Bright, festive, and bursting with flavor these Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels are the perfect party bite! With creamy, tangy cheese and a sweet-spicy pepper jelly swirl, these colorful pinwheels are as eye-catching as they are delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as a quick appetizer, this easy make-ahead recipe brings together texture, color, and bold flavor in every bite.

Ingredients:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup pepper jelly
4 large flour tortillas
1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)
1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, pepper jelly, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
Sprinkle chopped herbs and sliced bell peppers evenly across the surface.
Starting at one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape.
Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Slice into 1-inch pinwheels and arrange on a platter to serve.

Variation:

Add Protein: For a heartier twist, layer thin slices of turkey, ham, or smoked salmon over the cream cheese before rolling. It adds savory depth and makes the pinwheels more filling.
Make It Spicier: Use a hot pepper jelly or add a few diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick of heat. Perfect for spice lovers!
Sweet & Fruity Touch: Try mixing in a spoonful of apricot or mango preserves with the pepper jelly for a fruitier flavor balance that pairs beautifully with cream cheese.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh basil, dill, or mint to create unique flavor profiles that complement your chosen pepper jelly.

Cooking Notes:

Chill Time Matters: Allowing the rolls to rest in the refrigerator ensures the filling sets and the slices hold their shape perfectly.
Use Fresh Tortillas: Soft, pliable tortillas make rolling easier and prevent cracks. If needed, warm them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds.
Balance the Flavors: Taste the filling before spreading adjust salt, pepper, or jelly to your preference for just the right mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy.

Serving Suggestions:

Appetizer Platter: Arrange the colorful pinwheels on a large platter alongside olives, cheese cubes, and crackers for a stunning party display.
Lunchbox Favorite: Pack a few pinwheels in a lunch container with fresh fruit and nuts for a quick, balanced midday meal.
Holiday Snack Board: Pair them with cranberry brie bites, spiced nuts, or stuffed dates for a festive and vibrant holiday spread.

Tips:

Soften the Cream Cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before mixing — this ensures a smooth, spreadable filling.
Slice with a Sharp Knife: Use a serrated or very sharp knife to cut clean, neat rounds without squishing the filling.
Make Ahead: These pinwheels can be made a day ahead; just slice right before serving for the freshest look and taste.

Prep Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 3 g
Sodium: 210 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
You can, but flour tortillas roll more easily and hold their shape better. Corn tortillas tend to crack when rolled.
How long can I store these pinwheels?
Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed within 24 hours for the freshest texture.
Can I freeze the pinwheels?
Freezing isn’t recommended the cream cheese filling can separate once thawed.
What type of pepper jelly works best?
Both red and green pepper jellies are great! Red offers a sweet heat, while green adds a more herbaceous, tangy note.

Conclusion

These Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels are the ultimate combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Simple to make, beautifully colorful, and easy to customize, they’re the kind of appetizer that disappears fast. Make a batch ahead of time, slice them fresh, and watch your guests come back for more!

Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Author: Avery
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup pepper jelly
4 large flour tortillas
1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)
1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, pepper jelly, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
Sprinkle chopped herbs and sliced bell peppers evenly across the surface.
Starting at one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape.
Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Slice into 1-inch pinwheels and arrange on a platter to serve.

Notes

Chill Time Matters: Allowing the rolls to rest in the refrigerator ensures the filling sets and the slices hold their shape perfectly.
Use Fresh Tortillas: Soft, pliable tortillas make rolling easier and prevent cracks. If needed, warm them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds.
Balance the Flavors: Taste the filling before spreading adjust salt, pepper, or jelly to your preference for just the right mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer / Snack
Method: No-cook, refrigerated
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 2–3 pinwheels)
Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 210 mg
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 25 mg

Keywords: pepper jelly pinwheels, cream cheese pinwheels, party appetizers, no-cook snacks, holiday appetizers