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Crispy Cheesy Veggie Pinwheel Bites

crispy cheesy veggie pinwheel bites - featured image

These crispy cheesy veggie pinwheel bites are a quick and easy appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a flavorful blend of cream cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh veggies. Perfect for parties or a satisfying snack, they deliver a delightful combination of melty cheese and fresh veggie crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (approx. 17.3 oz / 490 g) puff pastry sheets, thawed
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (about 100 g) shredded cheddar cheese, sharp or mild
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup finely diced red bell pepper
  • ½ cup finely grated zucchini (excess moisture squeezed out)
  • 2 medium green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, diced red bell pepper, grated zucchini (squeezed dry), and sliced green onions. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and spreadable (about 3-5 minutes).
  3. On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet into a 12×9 inch (30×23 cm) rectangle. If edges are uneven, gently roll with a rolling pin to smooth. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a ½-inch (1.3 cm) border on all sides.
  4. Starting from the longer edge, roll the pastry into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 even pinwheels, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. Place pinwheels cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
  5. Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg for a golden crust. Bake for 15-18 minutes until puffed and golden brown, watching closely after 12 minutes to avoid burning.

Notes

Dry grated zucchini and bell peppers thoroughly to prevent soggy pinwheels. Keep puff pastry cold while working to maintain flakiness. Use a sharp knife for clean slices to ensure even baking. Pinwheels can be assembled ahead and frozen before baking; add a few extra minutes to baking time when baking from frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy pinwheels, veggie pinwheels, appetizer, puff pastry snacks, easy party food, cheesy bites, quick snack