π§π Cream Cheese Pinwheels: A Delicious Delight! π§π
Cream Cheese Pinwheels, also known as cream cheese roll-ups or pinwheel appetizers, are delightful and easy-to-make snacks that are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a tasty treat. These bite-sized wonders are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a crowd-pleaser at any event.
π History:
The history of Cream Cheese Pinwheels is a bit elusive, but they likely evolved from various rolled appetizer recipes popularized in the mid-20th century. Cream cheese itself has a long history, dating back to the early 18th century, and it has been a staple in American cuisine for decades.
π½οΈ Components:
To make Cream Cheese Pinwheels, you’ll need the following components:
Ingredients:
- 1 package of refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry sheets
- 8 oz (1 block) of cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup finely shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or chives
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped black olives (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, etc.)
π©βπ³ Preparation Steps:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the crescent roll dough package (usually around 350Β°F or 180Β°C).
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Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, red bell pepper, black olives (if using), and seasonings. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
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Roll Out Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface. If you’re using puff pastry sheets, you can roll them out to a rectangle.
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Spread the Filling: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
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Roll It Up: Carefully roll up the dough from one end to the other, creating a log or cylinder shape.
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Chill: Place the roll in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to firm it up. This makes it easier to slice.
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Slice and Arrange: Remove the chilled roll from the fridge and slice it into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
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Serve: Allow them to cool for a few minutes, and then serve your Cream Cheese Pinwheels. You can garnish them with additional chopped green onions or other herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
β° Time Needed:
- Preparation: Approximately 20 minutes
- Chilling: 15-20 minutes
- Baking: 12-15 minutes
- Total time: About 47-55 minutes
Enjoy your Cream Cheese Pinwheels! π§π They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Cream Cheese Pinwheels:
π₯¦ Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving, based on a typical recipe, may vary depending on specific ingredients used):
- Calories: Around 90-120 calories per pinwheel
- Total Fat: 7-9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
- Cholesterol: 15-20 milligrams
- Sodium: 130-180 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Sugars: 1-2 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
These values are rough estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
π₯ Health Information:
- Cream Cheese Pinwheels are delicious but should be consumed in moderation, as they tend to be high in saturated fat and calories.
- To make a healthier version, consider using reduced-fat or Greek yogurt cream cheese, and whole-grain dough if available. You can also load up on veggies in the filling to add fiber and nutrients.
- Portion control is key. It’s easy to overindulge in these tasty treats, so be mindful of your serving size.
- Cream cheese, while delicious, is also high in saturated fat and cholesterol, so if you have specific dietary restrictions or concerns, consider alternatives like goat cheese, hummus, or a bean-based spread.
As with any dish, Cream Cheese Pinwheels can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, but it’s important to be aware of their nutritional content, especially if you’re watching your calorie or fat intake.
