Mini Pizza Pinwheels Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful, crowd-pleasing snack that combines the irresistible flavors of pizza with a fun and flaky twist, these Mini Pizza Pinwheels are exactly what you need. Picture soft puff pastry swirled generously with savory pizza sauce, melted mozzarella, and your choice of toppings, baked until golden and inviting. These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing at parties, cozy family gatherings, or even a simple snack that feels a little extra special. Once you try Mini Pizza Pinwheels, they’ll quickly become one of your go-to favorites for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing its own magic to the Mini Pizza Pinwheels. The buttery puff pastry provides that tender, flaky texture while the pizza sauce offers rich, tomatoey goodness. Mozzarella adds the perfect cheesy melt, and toppings like olives or pepperoni lend a burst of flavor and color. The egg wash ensures a beautifully glossy, golden finish on every pinwheel.

• 1 sheet Puff pastry: The light, flaky base that forms the perfect spiral for these pinwheels.
• 1/2 cup Pizza sauce: Adds that classic tangy tomato flavor that brings the pizza experience to life.
• 1 cup Mozzarella (shredded): Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy layers inside each bite.
• 1/4 cup Sliced olives or pepperoni: Pick your favorite topping for an extra burst of savory goodness and color.
• 1 Egg (for egg wash): Brushes on top to create a golden, glossy crust that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Make Mini Pizza Pinwheels

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 190°C (375°F) so it’s perfectly ready when your pinwheels are assembled. Lining your baking tray with parchment paper will prevent sticking and help the pinwheels bake evenly. This simple prep step makes cleanup a breeze, too.

Step 2: Roll and Spread

Unfold your puff pastry sheet onto a clean surface and gently roll it out into a neat rectangle. This ensures every bite is consistent and makes spreading the pizza sauce a smooth process. Evenly slather on the pizza sauce, covering the entire surface except for a small edge to help seal the roll later.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Toppings

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously over the sauce, making sure to cover all those delicious flavors. Then scatter your choice of sliced olives or pepperoni for that classic pizza taste and an extra pop of color. Feel free to get creative or stick with your favorites!

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Starting from one long side, roll your pastry up tightly like a jelly roll or cinnamon roll. This step is key to getting those gorgeous spirals inside each pinwheel. Once rolled, slice the log into pieces about 2 to 3 centimeters thick. These slices are what turn into your Mini Pizza Pinwheels.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Arrange the pinwheels on your parchment-lined tray, leaving a bit of space between each so they can puff up beautifully. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give your pinwheels a tempting golden shine. Bake for around 18 minutes until they’re puffed and perfectly golden brown.

How to Serve Mini Pizza Pinwheels

Garnishes

A fresh sprinkle of chopped basil or a light dusting of dried oregano can really elevate your Mini Pizza Pinwheels, adding vibrant color and fresh herbal notes that complement the rich tomato and cheese flavors beautifully. A side of crushed red pepper flakes offers just the right kick for spice lovers.

Side Dishes

These pinwheels pair wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or a bowl of marinara dipping sauce for extra flavor. They also make a fantastic companion to roasted vegetables or even a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad to balance their richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Mini Pizza Pinwheels on a colorful platter surrounded by fresh veggies or small dipping bowls with ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy mustard for guests to customize their bites. For parties, line them up like a pizza roll-up buffet, inviting everyone to grab and enjoy their favorites with ease and style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Mini Pizza Pinwheels leftover, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep them from getting soggy, placing a paper towel beneath the pinwheels can absorb any excess moisture and keep the pastry crisp.

Freezing

These pinwheels freeze beautifully. Arrange them on a baking sheet without touching and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, pop them back in the oven directly from the freezer to warm and crisp up again.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Mini Pizza Pinwheels in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8 to 10 minutes. This method ensures the pastry regains its flaky texture and the cheese inside melts beautifully without becoming rubbery or dry.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its meltiness, you can also experiment with cheddar, provolone, or even a blend for added flavor complexity. Just keep in mind the melting properties, as some cheeses behave differently in the oven.

Are Mini Pizza Pinwheels suitable for freezing before baking?

Yes, you can prepare and slice the pinwheels, then freeze them unbaked. When you want to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the bake time. This makes for convenient grab-and-bake snacks anytime.

What if I don’t have puff pastry?

Puff pastry creates that signature flaky texture, but in a pinch, you could try using crescent roll dough or even pizza dough for a slightly different but still tasty result. Keep in mind the texture will vary.

Can I make Mini Pizza Pinwheels vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit pepperoni and stick with veggies like olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. They’ll still be packed with flavor and deliciously cheesy.

How do I ensure the pinwheels don’t fall apart?

Make sure to roll the pastry tightly and seal the edge by pressing firmly. Also, slicing with a sharp knife helps keep the spirals intact during baking.

Final Thoughts

Mini Pizza Pinwheels are one of those snacks that bring joy with every flaky, cheesy bite. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any gathering or just a cozy evening at home. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and make these tasty spirals a beloved staple in your snack repertoire!