Herbed Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Introduction
Herbed Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful, fresh appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings. These colorful, flavorful bites combine creamy cheese and vibrant herbs wrapped in soft tortillas for a simple yet impressive treat.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese, 16 ounces (two blocks), softened to room temperature
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt, 1/4 cup
- Fresh Chives, 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Fresh Parsley, 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Fresh Dill, 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
- Red Bell Pepper, 1/2 cup, very finely diced
- Green Onions, 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
- Garlic Powder, 1 teaspoon
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper, 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Large Flour Tortillas, 5-6 (10-inch “burrito size”)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium to large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a hand mixer or spatula. Add sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chives, parsley, dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until herbs and seasonings are evenly combined. Gently fold in red bell pepper and green onions.
- Step 2: Lay one flour tortilla flat. Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the tortilla, leaving a half-inch border along one edge. Aim for about 1/4-inch thickness to avoid overfilling.
- Step 3: Roll the tortilla tightly starting opposite the empty border, sealing the edge to form a log. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 or overnight, to firm up the filling.
- Step 4: Remove logs from the fridge and unwrap. Trim uneven ends then slice into 1/2 to 3/4-inch rounds using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean if filling sticks. Arrange pinwheels on a serving platter and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Try adding finely chopped smoked salmon or cooked bacon for extra flavor.
- Use spinach or sun-dried tomato tortillas to vary color and taste.
- Make sure to chill the rolls thoroughly to get clean, neat slices.
Storage
Store leftover pinwheels wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best served chilled but can be brought to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, making the pinwheels a day ahead is ideal because the chilling time helps the filling set, making slicing easier and results neater.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can try using a soft goat cheese or ricotta blended with a bit of sour cream for a different twist, but cream cheese provides the best texture for this recipe.
PrintHerbed Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Herbed Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful and visually appealing appetizer featuring a creamy blend of fresh herbs and creamy cheese spread over soft flour tortillas, rolled tightly, chilled, and sliced into bite-sized rounds. Perfect for parties, snacks, or light lunches, these pinwheels combine fresh parsley, dill, chives, and crisp bell peppers for a refreshing burst of flavor in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: About 30 pinwheels (5-6 tortillas)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Mixture
- Cream Cheese – 16 ounces (two blocks), softened to room temperature
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – 1/4 cup
- Fresh Chives – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Fresh Dill – 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
- Red Bell Pepper – 1/2 cup, very finely diced
- Green Onions – 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
Assembly
- Large Flour Tortillas – 5 to 6, 10-inch burrito size
Instructions
- Prepare the Herbed Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium to large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, beating until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or spatula. Mix in sour cream (or Greek yogurt), finely chopped chives, parsley, dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly distributed. Gently fold in the diced red bell pepper and sliced green onions without overmixing to keep the mixture from becoming watery. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Pinwheels: Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin, even layer (about 1/4 inch thick) of the cream cheese mixture over the entire tortilla, leaving a half-inch border along one edge free of filling to help seal the roll. Avoid overfilling to prevent oozing during slicing.
- Roll and Chill for Best Results: Starting from the edge opposite the empty border, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape, ensuring it is firm to avoid gaps. Place the seam side down and wrap each log tightly with plastic wrap, twisting the ends to secure. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 hours or overnight, to allow the filling to firm up for clean slicing.
- Slice and Serve: After chilling, unwrap the logs and place on a cutting board. Discard uneven ends by slicing them off to ensure clean edges. Slice the logs into uniform rounds about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts if the filling sticks. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and serve immediately or chilled.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not skip the chilling step; it is essential for firm pinwheels that slice cleanly.
- Use a sharp, thin-bladed or serrated knife for slicing to prevent filling from sticking.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce calories slightly.
- Try adding other fresh herbs like basil or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
- The pinwheels are best served within 24 hours of making for freshness.
Keywords: herbed cream cheese pinwheels, cream cheese appetizers, party appetizer, no cook recipe, finger food, herb spread, easy snacks
