Spinach Feta Pinwheels are the kind of snack that looks fancy enough to impress guests but is sneaky-simple to make. Picture this: buttery puff pastry rolled around a creamy, tangy filling of spinach and feta, baked until golden, and sliced into bite-sized spirals. They’re flaky, cheesy, and just the right balance of savory and fresh, making them perfect for parties, family snacks, or even a quick lunch. With easy ingredients and a beginner-friendly approach, Spinach Feta Pinwheels prove that deliciousness doesn’t have to be complicated—and that appetizer envy is totally a thing.
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Why this appetizer is both easy and impressive
Despite looking like a bakery-worthy treat, Spinach Feta Pinwheels are beginner-friendly. The filling comes together in minutes, and puff pastry does most of the “hard work,” puffing up perfectly in the oven. With minimal prep, you get a golden, cheesy, savory snack that seems like it took hours to make. Their versatility adds to the charm—they pair beautifully with soups, salads, or even as part of a brunch spread. Because each pinwheel is bite-sized, they’re ideal for sharing and make gatherings feel a bit more special. This is why Spinach Feta Pinwheels are both a cozy family favorite and a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients for Spinach Feta Pinwheels (Simple Pantry-Friendly List)
| Ingredient | US Measurement | Purpose in Spinach Feta Pinwheels |
|---|---|---|
| Puff pastry sheets | 2 (8 oz each), thawed | Crispy, flaky base for the pinwheels |
| Fresh spinach | 5 cups, chopped | Main filling, mild and earthy |
| Feta cheese | 1 cup, crumbled | Tangy, creamy flavor |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz, softened | Helps bind the filling |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Adds savory depth |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | Enhances overall flavor |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Keeps filling moist |
| Egg | 1, beaten | For brushing pastry and golden finish |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Flavor balance |
Optional swaps and dietary-friendly alternatives
Spinach Feta Pinwheels are flexible. Use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available—just thaw and drain it well. For a lighter version, swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese. You can also mix in herbs like dill or parsley for extra freshness. These small swaps keep the pinwheels approachable and beginner-friendly while maintaining that classic, flaky texture.
Step-by-Step Spinach Feta Pinwheels Method
Step 1: Preparing the spinach and feta filling
Start by washing and chopping fresh spinach (or thawing and draining frozen spinach). Heat a small pan with a teaspoon of olive oil and briefly sauté the spinach just until wilted. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach with crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. This filling is the heart of your Spinach Feta Pinwheels, so taste and adjust seasoning as needed—it should be flavorful but not overpowering. The creamy texture helps the filling stick to the puff pastry while baking.
Step 2: Rolling and assembling the pinwheels
On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets. Spread the spinach-feta mixture evenly over each sheet, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the pastry from one side to the other into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch pinwheels. Place the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish that makes the pinwheels look irresistible.
Step 3: Baking to golden perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pinwheels for 15–20 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent over-browning. Once baked, let the Spinach Feta Pinwheels cool for a few minutes before serving—they firm up slightly while staying soft and flaky inside. Serve warm for the best flavor, and watch how fast they disappear at the table.
Variations on Spinach Feta Pinwheels
Add-ins for extra flavor
Spinach Feta Pinwheels are easy to customize for extra taste. You can mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy twist or add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives also brighten the filling and give each bite a pop of freshness. For a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the mixture. These simple tweaks make your Spinach Feta Pinwheels feel unique while keeping the base recipe easy and approachable.
Vegetarian or light versions
Spinach Feta Pinwheels are naturally vegetarian, but you can make them lighter by swapping cream cheese for Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream cheese alternative. For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat feta and roll the filling in whole wheat or multigrain puff pastry. Even with these swaps, the pinwheels remain creamy, flaky, and satisfying. These variations make Spinach Feta Pinwheels adaptable for different diets, meal occasions, or simply when you want a lighter, healthier appetizer without losing any of the delicious flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Appetizer platter ideas
Spinach Feta Pinwheels shine as part of a larger appetizer spread. Pair them with fresh veggie sticks, olives, and hummus for a colorful and balanced platter. Cheese cubes or a small charcuterie selection with turkey or chicken-based meats complement the pinwheels’ flaky, savory flavor. Because each pinwheel is bite-sized, they’re perfect for grazing and make parties or family gatherings feel effortless and elegant.
Party or family meal presentation tips
Serve Spinach Feta Pinwheels warm for the best texture and flavor. Arrange them in a circular pattern on a serving plate or stagger them on a wooden board for visual appeal. Sprinkle lightly with fresh herbs or a pinch of paprika for color. They also pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or light pasta dishes as a side or starter. These simple presentation tips make Spinach Feta Pinwheels look impressive while keeping them easy to serve for casual meals or special occasions.
FAQs About Spinach Feta Pinwheels
Can I use frozen spinach for Spinach Feta Pinwheels?
Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water to prevent soggy pinwheels.
Can I make Spinach Feta Pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble them and store in the fridge for a few hours before baking, or freeze unbaked pinwheels for later use.
How long do Spinach Feta Pinwheels last?
Baked pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crisp.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes. Use plant-based cream cheese and feta alternatives. The spinach still keeps them flavorful and satisfying.
What’s the best way to serve Spinach Feta Pinwheels?
Serve warm as appetizers, with soups, salads, or as part of a brunch or snack platter. They’re versatile and perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
Spinach Feta Pinwheels are proof that simple ingredients can create impressive, crowd-pleasing appetizers. With buttery puff pastry, creamy spinach and feta filling, and endless variations, they work for parties, family snacks, or even a quick lunch. Because they are easy to assemble and bake, even beginners can achieve a golden, flaky result. Make-ahead and freezer-friendly options make them practical for busy schedules, while add-ins and herbs allow you to customize flavor. Spinach Feta Pinwheels are versatile, flavorful, and always a hit at the table.
Print
Spinach Feta Pinwheels
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 12–16 pinwheels 1x
Description
Spinach Feta Pinwheels combine buttery puff pastry with creamy spinach and feta for a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties, snacks, or brunch.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 5 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 beaten egg (for brushing)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted. Mix with feta, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread filling on puff pastry sheets, roll into logs, and slice into 1-inch pinwheels. Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.
Notes
- Pinwheels can be made ahead, refrigerated, or frozen before baking. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins