Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pizza pinwheels are simple to prepare and incredibly versatile. They’re great for using store-bought dough, saving time while still delivering homemade flavor. The spiral shape makes them visually appealing and ideal for parties or lunchboxes. You can customize the fillings to suit any taste, from classic pepperoni to veggie-packed versions. They’re also easy to make ahead and reheat beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 sheet pizza dough or refrigerated dough
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pepperoni slices or other toppings
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Add pepperoni or your preferred toppings.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the filling.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Slice the roll into 1-inch thick pieces.
- Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 to 15 pinwheels.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 to 18 minutes
Total time: 30 to 35 minutes
Variations
You can easily customize pizza pinwheels. Try a vegetarian version with mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers. For a cheesy option, add ricotta or cheddar along with mozzarella. A spicy version can include jalapeños or chili flakes. You can also make a Hawaiian-style variation with ham and pineapple. For a different flavor twist, use pesto instead of pizza sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a crispier texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soft.
FAQs
Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes, puff pastry will give a flakier, lighter texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and slice them, then refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze pizza pinwheels?
Yes, freeze them before or after baking. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.
What toppings work best?
Pepperoni, sausage, vegetables, and different cheeses all work well.
How do I keep the pinwheels from unrolling?
Roll the dough tightly and place them seam-side down if needed.
Can I use homemade dough?
Yes, homemade pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe.
Are they good for parties?
Yes, their bite-sized shape makes them ideal for sharing.
Can I make them healthier?
Use whole wheat dough and add more vegetables for a lighter version.
Why are my pinwheels soggy?
Too much sauce can make them soggy. Use a moderate amount.
Can I serve them with dipping sauce?
Yes, pizza sauce, marinara, or garlic sauce are great options.
Conclusion
Pizza pinwheels are a simple, delicious way to enjoy pizza in a fun and portable form. With endless customization options and quick preparation, they are perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to party platters. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a regular favorite.
PrintPizza Pinwheels
Golden, cheesy pizza pinwheels rolled with savory sauce and toppings, baked into bite-sized spirals perfect for snacks, parties, or quick meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 15 pinwheels
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 1 sheet pizza dough or refrigerated dough
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices or other toppings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Add pepperoni or your desired toppings.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the filling.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Slice into 1-inch thick pieces.
- Place pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use puff pastry for a flakier texture variation.
- Avoid adding too much sauce to prevent sogginess.
- Try pesto instead of pizza sauce for a flavor twist.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Great served with marinara or garlic dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pinwheels
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg