Cream Cheese Pinwheels are delicious little bites that are perfect for any gathering! With a mix of creamy cheese and tasty fillings wrapped in soft tortillas, they are a big hit.
Making these is super simple and fun! I love to add different veggies or meats for extra flavor. They disappear quickly at parties, so I always make a double batch—better safe than sorry! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Make sure it’s softened so it spreads easily. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use Neufchâtel cheese. It’s similar but has less fat and works great here!
Tortillas: I prefer flour tortillas for their softness, but you can switch to whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a healthier option. Corn tortillas can be used too, just make sure they’re warm to avoid cracking.
Smoked Salmon: This gives a nice, rich flavor. If you’re not a fan of fish, try deli meats like turkey or chicken, or even a hearty veggie spread instead!
Fresh Herbs: Dill and chives add fresh flavor, but feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or parsley. Dried herbs are also an option—just use less as they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Pinwheels Stay Tight and Tasty?
Keeping your pinwheels tight is key for presentation and to prevent them from falling apart. Here are my tips:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges of the tortilla. This helps seal it as you roll.
- Roll tightly but not too tight; you don’t want to squeeze out the filling. Start from one edge and gently pull as you roll.
- Once rolled, use plastic wrap to tightly encase the pinwheel log before chilling. This helps maintain that shape.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes. This not only firms them up but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
These steps will keep your pinwheels neat and ready to impress!
How to Make Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- 6 oz (170g) smoked salmon slices
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Overall, you’ll spend around 45 minutes from start to tasty finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Start by taking your softened cream cheese and putting it in a medium bowl. Add the finely chopped dill, chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. You want all those delicious flavors blended nicely!
2. Spread the Mixture on the Tortilla:
Take one tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface like a cutting board. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread about 1/4 of your cream cheese mixture evenly over the whole tortilla. Make sure to cover it all the way to the edges!
3. Add the Salmon:
Now it’s time to layer! Place the smoked salmon slices evenly over the cream cheese mixture. This adds a lovely, rich flavor!
4. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. This part is fun! Just make sure not to roll it too tightly; you don’t want to squeeze the filling out!
5. Slice the Pinwheels:
After rolling, take a sharp knife and slice the log into about 12 pinwheel pieces, each about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. You should see those beautiful layers when you cut!
6. Arrange and Garnish:
Place the sliced pinwheels on a serving platter. For a pop of color, sprinkle some additional chopped dill and chives on top as a garnish. They’ll look so inviting!
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the platter with plastic wrap and put it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the pinwheels set nicely and makes them easier to eat!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Cream Cheese Pinwheels at your next gathering or as a tasty snack anytime! They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works just as well and will still give you that creamy texture. Just make sure to let it soften at room temperature for easier spreading.
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You could use cooked chicken, turkey, or a variety of roasted vegetables. For a vegetarian option, try adding different cheeses, olives, or hummus along with your favorite veggies!
How Long Do These Pinwheels Last in the Fridge?
These pinwheels will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out!
Can I Prepare Them In Advance?
Definitely! You can make them a day ahead of time—just keep them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. This will help the flavors meld together nicely, making them taste even better!