Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
Your new favorite party food! These flaky Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels are so easy to make with puff pastry. A guaranteed creamy, savory hit, they are perfect for any occasion, from game day to family gatherings. With their delightful combination of flavors and textures, these pinwheels will quickly become a go-to appetizer that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these delicious pinwheels in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or even as a fun snack at home.
- Versatile Flavor: The creamy spinach dip filling offers a rich taste that pairs well with puff pastry, making it a delightful combination.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pinwheels in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. This makes party planning a breeze!
- Vegetarian-Friendly: These pinwheels are suitable for vegetarians, making them a great option for various dietary preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your pinwheels evenly.
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients smoothly without mess.
- Plastic wrap: Helps keep the rolled log firm while chilling, ensuring clean slices.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 bag frozen chopped spinach (10 oz) thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 block cream cheese (8 oz) softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- pinch red pepper flakes, optional for heat
For the Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed but still cold
- 1 egg, for brushing
How to Make Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Grab a bowl and add the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, mayo, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Then add the squeezed spinach. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Flour your counter lightly. Roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle shape. Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the pastry but leave one long side empty to seal later. Roll it up tightly like a jelly roll.
Step 3: Chill the Log
Wrap the rolled log in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up. Preheat your oven to 400°F while you wait.
Step 4: Slice and Bake
Take the log out of the fridge and slice it into half-inch rounds. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat an egg with a splash of water and brush it over the tops of each pinwheel. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they puff up and turn golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels! Perfectly flaky on the outside with a creamy filling inside, they are sure to be devoured by all!
How to Serve Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
These delightful Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels are perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a snack, these pinwheels can be served in multiple ways to impress your guests.
As Part of a Platter
- Serve alongside a variety of dips like hummus and salsa for a colorful spread.
- Add some fresh vegetables and crackers to complement the flavors.
Pair with a Salad
- A light side salad can balance the richness of the pinwheels, enhancing your meal.
- Consider a simple Caesar or mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
With Drinks
- These pinwheels pair well with cocktails like mimosas or beer.
- Offer them as an appetizer before dinner, making your guests feel welcomed.
At a Buffet
- Arrange them on a buffet table for guests to grab as they mingle.
- Stack them in mini cups for easy serving and added presentation.
For Game Day
- Serve these pinwheels at game day parties along with chips and guacamole.
- They make great finger food while everyone enjoys the match.
How to Perfect Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
To ensure your Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use thawed spinach: Always ensure your frozen spinach is fully thawed and drained to avoid soggy pinwheels.
- Room temperature cream cheese: Let the cream cheese soften before mixing; this makes blending easier and smoother.
- Seal properly: When rolling the puff pastry, seal the edges well to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
- Chill before slicing: Refrigerate the rolled log before slicing to maintain shape and prevent squishing.
- Watch the oven: Keep an eye on them while baking; ovens vary, and you want them golden brown without burning.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste for added flavor or heat!
Best Side Dishes for Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
Complementing your Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Breadsticks – Soft and chewy breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make a perfect pairing.
- Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide an earthy contrast.
- Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad with vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess of the pinwheels.
- Vegetable Crudites – Crisp veggies served with ranch dip offer crunch and freshness alongside rich flavors.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet touch that complements savory bites.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping the thawing process: Always thaw your frozen spinach properly. This ensures the mixture is creamy and not watery.
- Neglecting to dry spinach: Squeezing out excess moisture is crucial. This helps prevent soggy pinwheels and keeps them flaky.
- Not letting puff pastry chill: Allow your rolled pinwheels to chill before baking. Chilling helps maintain shape and flakiness during baking.
- Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking may lead to dryness, while underbaking can make them doughy.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Adjust spices according to your taste. Adding too little or too much can affect the overall flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.
Freezing Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
- Freeze unbaked pinwheels for up to 2 months.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm, but this may soften them.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common inquiries regarding Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels:
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté it until wilted, then chop and squeeze out any excess moisture.
How do I customize my spinach pinwheels?
Feel free to add ingredients like artichokes, feta cheese, or different herbs for extra flavor.
Are these pinwheels suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They make fantastic make-ahead appetizers that can be prepared and stored for later enjoyment.
What dips pair well with Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels?
Pair these pinwheels with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a creamy garlic dip for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels are perfect for any gathering or snack time. With their flaky pastry and creamy filling, they are sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients!
Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings (36 pinwheels) 1x
Description
Spinach Dip in Bite-Sized Pinwheels are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that will steal the show at your next gathering. These flaky, savory pinwheels combine the rich flavors of creamy spinach dip with puff pastry, creating a finger food that is perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual snacking. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, these pinwheels can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without stress. Serve them warm for a delicious treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen chopped spinach (10 oz), thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 block cream cheese (8 oz), softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed but cold
- 1 egg (for brushing)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and drained spinach until smooth.
- Roll out puff pastry into a rectangle and spread the spinach mixture evenly over it, leaving one edge clear.
- Roll tightly like a jelly roll and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Slice the log into half-inch rounds and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 pinwheels (45g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
