Spinach Feta Pinwheels – Easy & Cheesy Appetizer

When it comes to easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers, these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels are absolute showstoppers. Whether you’re hosting a casual family brunch, a cozy dinner party, or just need something quick and impressive to bring to a potluck, this recipe is about to become your new go-to. Think of it as the perfect marriage of creamy, cheesy goodness and buttery, flaky pastry, all rolled up into delightful bite-sized pieces that practically vanish the moment you put them on the table.

I first stumbled upon this idea when I was looking for something simple yet satisfying to serve as a snack for unexpected guests. You know that slight panic when you realize you’ve got nothing fancy prepared but still want to impress? These pinwheels saved the day. All I had to do was grab a sheet of puff pastry from the freezer, toss together some basic ingredients like spinach, feta, and mozzarella, and roll them up like little bundles of joy. After a quick stint in the oven, I was left with golden-brown, melty, crispy treats that had everyone asking for the recipe.

What makes these pinwheels even more magical is their versatility. They’re just as perfect for holiday parties as they are for lazy Sunday brunches. And the best part? You can prepare them ahead of time and bake them right before serving. So, no stress, just pure, cheesy deliciousness.

If you’re like me and love recipes that deliver big on flavor with minimal effort, you’re in the right place. Trust me, once you try these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels, you’ll be making them on repeat. And the best part is, they’re super customizable, so you can get creative with different fillings if you like. But for now, let’s focus on the classic combo of spinach and feta because, well, it’s a classic for a reason.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels are bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. From their rich flavor to their beautiful presentation, they check all the boxes for a perfect appetizer.

Easy to Make: You only need a handful of ingredients to pull off these impressive-looking pinwheels. Using store-bought puff pastry makes the process a breeze, while the filling is a simple mix of fresh spinach, feta cheese, mozzarella, garlic, and some seasonings. All you do is mix, roll, slice, and bake. It really doesn’t get much easier than that.

Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of salty, tangy feta cheese with creamy mozzarella creates a beautifully balanced filling. The fresh spinach adds a lovely earthy note, while the garlic provides just the right hint of aromatic warmth. All of this gets wrapped up in flaky, buttery pastry that’s as addictive as it sounds.

Visually Stunning: When you pull these pinwheels out of the oven, they look like something straight out of a fancy bakery. The golden-brown swirls with cheesy spinach peeking through make them almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering, serving them as a side dish with soup, or just enjoying them as a snack, they always feel special. Plus, you can double or even triple the batch if you’re feeding a crowd.

Customizable: While the spinach and feta combo is a classic, you can totally experiment with different fillings. Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers for an extra flavor kick.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the pinwheels in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. They also freeze beautifully, making them a perfect option for last-minute entertaining.

Health Benefits

While these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels are certainly an indulgence, they do offer some surprising health benefits, particularly from the spinach and cheese filling.

Rich in Nutrients: Spinach is a superfood that’s loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. It’s an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and folate. These nutrients help support everything from immune function and bone health to skin radiance and energy levels.

Protein Boost: The combination of feta and mozzarella cheese offers a good dose of protein, which helps keep you feeling fuller for longer. Protein is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall bodily functions.

Good Fats: Feta cheese, in particular, is lower in fat than many other cheeses and provides a nice balance of calcium and protein. Plus, it offers beneficial fats that help keep you satisfied.

Iron and Calcium: Spinach is known for its high iron content, which is crucial for oxygen transport and energy production. Combined with the calcium in the cheese, these pinwheels are a great way to sneak some vital nutrients into your diet.

Antioxidants: Spinach is rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health and protect against oxidative stress. Garlic, if you choose to add it, also provides antioxidants that can support heart health and boost immunity.

Portion Control: The beauty of these pinwheels is that they’re naturally portion-controlled. You can enjoy one or two pieces as a tasty snack or appetizer without feeling overly indulgent.

Gluten-Free Option: While puff pastry typically contains gluten, there are gluten-free puff pastry options available for those who have dietary restrictions. This allows everyone to enjoy these delightful bites.

While these pinwheels are best enjoyed as a treat, it’s nice to know that there’s some nutritional value packed into every cheesy, flaky bite. Now, let’s get down to the practical details of making these beauties.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this recipe is that it comes together so quickly, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining or a spontaneous snack attack. Here’s what you need to know:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 30–33 minutes
Servings: Makes approximately 12–15 pinwheels, depending on how thick you slice them.
Calories per serving: Approximately 120 calories per pinwheel (this may vary depending on the specific brands of puff pastry and cheeses used).

Key Nutritional Information (per serving):
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Calcium: 90mg
Iron: 0.8mg

These nutritional estimates give you a good idea of what you’re indulging in. While not a health food per se, these pinwheels offer a nice balance of nutrients, especially when enjoyed in moderation.

Ingredients List

Puff Pastry: 1 sheet, thawed (from a 17.3 oz package) – Puff pastry is the foundation of this recipe, providing that irresistibly flaky, golden crust. Store-bought puff pastry works beautifully, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can absolutely make your own. Just make sure it’s thawed properly before you start working with it.

Fresh Spinach: 1 cup, chopped – Spinach adds freshness, color, and a mild earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheeses. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the filling.

Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled – Feta is the star of the show when it comes to flavor. Its salty, tangy goodness provides the perfect contrast to the creamy mozzarella. Try to use high-quality feta for the best results.

Mozzarella Cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded – Mozzarella adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together. Plus, who can resist the ooey-gooey texture it provides when melted?

Garlic: 1 clove, minced (optional) – This little addition makes a big difference. It adds extra flavor and warmth to the filling.

Salt and Pepper: To taste – A pinch of salt and pepper helps enhance all the flavors in the filling. Be mindful of the saltiness of the feta cheese when seasoning.

Egg: 1, beaten – This is for the egg wash, which gives the pinwheels that beautiful golden-brown finish. It also helps the pastry layers bake up crisp and perfectly flaky.

These simple, accessible ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering snack that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Ready to start cooking? Let’s go!

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now comes the fun part! This recipe is super simple, but I’ll walk you through each step to make sure you end up with the most delicious, golden-brown, and cheesy Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels imaginable.

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pinwheels from sticking and to make cleanup easier. Preheating the oven is crucial because you want that initial blast of heat to help the puff pastry rise properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and minced garlic (if using). Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, but remember, feta is naturally salty, so go easy on the salt.

Using a fork or spoon, mix everything together until well combined. You want the ingredients to be evenly distributed so every bite of your pinwheels is packed with flavor.

Tip: If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed and thoroughly drained. Excess moisture will make your pastry soggy and prevent it from baking up crispy. To drain the spinach properly, press it between layers of paper towels or squeeze it out in a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry

Unroll your thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. If it feels a bit sticky, sprinkle a bit of flour on top as well to make it easier to work with.

Using a rolling pin, gently roll out the pastry to smooth out any creases and to make it just slightly thinner. You don’t want to overwork the dough, so be gentle. The size should be approximately 10×12 inches.

Tip: Make sure your pastry remains cold while you work with it. If it starts to feel too soft or warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes to firm it up. This will ensure you get that lovely puff when it bakes.

Step 4: Spread the Filling

Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges. This border allows you to seal the pastry properly when you roll it up, preventing the filling from oozing out during baking.

Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to spread the mixture out evenly, making sure it reaches all the way to the edges (except for the border). The more even your filling is, the prettier and more uniform your pinwheels will be.

Step 5: Roll the Pastry into a Log

Starting from one of the longer sides, gently roll the pastry up into a tight log. Try to keep it as even as possible as you roll, making sure the filling stays in place. Don’t press down too hard, but do keep it firm enough so the filling doesn’t fall out.

Once rolled, place the log seam-side down on your work surface to help keep it intact.

Tip: If you find the pastry is too soft to slice cleanly, place the rolled log in the refrigerator for about 10–15 minutes. This helps firm it up, making slicing much easier.

Step 6: Slice the Pinwheels

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into approximately 1/2-inch thick rounds. You should end up with about 12–15 pinwheels, depending on how thick you slice them.

As you cut, try to make smooth, even slices to avoid squishing the pinwheels. A serrated knife can work particularly well here.

Tip: Wipe the knife clean between slices to keep your cuts neat and prevent the pastry from tearing.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Carefully place each pinwheel onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between them. They will puff up and expand as they bake, so make sure they have enough room.

Tip: If your pinwheels start to unravel, gently press them down and reshape them before baking.

Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash

Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the top and sides of each pinwheel with the beaten egg. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown, glossy finish that makes them look as irresistible as they taste.

Tip: If you want an extra-crispy crust, sprinkle a tiny bit of sea salt or sesame seeds on top before baking.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and puffed. The edges should be crispy, while the inside remains soft, melty, and packed with flavor.

Tip: Every oven is slightly different, so start checking on your pinwheels at the 15-minute mark. You want them beautifully browned, but not overly dark.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them set up a bit before serving and makes them easier to handle.

Transfer the pinwheels to a serving platter and watch them disappear! They’re best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature.

Tip: If you’re making these for a party, consider doubling the recipe. They’ll be gone before you know it!

Alright, now that your gorgeous, golden-brown Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels are out of the oven and ready to devour, let’s talk about the best ways to serve and pair them with other dishes.

How to Serve

These pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to make the most of them:

As an Appetizer: Arrange them on a beautiful serving platter with a small dipping bowl of marinara or tzatziki sauce on the side. They’re also perfect for game day spreads, brunch buffets, or holiday parties.
With Soup or Salad: Serve these alongside a creamy tomato soup or a fresh, crisp salad for a well-rounded meal. They add just the right amount of buttery richness to a lighter dish.
Party Platter Addition: Pair them with a charcuterie board featuring olives, hummus, roasted red peppers, and sliced veggies for an impressive spread.
Brunch Delight: These pinwheels are excellent as part of a brunch spread with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and breakfast sausages.

In the next section, we’ll discuss some of the best pairings to elevate your Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels experience even more. Ready to take them to the next level? Let’s do it!

Pairing Suggestions

These Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels are pretty amazing on their own, but when paired with the right accompaniments, they can be taken to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a party spread, here are some of the best pairings to consider:

Savory Dips: While the pinwheels are delicious as they are, pairing them with a creamy dip can elevate the flavor even more. Tzatziki, made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs, is a natural match that complements the feta and spinach beautifully. Hummus also works well, especially if you want to keep things vegetarian-friendly.

Salads: Serve these pinwheels with a fresh, crisp salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. A Mediterranean-inspired salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onions, and a lemon-olive oil dressing pairs wonderfully. Arugula or mixed greens tossed with a simple vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast.

Soups: Warm, flaky pinwheels dipped into a bowl of soup? Yes, please! Try pairing them with creamy tomato soup, roasted red pepper soup, or even a hearty lentil and vegetable soup for a comforting combination.

Charcuterie Boards: If you’re serving these pinwheels as part of a larger spread, consider adding them to a charcuterie board with cured meats, cheeses, nuts, olives, and fresh fruits. They fit right in and add a delightful cheesy, flaky element.

Breakfast Spread: These pinwheels make a fantastic addition to a brunch table. Pair them with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit salad, or even smoked salmon for a gourmet breakfast experience.

Beverage Pairings: While alcohol isn’t included in this recipe, you can still enjoy your pinwheels with refreshing drinks like mint lemonade, sparkling water infused with citrus, or even a chilled cucumber and mint smoothie.

Now that you have your pairings sorted, let’s talk about how to properly store, freeze, and reheat your pinwheels to enjoy them at their best.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about these Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels is that they’re easy to store and reheat, making them perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests. Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh and delicious:

Storing in the Fridge:
If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence, but it happens), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their flakiness, place a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture.

Reheating from the Fridge:
To reheat, simply place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and warm them up in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the pastry soggy.

Freezing Unbaked Pinwheels:
If you want to prepare the pinwheels ahead of time and bake them later, you can easily freeze them before baking. Simply slice the log into individual pinwheels and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flash-freeze them by placing the entire tray in the freezer for about 1–2 hours, or until the pinwheels are firm.

Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop them straight into the preheated oven and bake for an extra 3–5 minutes beyond the original baking time.

Freezing Baked Pinwheels:
If you have already baked the pinwheels and want to freeze them, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month.

Reheating from Frozen:
To reheat frozen, already-baked pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12–15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps them regain their crispiness.

Now that you know how to store and reheat them like a pro, let’s move on to common mistakes you should avoid when making these delightful appetizers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, a few mistakes can prevent you from achieving the perfect Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Here’s what to watch out for:

Using Wet Spinach:
If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and thoroughly drained. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. If your spinach is too wet, it will make the pastry soggy and prevent it from getting that beautiful flaky texture.

Overloading the Pastry:
While it’s tempting to pile on the filling, using too much can make it difficult to roll the pastry and can cause it to burst open while baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.

Not Keeping the Pastry Cold:
Puff pastry works best when it’s kept cold. If it becomes too warm while you’re working with it, the butter within the dough will start to melt, resulting in less puff and a denser texture. Keep the pastry in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it, and if it starts to feel soft, chill it again briefly before proceeding.

Skipping the Egg Wash:
The egg wash serves two important purposes: it helps the pastry achieve a lovely golden color, and it acts as a binder to keep the rolled pastry intact. Skipping this step will result in dull-looking, less cohesive pinwheels.

Slicing Unevenly:
When cutting the rolled log into individual pinwheels, uneven slices can cause some pieces to cook faster than others. Try to slice as evenly as possible to ensure uniform baking.

Overbaking:
While you want the pinwheels to be golden and crispy, leaving them in the oven for too long will dry them out. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they’re golden brown and puffed.

Now that you know what to avoid, let’s look at some pro tips to make sure your Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels turn out perfect every time.

Pro Tips

Use High-Quality Feta: Not all feta cheese is created equal. For the best flavor, opt for a good-quality block of feta that you crumble yourself rather than pre-crumbled versions. The texture and taste will be much better.

Chill the Pastry Log Before Slicing: After rolling the pastry into a log, place it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This firms up the pastry and makes it much easier to cut cleanly.

Customize the Filling: Feel free to add extras like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, or even some cooked and crumbled turkey bacon if you want a meaty touch. The possibilities are endless!

Double the Recipe: If you’re making these for a party, consider doubling or even tripling the recipe. They disappear fast!

Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Even with a straightforward recipe like this one, a few common questions tend to pop up. Let’s make sure you have all the information you need to make the best Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels ever.

Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh Spinach?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen spinach works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure you thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing it with the cheese. Excess moisture will make your pinwheels soggy, so don’t skip this step.

Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You have a couple of options:

1. Prepare and Refrigerate: You can prepare the pinwheels up to the slicing stage and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply brush them with egg wash and pop them in the oven.
2. Freeze Before Baking: Slice the pinwheels and freeze them unbaked. When you want to serve them, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I Use Puff Pastry Sheets That Are Not Pre-Rolled?
Yes, you can. If your puff pastry comes in a block instead of pre-rolled sheets, simply roll it out on a lightly floured surface to the desired thickness (about 1/8 inch thick). Just make sure it’s even and not too thick, as this could affect the baking time.

How Do I Prevent the Pinwheels From Unrolling While Baking?
Make sure to roll the pastry tightly when forming the log. If the pastry feels too warm and soft, chill the rolled log for about 10–15 minutes before slicing. Also, brushing the edges with egg wash before rolling helps to seal the pastry better.

Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?
Definitely! While the classic combination of spinach and feta is fantastic, feel free to get creative. Some delicious additions include:

• Sun-dried tomatoes for a slightly sweet, tangy flavor.
• Chopped olives for a briny, Mediterranean twist.
• Roasted red peppers for extra sweetness and color.
• Cooked and crumbled turkey bacon for added smokiness.

How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
If you need a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free puff pastry sheets, which are available at most specialty grocery stores. Prepare the recipe as instructed, and you’ll still get a delicious, flaky result.

Can I Make These Pinwheels Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the feta and mozzarella cheese with dairy-free alternatives. There are several vegan cheese brands available that melt well and offer great flavor.

Can I Reheat the Pinwheels in the Microwave?
It’s not recommended. While you technically can reheat them in the microwave, they’ll lose their crispiness and turn soft. For best results, reheat them in the oven or an air fryer to restore their flaky texture.

What Should I Do If My Puff Pastry Becomes Too Warm While Working With It?
If your puff pastry feels too soft or sticky, simply place it back in the refrigerator for about 10–15 minutes to firm up. Working with cold pastry ensures you get the perfect puff and flakiness when baked.

How Long Can I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes to bring back their crispiness.

You’re now fully equipped with all the knowledge you need to make these scrumptious Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels! Let’s wrap things up.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There you have it—your new favorite appetizer recipe that’s sure to impress everyone who tries it. These Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels are the perfect combination of rich, creamy, cheesy filling and beautifully golden, flaky pastry. They’re incredibly easy to make, yet they look and taste like something you’d find at a fancy bakery.

Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, brunch, potluck, or even just as a quick snack to enjoy on a lazy afternoon, these pinwheels will not disappoint. And the best part? They’re totally customizable. Whether you add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers, or keep them classic, you’re guaranteed delicious results every time.

Now that you know how to make them, it’s your turn to give this recipe a try. Head to your kitchen, gather those simple ingredients, and get ready to experience the joy of biting into a warm, cheesy, flaky pinwheel that’s pure comfort food.

I’d love to hear how your Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Pinwheels turn out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts, any creative additions you made to the filling, or tips you discovered along the way. And if you share your delicious creations on social media, be sure to tag me—I can’t wait to see your masterpieces!

Happy baking, and enjoy every scrumptious bite!

Print