We love making appetizers, snacks, and easy meals in the shape of spirals, and this pinwheels recipe is perfect for that. They’re easy to make with dough and 3-4 other toppings, and they simply bake up on a baking sheet. I have a few flavor options to choose from so you can pick the one that works best for your family. Try Pizza Pinwheels, Broccoli and Cheese Pinwheels, and Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. The beauty of this kid-friendly recipe is that it’s easy to make and also easy to freeze so you can have your own stash of heat-and-eat freezer meals ready and waiting. (You may also like Cheesy Rice, Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese, and Pizza Rolls.
Ingredients You Need
Here’s a look at the ingredients you need to make this easy pinwheels recipe so you know what to have on hand and ready to go. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Refrigerated crescent dough (or pizza dough): To make this super easy, I like to use crescent dough from the store. You can also use purchased or homemade Whole-Wheat Pizza Dough. The main difference is how long it takes to prep the dough. They bake similarly. Cheese: Depending on the flavor you decide to make, you can use mozzarella cheese or shredded cheddar cheese. Sauce: Depending on the flavor you make, you can use pizza sauce or cream cheese. Adding one of these ensures the finished pinwheels are moist and flavorful. Veggies: For the pizza pinwheel flavor, you can add any veggies you like to add to pizza. For the broccoli and cheese flavor, you can add cooked minced broccoli. Spices: We can add more flavor by adding dried spices to each of the flavor options if desired. Dips: Each of the flavors of pinwheels can be served with a dip, as you like.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Below is an overview of how to make this pinwheel recipe so you know what to expect. Scroll down to the end of this post for the full information, including the times and amounts. TIP: Some people like to make Pinwheel Sandwiches, which are a no-cook option made with flour tortilla and fillings such as turkey, ham, bell pepper, lettuce, green onion, shredded or sliced chicken, salami, or other fillings.
How to Store
Once cooled, you can store the pinwheels recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on a heat-safe plate in the microwave or for 2-3 minutes in an air fryer on 325 degrees F. You can also place the cooled pinwheels into a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal. Freeze for up to 6 months. To warm from frozen, place on a heat-safe plate and warm in 15-second increments in the microwave.
Best Tips for Success
Use store-bought crescent dough, whole-wheat pizza dough, Greek yogurt pizza dough, or store-bought pizza dough. Add minced broccoli, shredded carrots, minced fresh spinach, or any other veggie your kids like. Add pepperoni, cooked crumbled sausage, or any other meat your family likes. Serve with warm pizza sauce or marinara sauce for dipping. Let cool for 2 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a plate to let the cheese cool briefly. Serve this as an easy toddler dinner, a non-sandwich lunch, an after school snack, or an appetizer.
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