Mexican Pinwheels

by Jessica | April 24, 2013 4:12 pm

Get ready to spice up your appetizer game with these Mexican Pinwheels! Filled with a creamy, zesty mixture wrapped in soft tortillas, these pinwheels are the perfect finger food for any gathering. They’re not just delicious; they’re a fun and colorful way to add some flair to your snack table. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

There’s a certain joy in making something that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat. These Mexican[1] Pinwheels have become my go-to for any occasion that needs a bit of spice and color. The process of mixing the creamy filling, spreading it on the tortillas, and then rolling them up is almost therapeutic. And the best part? The final reveal when you slice them and see the beautiful spirals of flavor-packed filling.

Sharing these at gatherings has always been a delight. The pinwheels spark conversations and bring people together, one delicious bite at a time. Have you ever had a simple dish turn into the star of the show? Let’s create these bite-sized treats together. What’s your favorite party snack that brings joy and flavor to the table? Join me in rolling up some fun with these Mexican Pinwheels!

Servings: 20 people

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Special Equipment

Tortilla Press[2] (optional): If you want to go the extra mile, use a tortilla press to make fresh tortillas for an authentic touch.

Ingredients:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup salsa
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Dash of garlic powder
1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies
1 cup Mexican cheese, finely shredded
8 (10-inch) flour tortillas
Additional salsa for serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Creamy Spiced Filling

Mix for Flavor: In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, taco seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
Add Extras: Stir in the chopped green chilies and shredded Mexican cheese. This will add a delightful texture and a kick of flavor to your filling.

Step 2: Spread and Roll

Prepare Tortillas: Scoop about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the mixture onto each 10-inch tortilla. Spread the mixture evenly to cover the tortilla.
Roll Them Up: Roll each tortilla tightly like a jelly roll. Make sure the seam is on the bottom to keep it from unrolling.

Step 3: Chill and Set

Chill for Firmness: Line the rolled tortillas, seam side down, in a baking dish. Cover and place in the refrigerator to chill for 2 hours or overnight. This chilling process helps the pinwheels hold their shape when cut.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Slice into Pinwheels: Once chilled, slice each tortilla roll into 1-inch pieces. You’ll see the beautiful spiral of the filling in each piece.
Presentation: Arrange them on a serving tray, showing off the rolled layers. Serve with a side of salsa for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Pinwheels:

Tortilla Choice: Use fresh, pliable tortillas to prevent cracking when rolling.
Customization: Feel free to add ingredients like black olives, jalapenos, or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Serving Suggestion: Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Common Questions & Answers

Can I make these pinwheels gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I prepare these pinwheels in advance?

Absolutely! They can be made a day ahead and kept chilled until serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximation per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	437 kcal
Carbohydrates	16 g
Protein	8 g
Fat	38 g
Saturated Fat	21 g
Cholesterol	120 mg
Sodium	746 mg
Potassium	181 mg
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	7 g
Vitamin A	1479 IU
Vitamin C	9 mg
Calcium	157 mg
Iron	1 mg

Mexican Pinwheels are a delightful and easy way to bring some zest to your snack or party table. With their creamy, spiced filling and easy-to-eat format, they’re perfect for any occasion that calls for a little bit of fun and flavor. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s roll up some tasty treats!