Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels combine everything you love about jalapeño poppers—cream cheese, cheddar, spicy jalapeños, and crispy bacon—rolled up into easy, bite-sized pinwheels. They’re quick to prepare, perfect for make-ahead entertaining, and can be served warm or cold. The creamy, spicy filling balanced with cheesy richness makes them irresistible.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Cooked and crumbled bacon
- Fresh or pickled jalapeños (finely chopped)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour tortillas
- Green onions (optional, finely sliced for extra flavor)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, bacon, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface.
- Spread an even layer of the jalapeño popper mixture over each tortilla, leaving about ½ inch around the edges.
- Roll the tortillas tightly into logs.
- Wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them set.
- Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and slice each roll into ¾-inch thick pinwheels.
- (Optional) For a warm version, bake the sliced pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden and warm.
- Serve immediately, or chill again for a refreshing cold appetizer.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20–24 pinwheels and serves approximately 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Lovers: Use extra jalapeños or add a few dashes of hot sauce for more heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add chopped roasted bell peppers or corn for extra flavor.
- Baked Version: Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or wrap the filling in lettuce leaves.
- Sweet Heat Version: Add a drizzle of honey or a touch of pineapple for a sweet-spicy twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If serving baked pinwheels, reheat them in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until warm. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy.
Unbaked pinwheels can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before baking or serving.
FAQs
Can I make Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the rolls up to a day ahead, then slice before serving.
Can I use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Pickled jalapeños add a tangy flavor and are a great substitute for fresh ones.
How do I keep the pinwheels from unrolling?
Chilling the rolls before slicing helps them hold their shape perfectly.
Can I make them spicier?
Yes, add more jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce for extra kick.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but you can mix in pepper jack or Monterey Jack for variety.
Can I bake all the pinwheels instead of serving cold?
Definitely. Bake them until the cheese melts and the edges turn golden for a warm, melty snack.
Are these good for parties or potlucks?
Yes, they’re ideal for entertaining—easy to transport, serve, and enjoy at room temperature.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas or wraps to make them suitable for gluten-free diets.
How long can they sit out at room temperature?
They can be left out for up to 2 hours. After that, refrigerate to maintain freshness.
Can I air fry the pinwheels?
Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 6–8 minutes until crispy and lightly browned.
Conclusion
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels are the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors wrapped in a soft tortilla for easy snacking. Perfect for parties, game days, or quick appetizers, they’re easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit. Serve them warm or cold, and enjoy every flavorful bite.
PrintJalapeño Popper Pinwheels
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels are creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy tortilla roll-ups filled with a delicious jalapeño popper mixture. Perfect for parties, game days, or quick appetizers, they can be served warm or chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins (optional baking)
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 20–24 pinwheels (serves 4–6)
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: No-Bake or Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2–3 jalapeños, finely chopped (fresh or pickled)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp green onions, finely sliced (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface.
- Spread an even layer of the filling mixture over each tortilla, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edges.
- Roll the tortillas tightly into logs.
- Wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and slice each roll into 3/4-inch thick pinwheels.
- (Optional) For a warm version, bake the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden and warm.
- Serve immediately or chill again before serving cold.
Notes
- Chilling before slicing helps the pinwheels hold their shape.
- Use pickled jalapeños for a tangier flavor.
- For extra spice, add hot sauce or pepper jack cheese.
- Use gluten-free tortillas to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Best enjoyed within 3 days of preparation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pinwheels
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
