Name: Pepperoni Pinwheels Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 cup tomato sauce; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 sheet premade puff pastry; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 20 pepperoni slices; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); Pinch of salt; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon grated parmesan cheese

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 14 reviews

I am beyond excited to share this Pepperoni Pinwheels Recipe with you—a delightful appetizer that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! Imagine golden, flaky puff pastry rolled with gooey mozzarella and spicy pepperoni, all kissed with flavorful garlic butter and parmesan. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just craving a cozy snack, these pinwheels bring a perfect balance of cheesy richness and savory spice that always steals the show. Trust me, once you try this Pepperoni Pinwheels Recipe, it’ll become an instant favorite in your snack rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nine pieces of uncooked roll dough are arranged in three rows on a light beige surface. Each piece is a thick slice of a spiral roll with multiple layers: the outer layer is smooth and white dough, then a thin spread of reddish sauce, followed by a light pink meat layer, and some shredded pale cheese inside the spiral. The texture of the dough looks soft and slightly puffy. The pieces vary slightly in shape but all show the spiral of layers clearly. The background is a white marbled surface with soft lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this Pepperoni Pinwheels Recipe is a breeze because each component plays an essential role in creating the perfect bite. From the flaky puff pastry that provides the tender, buttery base, to the rich mozzarella and zesty pepperoni that bring bold flavors, every ingredient is a star. The seasoning and garlic butter add depth and a touch of indulgence that will elevate your pinwheels to a whole new level.

1 sheet premade puffy pastry: The crisp and flaky foundation that makes these pinwheels irresistible and light.
2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully for that classic gooey, stretchy texture.
20 pepperonis: Adds spice and a savory punch to complement the cheese perfectly.
1 cup tomato sauce: Provides tang and moisture to balance the richness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
Pepper to taste: A subtle kick that brings warmth and depth.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dish with aromatic garlic flavor.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds classic Mediterranean notes.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Creates a golden, flavorful finish when brushed on the pinwheels.
Pinch salt: For seasoning the garlic butter perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives the butter extra garlicky goodness.
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Continues the herby theme in the finishing butter glaze.
1 teaspoon parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a savory, nutty topping for that final layer of flavor.

How to Make Pepperoni Pinwheels Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Sauce

Start by blending your pizza sauce ingredients—including tomato sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning—in a small bowl. Stirring well ensures all those flavors marry beautifully, setting a vibrant base for the pinwheels. This simple sauce is an easy way to introduce depth and tang without much fuss.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Lightly flour your workspace, then carefully unfold the puff pastry sheet. Evenly spread about one-third of a cup of your prepared pizza sauce over the dough. This layer acts like a sticky, flavorful glue for the toppings and prevents dryness during baking. Taking this step gently but thoroughly will make for the perfect canvas.

Step 3: Layer Cheese and Pepperoni

Next, sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauced dough, ensuring every bite promises a cheesy gooey pull. Then, layer on the pepperoni slices; spacing them well creates little pockets of spice throughout the pinwheels. Once assembled, begin rolling the puff pastry sheet tightly from one edge into a neat log without squeezing out the fillings.

Step 4: Chill and Slice

Pop the rolled log into the refrigerator for 30 minutes; this resting time allows the dough to firm up, making it much easier to slice neatly. When chilled, use a serrated knife to cut the log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. This step ensures your pinwheels hold their shape while baking, with those beautiful spiral layers on full display.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the pinwheels on the sheet with a little space between them, so they bake evenly and become delightfully crisp on the edges. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and flaky—your kitchen will start smelling heavenly.

Step 6: Finish with Garlic Butter

While the pinwheels bake, mix melted butter with a pinch of salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated parmesan. Once the pinwheels are hot out of the oven, brush them generously with this garlic butter blend. The warm butter seeps into the layers, adding richness and a fragrant garlic note that takes these snacks from great to unforgettable.

How to Serve Pepperoni Pinwheels Recipe

A rectangular piece of dough lies flat on a white marbled surface, spread evenly with a dark red tomato sauce that stops about half an inch from the edges. On top of the sauce is a thick layer of shredded white cheese covering most of the surface. Scattered evenly over the cheese are round pepperoni slices, each one a deep reddish-orange color with small specks of seasoning visible. The edges of the dough are plain, showing its pale beige color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra splash of flavor and color, sprinkle pinwheels with freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves just before serving. A light grating of additional parmesan can also elevate the presentation and taste. These simple garnishes make your snack pop visually and add fresh herbal notes that complement the cheesy, spicy filling.

Side Dishes

Pair these Pepperoni Pinwheels with crisp veggie sticks or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. A cool cucumber and tomato salad or even a zesty coleslaw can add refreshing textures and flavors, creating a well-rounded spread that’s perfect for casual get-togethers or quick lunches.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, arrange your pinwheels on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of extra pizza sauce or ranch dip. You can also thread a toothpick through each pinwheel and serve them as easy finger foods. Adding colorful napkins or themed skewers turns these tasty bites into a festive party treat everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain moist yet crisp enough for a day or two, making them perfect for quick snacks or lunchbox additions. Just remember to cover them well to keep that garlic butter flavor locked in.

Freezing

If you want to save pinwheels for a later date, freeze them before baking by slicing the rolled log and placing the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag or container. This way, you can bake fresh pinwheels anytime with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Reheating

To bring leftover or frozen pinwheels back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to maintain the flaky pastry texture. A quick brush of garlic butter after reheating will refresh their irresistible flavor.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of puff pastry?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough can be used, but the texture will be different—chewier and less flaky. Puff pastry offers that light, layered crispness which makes these pinwheels truly special, but feel free to experiment based on your preference and time.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Mozzarella is the classic choice because it melts evenly and creates that lovely stretch. However, blending mozzarella with a bit of provolone or cheddar can add an extra dimension of flavor without sacrificing meltiness.

Can I make these pinwheels vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the pepperoni and consider adding sliced olives, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms. These make great vegetarian alternatives that still deliver plenty of flavor and texture.

Do I have to use garlic butter, or can I skip it?

You can skip brushing on garlic butter, but it really enhances the pinwheels with extra flavor and a beautiful golden finish. If you prefer, a light sprinkle of dried herbs or parmesan after baking can still make these pinwheels special.

How long can I keep the pre-sliced pinwheels in the fridge before baking?

It’s best to refrigerate them no longer than 24 hours before baking to preserve freshness and prevent the dough from drying out. If you want longer storage, freezing is your friend—just make sure to bake them directly from frozen.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly wonderful about sharing a dish that brings smiles and comfort in every bite, and this Pepperoni Pinwheels Recipe does just that. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion where good food and good company matter. I can’t wait for you to try making these at home—once you do, they’re sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!