If you’re looking for a delicious and savory treat that brings just the right amount of spice to your next family gathering or Game Day event, Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels are exactly what you need. Combining the smoky richness of bacon, the sharpness of cheddar, and the zesty kick of jalapeños, these appetizers are incredibly easy to make. The buttery and flaky crescent rolls provide the perfect base, wrapping all the flavors in a delicate crust. Whether you’re using a smoker or prefer them baked in the oven, these pinwheels are a hit at any gathering. The Midwest knows how to do comfort food, and this dish is no exception!
What makes these Pinwheels even more appealing is how simple they are to whip up. Start with refrigerated crescent rolls, spread a layer of cream cheese, sprinkle in some cheddar, and fold in crispy bacon and diced jalapeños. The flavors blend perfectly, almost like a bite-sized Jalapeno Popper, but wrapped in that irresistibly flaky crescent dough. These tasty bites can be served alongside other game-day favorites like Crispy Baked Chicken Wings, Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites, or even some Fried Ravioli. Whether you’re hosting a big party or just want something special to serve at home, these pinwheels are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels
One of my favorite snacks has to be these Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels. The combination of bacon, jalapeno, and cheddar is simply delicious. What makes them even better is how easy they are to make. You just spread cream cheese over Pillsbury crescent roll dough or even pizza dough, and then everything is rolled into perfect little pinwheels. They remind me of a classic jalapeno popper, but with a fun twist in a flaky dough that everyone loves.
Can you make pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare these appetizer delights in advance! Simply prep and spread the delicious filling over the sheet of dough and then roll it up tightly, securing each roll in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, just slice the rolls and follow the recipe directions to bake them to perfection. This method makes it easy to enjoy freshly baked pinwheels without the rush, as everything is ready in advance for a quick bake when needed.
Ingredients
Making Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels is easier than you think and full of flavors that pop! Start with 8 oz of cream cheese, which you should let soften for easy mixing. To this, stir in 1/4 cup of diced pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick. Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to bring a rich, sharp taste.
Crisp up 6 strips of bacon and chop them into small pieces, which you will fold into the mix to create a smoky flavor, reminiscent of weekend cookouts. Roll out 1 tube of crescent roll dough, spread the cheese mixture evenly, and roll it back up to form pinwheels. I remember the first time I made these; I was amazed at how something so simple could impress guests so much. The combination of textures and flavors from these ingredients is truly delightful!
Make Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels
To make these delicious Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels, start by letting your cream cheese get softened. Meanwhile, cook bacon until crispy and then, once cooled, get it chopped into tiny bits. Using an oven at 400 degrees on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper, ensures an easy cleanup and perfectly cooked bacon in about 20-25 minutes.
Now, preheat your smoker to 375 degrees or use the oven if preferred. Grab a bowl and combine all of your ingredients: the chopped bacon, softened cream cheese, jalapeños, and shredded cheese until the mixture is well combined. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over rectangular sheets of crescent roll dough, pressing together any seams. Carefully roll the dough and cut it into 16 pieces.
To finish, place the pinwheels on a sheet pan sprayed with cooking spray. Allow them to smoke at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes, or, for a simpler method, you can bake them in the oven for about 15 minutes. While making these, I found that a little squish on each pinwheel helps maintain their shape, giving them that satisfying spiral when served hot and fresh.
Serve Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Pinwheels
When you’re ready to serve these Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels, they’re the perfect appetizer for any family gathering or game day celebration. Once cooked, the jalapeño and cheddar create a nice blend of spicy and creamy flavors, while the bacon adds a savory, crispy touch.
These pinwheels are incredibly easy to make and will be a hit with everyone around the table. Pair them with other favorites like crockpot sausage and Rotel dip, or even serve them alongside meatballs and little smokies for a complete spread. These awesome bites are not only fun to eat but also simple to prepare in large batches for your next event.
Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels
If you’re looking for an easy-to-make dish that’s full of flavor, these Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels are perfect for any party or get together. The combination of cream cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced jalapenos wrapped in a crescent roll blanket makes for the ideal bite-sized appetizer. The freshly shredded cheddar adds a creamy touch, while the buttery, flaky crust enhances the texture. These super simple pinwheels really do taste just like a Jalapeno Popper, making them a crowd-pleaser at any event. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a larger celebration, these pinwheels will leave everyone asking for more.
Prep Time:20 minutes Cook Time:20minutes
Tips and Frequently Asked Questions
Preparing Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels can be a delightful experience when approached with the right tips. If you love a spicy kick, consider using fresh jalapeños, or if you prefer a milder taste, go for pickled ones. For those concerned about heat, removing the seeds can help. To achieve a creamier texture, opt for a block of cheddar cheese and shred it yourself; pre-shredded cheese often lacks the desired melt. The choice of crescent dough makes a difference too—ensure it’s well-rested from the fridge to avoid a soft and sticky outcome during preparation.
As for cooking, whether you choose to bake in the oven or opt for a smoker to infuse a rich smoke flavor, these pinwheels shine when cooked at 375 degrees F for about 15 minutes. If using bacon, you can also create a meat-free version by skipping this ingredient, maintaining all the other flavors. Leftovers can be easily reheated; simply use your oven on low heat to keep them crispy and fresh. With these insights, the recipe becomes flexible and approachable, fitting your taste buds and kitchen preferences seamlessly.
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Ingredients
To make these Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels, follow these steps to bring all the flavors together:
➡️ Start with 8 oz of cream cheese for a smooth, creamy base.
➡️ Add 1/4 cup of diced pickled jalapeños to give a spicy kick 🌶️.
➡️ Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to make it cheesy 🧀.
➡️ Include 6 strips of bacon, chopped and crispy, to add that savory touch.
➡️ Grab a tube of crescent roll dough to wrap everything in a buttery, flaky crust.
With these simple ingredients, you’re ready to create an easy yet delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering! 🎉
Instructions for Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels
Creating these delightful Smoked Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Pinwheels brings fond memories of weekend cooking sessions with family. Follow these steps to make your own batch:
1️⃣ Gather Ingredients: Start by gathering all your favorite ingredients. Let a block of cream cheese soften while you’re prepping the crispy bacon and zesty jalapeños. The aroma while you cook these is simply irresistible. Once done, drain the grease and chop the bacon into small pieces. Preheat your oven or smoker to 375 degrees F for that perfect crispy exterior and melty inside. 🔥🥓
2️⃣ Mix & Spread: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped jalapeños, shredded cheese, and bacon. As you stir, see the colors and flavors beautifully melding, all set to be spread onto the crescent dough. Lay out the dough into rectangular sheets and pinch any seams together. Evenly spread the mixture, then begin to roll from one end tightly. Repeat with each roll of dough. ✨🥄
3️⃣ Bake & Enjoy: Cut the rolls into 16 pieces and place them on your sheet pan. Bake or smoke your pinwheels at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes, checking them at 15 minutes. With a gentle squish, help them shape perfectly on the pan. Expect a crackle and burst of flavors when you bite in. Use a spray to properly coat them. 🚀🧀
Every single moment is worth the delicious, savory outcome. Enjoy every bite! 😋🍴
Nutrition
Calories: 231.2 kcal Carbohydrates: 14.1g Protein: 7.1g Fat: 19.1g Saturated Fat: 9.2g Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.1g Monounsaturated Fat: 4.4g Trans Fat: 1.3g Cholesterol: 35mg