Pepperoni pinwheels are a fun snack that’s easy to make! Just roll up pepperoni and cheese in a soft dough, slice, and bake until golden. Perfect for any party!
These little treats are always a hit! I love serving them warm, straight from the oven. They disappear so fast, I sometimes forget to save one for later! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Store-bought dough is super convenient, but you can make your own if you’re up for it. Gluten-free dough is also an excellent alternative for those with dietary restrictions. I like a classic pizza dough for that fluffy texture!
Pepperoni: You can use turkey pepperoni for a lighter option. If you’re veggie, consider using sliced bell peppers and olives for a fun twist. I sometimes chop up some salami or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella adds a lovely creaminess. However, if you’re in a pinch, pre-shredded mozzarella works just fine. For extra flavor, blend in some provolone or cheddar.
Pizza Sauce: Homemade sauce is fantastic, but store-bought saves time. Try pesto for a unique taste. If you want a kick, a spicy marinara can be delicious!
How Do You Roll Perfect Pinwheels?
Rolling the dough tightly is key for great-looking pinwheels! Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your dough is rolled to an even rectangle. This makes it easier to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Spread the sauce and toppings as close to the edges as possible without overflowing. Leave a little margin.
- When rolling, keep it tight but not overly so, as you want to maintain some space for the toppings.
- Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice your pinwheels evenly. This helps them bake uniformly.
Taking your time with these steps ensures lovely pinwheels that look as good as they taste!
How to Make Pepperoni Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough (about 13.8 oz)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 6 oz sliced pepperoni
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. Altogether, you can have delicious pepperoni pinwheels ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick snack or party treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the pinwheels don’t stick!
2. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, unroll the pizza dough. Use a rolling pin to stretch it out into a rectangle that’s about 12×10 inches. This gives you enough space to fill it up!
3. Spread the Sauce:
Using a spoon, spread the pizza sauce (or marinara) evenly across the rolled-out dough. Make sure to leave about a 1/2-inch border along the edges so it doesn’t spill out when you roll it up.
4. Add the Pepperoni:
Layer the pepperoni slices evenly over the sauce, covering it completely. Feel free to add more if you’re a pepperoni lover!
5. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni. Make sure to distribute it evenly so every bite will be cheesy!
6. Roll It Up:
Starting with the long edge of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. This is where you create the pinwheel shape!
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
With a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Try to be as even as possible so they all bake evenly.
8. Prepare for Baking:
Place the pinwheels cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Space them about an inch apart to allow them to expand as they bake.
9. Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle Italian seasoning and optional grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each pinwheel for added flavor.
10. Bake:
Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. They’re ready when the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly!
11. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Then, serve them warm and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy pepperoni pinwheels!
Can I Use Homemade Dough for These Pinwheels?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough will work perfectly. Just make sure it’s rolled out to the same size as the store-bought dough, about 12×10 inches, for even baking.
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey pepperoni is a lighter option. You can also use veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even sliced ham or salami for different flavors!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through to keep them nice and crispy.
Can I Freeze Unbaked Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked pinwheels! Simply slice them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze for a couple of hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen when you’re ready; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time!