Print

Savory Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels with Cream Cheese and Bacon

jalapeño popper pinwheels - featured image
Print Recipe

These pinwheels combine creamy cream cheese, smoky bacon, and a mild jalapeño kick wrapped in flaky puff pastry for a quick and delicious appetizer perfect for entertaining or casual snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Optional: extra shredded cheddar for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Cook the bacon until crisp: Place 4 slices in a cold skillet over medium heat. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
  3. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat), minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly blended.
  4. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a roughly 12×12-inch square, smoothing any creases but not too thin (about 1/8 inch thick).
  5. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch border along one edge to help seal the roll.
  6. Starting from the edge with the filling, carefully roll into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal and tuck the ends under.
  7. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the log into 1/2-inch thick rounds to make about 12-14 pinwheels.
  8. Arrange the pinwheels cut side up on the baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart.
  9. Lightly brush the tops with beaten egg to promote a golden, shiny finish. Optionally, sprinkle extra shredded cheddar on top.
  10. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown, checking after 12 minutes to avoid burning.
  11. Let the pinwheels rest for 5 minutes on the tray before transferring to a wire rack or serving plate.

Notes

Keep puff pastry cold until rolling to prevent sticking or tearing. Use medium heat to cook bacon crisp but not burnt. Remove jalapeño seeds to reduce heat or leave some for more spice. Chill rolled dough for 10 minutes if too soft before slicing. Avoid overbaking to keep filling moist and pastry flaky. Pinwheels can be prepared ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking. Freeze unbaked pinwheels for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper pinwheels, appetizer, cream cheese, bacon, puff pastry, easy snack, party food, spicy appetizer

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/savory-jalape-n-o-popper-pinwheels-recipe-easy-homemade-appetizer-with-cream-cheese-and-bacon/