If you’re looking for a stress-free appetizer that’s easy to prepare ahead of time, this Taco Pinwheel Recipe is a solid choice. It’s perfect for game day or any gathering where you want a delicious snack that’s packed with flavor and easy to serve.

• Cuisine: Tex-Mex
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
• Servings: Approximately 30 pinwheels

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare these pinwheels in advance and simply slice before serving.
• Minimal Cooking Required: No stove or oven is necessary, making it perfect for hot days.
• Customizable Flavors: Easily adjust the spiciness or ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Gathering: Great for parties or any social event needing easy finger food.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature, 226 grams): Forms the creamy base of the filling.
• 1 cup Colby Jack cheese (shredded, 113 grams): Adds a mild and melty texture. Substitute with cheddar if preferred.
• 1/2 cup sour cream (113.5 grams): Provides tanginess and smoothness to balance the cheeses.
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Infuses the filling with classic Tex-Mex flavors. You can use a homemade blend with cumin and chili powder if needed.
• 2 green onions (diced 1 inch into the green): Adds sharp, fresh flavor and a bit of crunch.
• 1/2 cup black olives (sliced, 67.5 grams): Offers a salty bite and complements the other ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños (diced): Provides a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your heat preference.
• 5 flour tortillas (10 inch): Encases the filling, creating easy-to-slice rolls. Swap with whole wheat for a different texture.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, use a hand-held mixer to beat the cream cheese, Colby Jack cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning until the mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth. This ensures a creamy texture without chunks.

Step 2: Mix in Vegetables

Stir in the green onions, black olives, and pickled jalapeños. These ingredients should be evenly distributed to ensure each pinwheel has consistent flavor and texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small border to prevent overflow. Roll up each tortilla tightly and wrap it securely in plastic wrap. This helps the rolls stay compact as they chill.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set. You can refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Remove the plastic wrap. Slice each roll-up in half first, then continue slicing into one-inch thick pinwheels. Discard the uneven ends for uniform pinwheels that are ready for serving.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these pinwheels spicier?

Yes, simply add more jalapeños or include a bit of hot sauce in the cream cheese mixture to increase the heat level.

What can I use instead of flour tortillas?

You can substitute flour tortillas with whole wheat or even spinach tortillas for a different flavor and texture profile while maintaining the structure needed for rolling.

How should I store leftover pinwheels?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pinwheels might become slightly softer, so it’s best to enjoy them sooner rather than later.