Easy 3-Ingredient Cheese Pinwheels

Featured in: Cozy Snack Plates

These pinwheels combine flaky puff pastry with shredded cheddar cheese for a golden, cheesy bite. Simply roll the pastry with cheese, slice into pieces, brush with egg for a golden finish, and bake until puffed. Perfect as a quick appetizer or snack, they come together with minimal ingredients and bake in just 15 minutes. Variations include using different cheeses or adding herbs for extra flavor.

Updated on Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:34:00 GMT
Golden-brown Easy 3-Ingredient Cheese Pinwheels, freshly baked and bursting with melted cheddar cheese aroma. Pin This
Golden-brown Easy 3-Ingredient Cheese Pinwheels, freshly baked and bursting with melted cheddar cheese aroma. | messli.com

Crispy, golden, and cheesy pinwheels made with just three ingredients — a perfect quick appetizer or snack, ready in minutes!

These cheese pinwheels quickly became a favorite for gatherings as they are super simple to make and always disappear fast.

Ingredients

  • Dough: 1 sheet (about 250 g) refrigerated puff pastry, thawed
  • Cheese: 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
  • Flavoring: 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface.
Step 3:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the entire surface of the pastry.
Step 4:
Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the pastry into a log.
Step 5:
Slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
Step 6:
Arrange the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
Step 7:
Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Step 8:
Bake for 12 15 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Step 9:
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
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My family loves gathering around to enjoy these fresh from the oven, often pairing them with a cool dipping sauce for extra delight.

Notes

Try other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or gruyr for variety Add a sprinkle of dried herbs or a dash of black pepper for extra flavor Serve with a dipping sauce such as marinara or ranch if desired

Required Tools

Baking sheet Parchment paper Sharp knife Pastry brush

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (gluten) Milk Egg Check packaging for possible traces of nuts or soy Always double-check ingredient labels if you have food allergies

A close-up of flaky Easy 3-Ingredient Cheese Pinwheels showing their wonderfully swirled, cheesy filling. Pin This
A close-up of flaky Easy 3-Ingredient Cheese Pinwheels showing their wonderfully swirled, cheesy filling. | messli.com

Serve the pinwheels warm for the best taste and texture They make a perfect quick snack or party appetizer

Recipe Q&A

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, gouda, or gruyère also melt beautifully for a delicious twist.

How do I prevent soggy pinwheels?

Ensure the pastry is well chilled before baking and brush with egg wash to create a golden, crisp crust.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them for up to a few hours before baking to save time.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli complement the cheesy flavor perfectly.

Are these suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, they contain no meat and use vegetarian-friendly ingredients like cheese and puff pastry.

Easy 3-Ingredient Cheese Pinwheels

Crispy golden pinwheels with cheddar and puff pastry, perfect for a quick, cheesy snack in minutes.

Prep Needed
5 minutes
Time to Cook
15 minutes
Overall Time
20 minutes
Created by Messli Tessa Marlow


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine International

Makes 12 Portions

Dietary Notes Meat-Free

What You'll Need

Dough

01 1 sheet refrigerated puff pastry, thawed (approximately 8.8 oz)

Cheese

01 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 3.5 oz)

Flavoring

01 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)

Steps

Step 01

Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Roll out puff pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured work surface.

Step 03

Add cheese topping: Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese over the entire surface of the pastry.

Step 04

Form pastry log: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log shape.

Step 05

Slice into pinwheels: Cut the log into 12 equal slices to form pinwheels.

Step 06

Arrange on baking sheet: Place pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 07

Brush with egg wash: Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg to achieve a golden crust.

Step 08

Bake until golden: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

Step 09

Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Pastry brush

Allergy Details

Be sure to check each ingredient for allergens and consult your healthcare provider if you have questions.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), milk, and egg. Confirm packaging for possible traces of nuts or soy.

Nutrition Breakdown (per portion)

For general guidelines only. Not meant to provide medical or dietary diagnosis.
  • Caloric Value: 110
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Proteins: 3 g