Description
Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels are one of those easy appetizer ideas that look impressive but come together with very little effort. Flaky puff pastry wraps around creamy cheese, sweet heat from pepper jelly, smoky bacon, and melty cheddar for a bite that feels perfect for holiday gatherings, game day snacks, brunch spreads, and party food tables. This easy recipe is a great make ahead appetizer when you want simple food ideas that still feel special.
Ingredients
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1/3 cup pepper jelly
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 egg, beaten
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lightly flour a work surface and unfold the puff pastry sheet.
3. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Spoon the pepper jelly over the cream cheese and spread it gently into an even layer.
5. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top.
6. Roll the pastry up tightly from one long side into a log.
7. Chill the log for 15 to 20 minutes so it slices cleanly.
8. Cut the log into 12 even pinwheels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Brush the tops and edges with beaten egg.
10. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
11. Let them cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use cold puff pastry for the neatest spiral shape and the flakiest texture.
Chilling the rolled log before slicing helps keep the filling from squeezing out.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 185mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 32mg
Keywords: pepper jelly cream cheese pinwheels, easy appetizer, party appetizer, puff pastry appetizer, game day snack, holiday appetizer, make ahead appetizer, easy recipe, food ideas