These Pepperoni Pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! You roll up pepperoni and cheese in dough, slice them, and bake until golden brown. So simple and so good!
Every bite is packed with cheesy goodness and pepperoni flavor. I love serving these at parties—everyone goes for seconds and thirds! Who can resist a yummy pinwheel? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Using refrigerated pizza dough is super convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own dough from scratch. Alternatively, you could use crescent roll dough for a flaky twist!
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for these pinwheels, but feel free to mix it up! Cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor, or you could even try pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure it’s shredded for easy melting.
Pepperoni: Traditional pepperoni adds that familiar flavor, but you can use turkey pepperoni for a lighter option or even salami for a different taste. If you want to keep it vegetarian, consider using roasted vegetables or spinach instead!
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought sauce works great, but you can also use homemade if you have some on hand. If you want to change it up, a garlic butter spread also makes a delicious dipping sauce!
How Do I Make Sure My Pinwheels Are Perfectly Baked?
To get those pinwheels just right, focus on the baking process. It’s important to preheat your oven properly, so the dough puffs up perfectly.
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat completely. This ensures even cooking.
- Keep your pinwheels spaced apart on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, helping them bake evenly.
- Bake until they’re golden brown. If you’re unsure, cooking them a couple of extra minutes usually works, just keep an eye on them!
Let them cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set a bit, so they won’t fall apart when you serve them!
Pepperoni Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough (or about 8 oz)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20–25 slices pepperoni
- 2 tablespoons pizza sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
Optional Toppings:
- Grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake, giving you a total of around 30 minutes to have these delicious Pepperoni Pinwheels ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pinwheels bake evenly. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light coat of cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Dough:
Take your refrigerated pizza dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a rectangle shape—about 10 inches wide and 12 inches long. The dough should be nice and thin for easy rolling.
3. Add the Sauce and Cheese:
Spread 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a half-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce so it covers most of the surface.
4. Layer the Pepperoni:
Now it’s time to add the pepperoni! Lay the slices evenly over the mozzarella, covering the cheese completely. Feel free to add more or less, depending on your taste!
5. Roll It Up:
Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Make sure to keep it tight, but not so tight that the filling spills out.
6. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should get about 12-16 pieces, depending on how thick you cut them.
7. Prepare to Bake:
Place the pinwheels cut side down on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 1 inch apart so they have room to expand while baking. Sprinkle some dried Italian seasoning or oregano on top, and for added flavor, you can add grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melting. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t over-bake!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm alongside extra pizza sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy Pepperoni Pinwheels!
These pinwheels make a fantastic snack, party appetizer, or even a quick meal. Have fun making them and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Dough?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pizza dough works well for a healthier option. If you’re looking for gluten-free, just make sure to choose a gluten-free pizza dough that you enjoy. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?
Yes! Feel free to get creative! You can add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives, or even some cooked sausage or ham. Just make sure the additional ingredients don’t make the filling too wet, as it can affect the pinwheels’ texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, to help retain their crispy texture!
Can I Freeze These Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked pinwheels! Just arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
