe creates a mouthwatering treat that is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you're a fan of spicy foods or just looking for a new appetizer to try, these pinwheels are a must-try!
Is Making Cream Cheese Jalapeno Pinwheels at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels recipe is quite favorable for a household. With simple and affordable ingredients, it offers a delightful treat without straining the budget. The combination of cream cheese, crescent dough, and jalapenos creates a flavorful appetizer or snack. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly option. In terms of taste and affordability, this recipe earns a solid 8 out of 10.
Are Cream Cheese Jalapeno Pinwheels Healthy?
The cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels recipe, while tasty, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe relies heavily on processed ingredients like crescent dough and cream cheese, which are high in saturated fats and calories.
- Jalapenos, although containing vitamins and minerals, are used in a small quantity compared to the other ingredients, minimizing their nutritional impact.
- The addition of sugar further increases the calorie count without providing any nutritional benefits.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the crescent dough for a whole wheat tortilla or lavash bread, which will provide more fiber and nutrients.
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese to lower the saturated fat content without compromising on taste.
- Increase the amount of jalapenos and add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or onions to boost the vitamin and mineral content.
- Omit the sugar entirely or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or agave nectar in a smaller quantity.
- Experiment with adding herbs and spices like garlic powder, cumin, or cilantro to enhance the flavor without relying on unhealthy ingredients.
- Serve the pinwheels with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole to increase the nutritional value of the overall dish.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Appetizer
The cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels recipe is a delightful combination of creamy and spicy flavors wrapped in a flaky crescent dough. The cream cheese filling with jalapenos and a hint of sugar creates a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. The pinwheels are easy to make and bake to a beautiful golden brown, making them a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. The recipe is simple yet impressive, and the pinwheels are sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys a little kick in their appetizers.
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Why trust this Cream Cheese Jalapeno Pinwheels Recipe:
This cream cheese jalapeno pinwheels recipe offers a delightful combination of creamy cream cheese and spicy jalapenos wrapped in flaky crescent dough. The rich and tangy cream cheese balances the heat from the jalapenos, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. With just a hint of sweetness from the sugar, these pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. The simplicity of the recipe allows for easy preparation, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust in the irresistible appeal of these pinwheels to elevate your next culinary creation.
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