Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels are a tasty twist on a classic snack! They are made with cream cheese, spicy jalapenos, and rolled up with tortillas for easy, fun bites.
These little treats are perfect for parties or game days. Just roll, slice, and watch them disappear. I can’t help but eat a few too many—just so good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Eggs are the base of this recipe, providing structure. For a vegetarian option, you could use egg substitutes or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess. If you want a lower-fat option, try Neufchâtel cheese. Vegan cream cheese works well too!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is perfect for a bold flavor. You can swap it for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste. Vegan cheese is also an option here.
Bacon: Bacon gives a smoky flavor. If you prefer, use turkey bacon, or skip it altogether for a vegetarian version. Diced smoked paprika can help mimic the smokiness.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos are the star! If you’re looking for less heat, try poblano peppers or bell peppers for a milder effect. You can also use jarred jalapenos, but drain them well.
How Can You Roll the Pinwheels Without Breaking Them?
Rolling the pinwheels can be tricky but following these steps can help you achieve a perfect roll!
- Let the egg sheet cool a bit before rolling; this helps avoid breakage.
- Use the parchment paper to lift and support the roll as you go. This way, you can gently guide it without direct pressure.
- Roll tightly but not too tight—just enough to hold it together without squishing it.
- Chill the rolled log in plastic wrap; this makes slicing easier and keeps them from falling apart.
By using these tips, your Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels will come out looking and tasting great every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1-2 fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-18 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll need to let the pinwheels chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving. Overall, plan for about 1.5 hours to make sure everything sets nicely!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the egg mixture through without overcooking it. Line a 9×13 inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the 8 large eggs until they are smooth. Then add the softened cream cheese and whisk again until it’s fully combined. It’s okay if there are some small lumps of cream cheese remaining; they will blend in as the mixture cooks.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, sliced jalapenos, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the egg and cream cheese mixture. Mix everything well until it’s evenly distributed—this is where the fun flavors come together!
4. Bake the Egg Mixture:
Pour the egg mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it out into a thin, even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the eggs are set and no longer runny.
5. Roll it Up:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and cool it for 2-3 minutes. This step helps it firm up so it’s easier to roll. Using the parchment paper, carefully roll the egg sheet up into a tight log shape. The parchment will help you roll it smoothly without it sticking.
6. Chill and Slice:
Wrap the rolled log tightly in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling step makes the pinwheels easier to slice and holds their shape. Once chilled, unwrap the log and slice it into about 1/2 inch thick pinwheels.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter. These Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels can be served cold or warmed slightly. Either way, they are super tasty and perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy your flavorful Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels, a delightful combination of creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and spicy jalapeno in a fun, bite-sized roll!
Can I Use Egg Whites Instead of Whole Eggs?
Absolutely! You can use egg whites for a lighter version of these pinwheels. Just substitute the whole eggs with an equal amount of egg whites. You’ll need about 1/4 cup of egg whites for each egg, so for 8 eggs, use 2 cups of egg whites.
How Do I Add More Flavor to My Pinwheels?
To amp up the flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika into the egg mixture. You can also mix in additional ingredients such as diced tomatoes, olives, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences!
Can These Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, these pinwheels are great for making ahead! Prepare and roll them, then simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. They can be made up to a day ahead for a convenient and easy-to-serve snack or appetizer.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are delicious cold, but you can also reheat them briefly in the microwave if you prefer them warm!