If you’re searching for a snack that’s utterly irresistible, crowd-pleasing, and packed with layers of delightful flavors, then this Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe is about to become your new go-to. These little rolled-up bites are bursting with creamy cheese, vibrant peppers, and just the right touch of seasoning that comes together in the most comforting, crispy-edged way. Perfect for parties, after-school treats, or whenever you’re craving something warm and cheesy with a Tex-Mex twist, these pinwheels are simplicity and deliciousness rolled into one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect flavor, texture, and color to your Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe. From the creamy base to the crunchy veggies and the melty cheese, every component is essential.
- 4 large flour tortillas: The perfect canvas to hold all the flavors while baking up crisp and golden.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a rich, creamy texture that bonds all the ingredients together.
- ½ cup sour cream: Brings a slight tang and helps keep the filling smooth and luscious.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, subtle depth of flavor without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle savory note to enhance the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives a hint of earthy herbiness that brightens the filling.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or taco seasoning: Adds a kick of spice for that classic Tex-Mex flair.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and delivers gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite.
- ½ cup diced green bell pepper: Offers crunch and vibrant color to keep things fresh and exciting.
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a lovely pop of red hue for visual appeal.
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions: Injects a subtle sharpness and freshness to brighten the flavors.
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional): For those who love a little heat, this brings an exciting spicy zing.
- Salsa or ranch for dipping: Complements the pinwheels with a cooling or zesty dip to finish.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Creamy Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking those irresistible pinwheels. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until perfectly smooth. Then add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, chili powder, and salt, mixing everything to create a deliciously spiced creamy base. This step is where the magic begins, as these flavors mingle to create the heart of your Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe.
Step 2: Mix in the Cheese and Veggies
Now comes the colorful and hearty part. Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese along with the diced green and red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and jalapeño if you’re going for a little extra kick. This mixture should be thick, spreadable, and wonderfully vibrant, promising a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy bites with crunchy vegetables in every pinwheel slice.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread a generous, even layer of your cheesy filling onto each tortilla. Take your time here to make sure the filling covers the surface but isn’t too thick to roll. Then, roll the tortillas up tightly and slice each into approximately 1-inch pinwheels. Laying them flat side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet will help them hold their shape while baking and get that golden edge we all love.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the pinwheels are heated through, the cheese is beautifully melted, and the edges turn that inviting golden-brown color. Once out, let them cool just a bit for about 5 minutes—this rest time helps them set up so each bite holds together perfectly.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a few chopped green onions on top can add a fresh pop of color and an uplifting herbal note that makes these pinwheels feel even more special. Plus, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce amps up the flavor experience.
Side Dishes
Pair your pinwheels with classic Tex-Mex sides like guacamole, a fresh pico de gallo, or a crunchy side salad for a well-rounded snack or light meal. They’re also fantastic alongside chips and salsa for an irresistible party spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these pinwheels stacked like mini towers on a decorative platter or thread a few onto skewers for easy grab-and-go appeal. They also shine packed in lunchboxes or picnic baskets, turning a simple snack into a crowd-pleasing event.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy their cheesy goodness even after the initial bake.
Freezing
These pinwheels freeze beautifully before baking. Lay the rolled and sliced pinwheels flat on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pinwheels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes to bring back their crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the tortillas can get soggy. Reheating this way keeps them tasting almost as good as freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar provides great meltiness and flavor, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend for various cheesy profiles that still work wonderfully.
Is there a way to make these pinwheels vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based versions, and choose a vegan shredded cheese alternative. Just keep an eye on seasoning to maintain that delicious balance.
Can I add meat to the filling?
Definitely! Cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, or seasoned ground beef can all be folded into the filling for extra protein and heartiness, turning the pinwheels into a more substantial snack or appetizer.
Are these pinwheels suitable for freezing before or after baking?
They can be frozen before baking for convenience and baked fresh later, which keeps them tasting better. Freezing after baking works too, but reheating from frozen baked pinwheels can sometimes yield a less crispy texture.
What dipping sauces go best with this Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe?
Salsa and ranch are classic pairings. You can also serve them with guacamole, sour cream, or even a spicy chipotle mayo to add a creamy or smoky contrast that complements the filling beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe is such a gem—comforting, colorful, and bursting with flavor that really brings people together. Whether you’re making them for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a fun family treat, they’re sure to become a favorite on your recipe list. I can’t wait for you to try them and share the joy these pinwheels bring to your gatherings and everyday moments!
Print
Cheesy Baked Tortilla Pinwheels Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Antojitos are a delicious Mexican-inspired appetizer featuring rolled flour tortillas filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture seasoned with garlic, onion, oregano, and chili powder. These bite-sized tortilla pinwheels are baked until golden and served warm with salsa or ranch for dipping, making them perfect for snacks, parties, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced green bell pepper
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
Tortillas
- 4 large flour tortillas
For Serving
- Salsa or ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the antojitos.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, chili powder or taco seasoning, and salt; mix well to combine.
- Add Vegetables and Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced green and red bell peppers, finely chopped green onions, and jalapeño if using, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Rolls: Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each flour tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape.
- Slice Pinwheels: Slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch-wide pinwheels and place them flat-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the pinwheels are heated through and the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm with salsa, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Antojitos can be made ahead of time, refrigerated, and then baked when ready to serve.
- For extra flavor and protein, try using flavored tortillas or adding cooked chicken or bacon to the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Canadian (Tex-Mex fusion)
