If you love all things cheesy, savory, and full of fresh, vibrant greens, then you are going to absolutely fall for this Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe. Imagine bite-sized, golden pastries bursting with creamy spinach and artichoke filling, melted mozzarella, and a hint of Parmesan, all wrapped in perfectly flaky crescent dough. These pinwheels are not only a feast for the eyes but also a reliably delicious appetizer or snack that will have everyone asking for more. Whether you’re preparing for a casual get-together or a festive occasion, this recipe brings warmth, comfort, and irresistible flavor to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe is all about bringing together simple, wholesome ingredients that shine both individually and harmoniously. From the tender chopped spinach to the luscious mix of creaminess and cheese, each component plays a pivotal role in texture, flavor, and visual appeal.
- Artichoke hearts (1 14-ounce can, drained and chopped): Adds tender, tangy bites packed with earthy flavor.
- Baby spinach (2 cups, chopped): Brings a fresh, green brightness and a soft texture.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Offers creamy richness and a subtle tang that balances the filling.
- Mayonnaise (⅓ cup): Helps bind the filling while adding moisture and silkiness.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Infuses a gentle, warm garlicky undertone without overpowering.
- Onion powder (¼ teaspoon): Complements the garlic with sweet, savory notes.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to brighten and enhance every flavor in the dish.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully, adding gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Freshly grated Parmesan (¼ cup): Provides a nutty, sharp accent that elevates the cheesy filling.
- Crescent rolls (2 8-ounce tubes): The golden, flaky canvas that holds all the deliciousness together.
- Large egg, beaten (1): Used to brush on top for a glossy and perfectly browned crust.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a final pop of color and a fresh herbal zing.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Preparation and Preheating
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the pinwheels bake evenly and don’t stick. This simple prep sets the stage for a flawless baking experience.
Step 2: Creating the Creamy Filling
In a mixing bowl, bring together the chopped artichoke hearts, baby spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir well until every bite will have a perfect balance of creamy texture and cheesy flavor. This combination is the heart and soul of the Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe.
Step 3: Preparing the Dough Base
Lightly flour your work surface and unroll both tubes of crescent dough. Seal the perforations carefully to create two solid sheets. This is your delicious canvas, ready to be covered with the flavorful filling.
Step 4: Spreading the Filling
Spread the spinach and artichoke mixture evenly over both crescent dough sheets. Make sure to cover every inch, so each pinwheel carries the wonderful filling in every spiral.
Step 5: Rolling and Slicing
Roll each dough sheet tightly into a log, taking care to keep the filling snug inside. Next, slice each log into 1-inch thick pinwheels—the perfect size for a party appetizer or snack.
Step 6: Preparing for Baking
Place your pinwheels cut-side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve that irresistibly golden and shiny finish once baked.
Step 7: Baking to Perfection
Bake the pinwheels for about 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them—the smell alone will tell you when they’re ready!
Step 8: Adding the Finishing Touch
Once baked, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the warm pinwheels. This simple garnish not only brightens the look but adds fresh flavor, rounding out the Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe beautifully.
How to Serve Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of chopped fresh parsley is ideal to enhance the pinwheels’ fresh and cheesy notes. For a bolder touch, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil can excite the palate and elevate presentation.
Side Dishes
These pinwheels pair wonderfully with crisp salads—think mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette or a kale Caesar—to balance out the richness. A bowl of marinara or creamy ranch for dipping invites a fun, interactive element for guests.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pinwheels on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs or alongside colorful veggies for eye-catching contrast. For parties, arrange them on tiered trays or inside a hollowed-out bread bowl filled with a warm dipping sauce. Presentation becomes part of the experience with this flexible recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They remain fresh for up to 3 days and retain their flavors and textures wonderfully when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked pinwheels by placing them on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for fresh-from-the-oven goodness anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pinwheels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, just until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that flaky texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?
While fresh artichokes can be used, they require more prep—such as boiling and trimming. Canned artichoke hearts are a convenient and consistently tender option that works perfectly in this recipe.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
This Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it’s packed with veggies and cheese without meat. Feel free to use vegetarian mozzarella and Parmesan to keep it fully meat-free.
Can I substitute crescent rolls with puff pastry?
Yes! Puff pastry adds an even flakier, buttery crunch. Just make sure to thaw the pastry completely and roll it out to the right thickness to hold the filling and maintain easy rolling.
How spicy is this recipe?
The original recipe is mild, focusing on creamy, cheesy flavors. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or cayenne if you’d like a subtle spicy kick in your pinwheels.
Can I make these gluten-free?
You can try using gluten-free crescent dough available in some specialty stores, but the texture will vary slightly. The filling remains naturally gluten-free, so it’s mostly about choosing the right dough substitute.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing, effortless appetizer that feels both comforting and special, the Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe is your go-to. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of creamy filling and golden, flaky crust. Trust me, once you try making these, they’ll quickly become a staple for gatherings, game days, or simply a cozy snack that makes any day brighter. Go ahead, give this recipe a whirl and delight yourself and your loved ones with a tasty spin on a classic favorite.
Print
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 pinwheels
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully cheesy and flavorful spinach and artichoke pinwheels made with creamy sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties or snacks, baked to golden perfection and topped with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Dough and Topping
- 2 (8-ounce) tubes crescent rolls
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, chopped spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare Dough: On a lightly floured surface, unroll the crescent dough from both tubes. Seal the perforations carefully to form two solid dough sheets without holes.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the prepared spinach and artichoke mixture over the entire surface of each dough sheet, ensuring the filling reaches all edges.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from one edge, tightly roll each dough sheet into a log. Slice each rolled log into approximately 1-inch wide pinwheels.
- Arrange and Brush: Place the pinwheels cut-side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden crust once baked.
- Bake: Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: After baking, sprinkle the pinwheels with the freshly chopped parsley. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure crescent dough perforations are fully sealed to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Use fresh spinach and artichokes for best flavor and texture.
- Brush pinwheels with beaten egg for a beautiful golden crust; you can substitute with milk if needed but egg gives best shine.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven to maintain crispiness.
- These pinwheels are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a tasty appetizer.
