If you’re looking for an easy appetizer that is both delicious and visually appealing, look no further than Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels. These festive rolls combine the sweetness of pepper jelly with the creaminess of cream cheese, plus the added crunch of fresh bell peppers and the aromatic flavor of herbs. Not only are they delightful to eat, but they also make a stunning presentation on any table, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. With a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors, every bite is sure to be a hit, appealing to a wide range of taste preferences.
What makes these pinwheels truly special is how simple they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and some easy assembly, you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute gatherings. They can also be prepared ahead of time—just chill, slice, and serve when you’re ready. With their bright colors and fun shapes, these pinwheels add a festive touch and can even be customized to suit your taste. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or adjust to include your favorite ingredients, you’re bound to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for those who want to prepare a snack in under an hour.
- Versatile: Customize with your choice of additional ingredients or herbs.
- Stunning Presentation: Bright colors and rolled shapes make for an attractive platter.
- Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
- Flavorful Combination: Enjoy the delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and creamy.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delicious process of making Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace for a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients: cream cheese, pepper jelly, flour tortillas, bell peppers, fresh herbs, garlic powder, and any preferred seasonings. Make sure to soften the cream cheese beforehand for easier mixing.
For tools, you’ll need a medium-sized mixing bowl, a spatula or mixing spoon, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for slicing the pinwheels. To roll the tortillas neatly, place a large flat surface or a clean counter where you can work comfortably. Consider laying out plastic wrap ahead of time to wrap the completed rolls as this will help keep them chilled and intact while infusing flavors before serving.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup pepper jelly
- 4 large flour tortillas
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by taking a medium-sized mixing bowl and adding the softened cream cheese. Combine it with the pepper jelly, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a spatula or mixing spoon to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This savory-sweet filling is the star of the pinwheels, providing both flavor and creaminess.
Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels
Grab your first tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. With a spatula, spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the entire tortilla, leaving about a ½-inch edge along the sides. Next, sprinkle the sliced bell peppers and chopped herbs evenly across the cream cheese layer. These fresh ingredients add a burst of color and flavor, enticing anyone who sees them!
Step 3: Roll and Chill
Carefully roll the tortilla from one end to the other, making sure to keep it tight but not too tight that the filling spills out. Once rolled, it should resemble a log. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling mixture. After all the rolls are completed, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring they are secure. Place them in the refrigerator and chill for at least one hour; this chilling step allows the flavors to meld together and helps keep the pinwheels intact when slicing.
Variations
- Protein: Add slices of turkey or ham for a heartier option.
- Vegetables: Incorporate shredded carrots or cucumber for extra crunch.
- Spices: Sometimes a dash of cayenne pepper or jalapeños can kick up the heat!
Cooking Notes
- Roll tightly to keep filling from spilling out.
- Chill for at least one hour prior to slicing—this enhances the flavor.
- Experiment with different herb combinations for varied flavor profiles.
- Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on a decorative platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Pair with a side salad for a light lunch option.
Tips
- Make them ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2 days—great for meal prepping!
- Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction on top before serving for added flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of pepper jelly depending on your sweetness preference.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 120 per pinwheel
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
FAQs
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels a day ahead of your event. Just make sure to keep them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
What other spreads can I use instead of pepper jelly?
You can try using different flavored jams, hummus, or even a flavored cream cheese spread for variety.
Can I freeze the pinwheels?
While it’s not recommended to freeze them once filled, you can prepare and freeze the tortillas beforehand. Just thaw and fill when you’re ready to serve!
How do I slice the pinwheels without squishing them?
Use a sharp knife and make sure to slice gently through the roll. Chilling them helps maintain structure, making it easier to slice.
Conclusion
Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible appetizer. Their ease of preparation combined with their vibrant look makes them a staple for any gathering, whether a casual get-together or a fancy feast. With the ability to customize ingredients, you can easily make these pinwheels your own, catering to various taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try them out and make sure to leave a comment about how they turned out or any variations you chose to try!
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Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 pinwheels 1x
Description
Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible appetizer.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup pepper jelly
- 4 large flour tortillas
- ½ cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by taking a medium-sized mixing bowl and adding the softened cream cheese. Combine it with the pepper jelly, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a spatula or mixing spoon to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Grab your first tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. With a spatula, spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the entire tortilla, leaving about a ½-inch edge along the sides. Next, sprinkle the sliced bell peppers and chopped herbs evenly across the cream cheese layer.
- Carefully roll the tortilla from one end to the other, making sure to keep it tight but not too tight that the filling spills out. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling mixture. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour.
Notes
Roll tightly to keep filling from spilling out.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Protein: 3 g