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Italian Pinwheels

Italian Pinwheels

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Pinwheels are a savory appetizer packed with classic Italian flavors. Featuring layers of deli meats, cheese, and tangy cream cheese spread, all rolled up in soft tortillas, they’re perfect for parties, picnics, or quick snacks. Their colorful, spiral appearance makes them as attractive as they are delicious—ideal for impressing guests with minimal effort.

ingredients

Italian Pinwheels this Recipe
Italian Pinwheels 10 Italian Pinwheels are a savory appetizer packed with classic Italian flavors. Featuring layers of deli meats, cheese, and tangy cream cheese spread, all rolled up in soft tortillas, they’re perfect for parties, picnics, or quick snacks. Their colorful, spiral appearance makes them as attractive as they are delicious—ideal for impressing guests with minimal effort.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flour tortillaspesto or Italian seasoned cream cheesecream cheese (softened)sliced salami sliced pepperonisliced hamprovolone cheese (or mozzarella)fresh spinach leavesroasted red peppers (optional)

directions

Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface.

Spread an even layer of cream cheese (or pesto-infused cream cheese) across the entire surface.

Layer with slices of salami, ham, pepperoni, and cheese.

Add a few spinach leaves and roasted red peppers for added flavor and color.

Tightly roll up the tortilla, starting from one end to form a log.

Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.

Once chilled, slice into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife.

Arrange on a platter and serve cold or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Italian Pinwheels
Italian Pinwheels 11 Italian Pinwheels are a savory appetizer packed with classic Italian flavors. Featuring layers of deli meats, cheese, and tangy cream cheese spread, all rolled up in soft tortillas, they’re perfect for parties, picnics, or quick snacks. Their colorful, spiral appearance makes them as attractive as they are delicious—ideal for impressing guests with minimal effort.

This recipe yields approximately 24 pinwheels (from 3 large tortillas).Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use sun-dried tomato wraps or spinach tortillas for a colorful twist.

Add banana peppers or olives for extra zest.

Swap meats with turkey or roast beef for a different flavor profile.

Include a dash of Italian seasoning in the cream cheese for extra herbiness.

storage/reheating

Store Italian Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.These are best served cold and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they’re great made a few hours ahead. Just keep them chilled until serving.

Can I freeze Italian Pinwheels?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the tortillas and cream cheese may change.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Provolone, mozzarella, or even cheddar can work well, depending on your preference.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, you can adjust the filling to be more kid-friendly by reducing spicy or strong ingredients.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Absolutely—herb or garlic-flavored cream cheese enhances the taste.

Conclusion

Italian Pinwheels are a flavorful, easy-to-make appetizer that brings together the bold tastes of Italian deli favorites in one convenient bite. Whether you’re prepping for a party or packing a lunchbox, these vibrant spirals are sure to be a hit. Try customizing them with your favorite meats and cheeses to make them your own.

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Italian Pinwheels

Italian Pinwheels

  • Author: slsrecipes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 20–24 pinwheels (serves 6–8)
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Delicious and easy-to-make Italian pinwheels featuring savory Italian meats, cheeses, and herbs rolled in a flaky puff pastry—perfect appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)
  • 4 slices prosciutto or Genoa salami
  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • 2 tbsp sun‑dried tomato pesto or marinara sauce
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Optional: 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry into a 10×12‑inch rectangle.
  3. Spread sun‑dried tomato pesto over the pastry, leaving a ½‑inch border.
  4. Layer prosciutto (or salami), then provolone slices evenly on top.
  5. Sprinkle chopped basil and Italian seasoning over the cheese. Optional: sprinkle Parmesan.
  6. Starting from a long side, roll pastry up tightly into a log.
  7. Brush the log with beaten egg to seal and aid browning.
  8. Slice into ½‑inch pinwheels. Place cut‑side up on baking sheet, about 1″ apart.
  9. Brush tops lightly with remaining egg wash.
  10. Bake 12–15 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
  11. Cool 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • You can swap meats and cheeses—try pepperoni and mozzarella for variation.
  • Freeze unbaked pinwheels on a tray, then store in zip‑top bag to bake later.
  • Serve with marinara or pesto dipping sauce.