These Pepperoni Pinwheels are a fun and tasty treat! With layers of dough, pepperoni, and cheese rolled up tightly, they’re perfect for snack time or parties.
Making these pinwheels is so easy! Just roll them up, slice, and bake. They disappear fast, so be ready to share, or not! Who could blame you for keeping them all? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: A refrigerated pizza dough works best for convenience. You can switch it for homemade dough or even a pre-made crust if you prefer. Gluten-free dough is also an option if you need to cater to dietary restrictions.
Pizza Sauce: While a classic pizza sauce is fantastic, you could swap it for marinara or even pesto for a different flavor profile. If you want to keep it simple, even olive oil with some herbs can work.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the go-to for its melty goodness. However, feel free to mix in or substitute with provolone or cheddar for a twist! Some like adding a bit of cream cheese for a rich texture.
Pepperoni: Traditional, but if you’re looking for healthier options, try turkey pepperoni or even salami. For a veggie option, consider using roasted vegetables or mushrooms instead.
How Do You Roll the Dough Without Breaking It?
Rolling the dough can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with room-temperature dough; cold dough tends to be tougher to roll.
- Flour your surface lightly to prevent sticking, but don’t overdo it.
- When rolling, apply even pressure and gently stretch the dough as you go.
- If the dough resists or shrinks, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten before rolling again.
By using these tips, you can roll out your pinwheels smoothly and keep them from breaking apart!
How to Make Pepperoni Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet refrigerated pizza dough (about 13.8 oz)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing)
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling on top
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in just about 30-35 minutes, you can have a scrumptious snack or appetizer ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
On a clean, lightly floured surface, take your refrigerated pizza dough and roll it out gently. Aim to smooth and even it out—this ensures your pinwheels will cook evenly!
3. Add the Sauce:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly across the rolled-out dough, but leave about a 1/2-inch border all around the edges. This helps keep the filling inside as you roll it up.
4. Layer on the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. Make sure it covers the sauce nicely; this will make your pinwheels extra cheesy!
5. Add the Pepperoni:
Place the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese in a single layer, somewhat overlapping them if necessary. You want every bite to have plenty of that delicious pepperoni flavor!
6. Season It Up:
Next, take your dried Italian seasoning and optional garlic powder, and sprinkle them lightly over the pepperoni and cheese. This will add a lovely flavor boost!
7. Roll It Up:
Start at one of the longer edges of the dough and carefully roll it into a tight log or cylinder. It helps to go slowly so that the filling doesn’t spill out.
8. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, cut the log into slices that are about 1-inch thick. These are your pinwheels, so try to keep them uniform in size for even baking!
9. Place on the Baking Sheet:
Lay the pinwheel slices down on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each one. This allows them to cook evenly without sticking together.
10. Add Some Parmesan (Optional):
If you’d like, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each pinwheel for an extra cheesy finish.
11. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
12. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with additional pizza sauce or marinara for dipping, if you like.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Pepperoni Pinwheels! They’re perfect for game day, parties, or just a fun snack any time. Enjoy! 🍕
Can I Use Other Types of Dough for Pinwheels?
Absolutely! You can use homemade dough, crescent rolls, or even puff pastry for a flakier texture. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if using a different type of dough!
How Do I Prevent the Dough from Sticking?
Make sure to lightly flour your work surface when rolling out the dough. If you’re using a non-stick baking sheet, a little grease or parchment paper can keep them from sticking while baking.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking stage and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just keep them covered with plastic wrap. They can also be frozen; just thaw before baking!
What Should I Serve with the Pinwheels?
These pinwheels pair wonderfully with dips like marinara, ranch, or even garlic butter. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or crunchy vegetables for a complete meal.