Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines savory flavors with a deliciously creamy texture, look no further than Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels. These delightful bites are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a game day party, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy weekend get-together. With a crispy outer layer and a warm, gooey center, these pinwheels are sure to steal the show.
Imagine the aroma of freshly baked crescent dough mingling with the rich scent of breakfast sausage and cream cheese. Sounds enticing, right? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home.
Why It Deserves a Spot
Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. They require minimal prep time and are baked to perfection in just a short while. The combination of flavors and textures makes them irresistible, appealing to both adults and kids alike. Plus, they make for an excellent finger food option, allowing your guests to enjoy them while mingling. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these pinwheels are a versatile addition to any menu.
What Goes Into Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels
To whip up these delightful pinwheels, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (I use Jimmy Dean for its rich flavor)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1 ½ teaspoons minced dried onion
- 2 (8-ounce) rolls crescent dough sheet (be sure to use sheets, not individual triangles)
These ingredients come together to create a creamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the flaky dough, making each bite a delightful experience.
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you start cooking, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowl – for combining the sausage and cream cheese.
- Baking sheet – to hold your pinwheels during baking.
- Parchment paper – optional, for easy cleanup.
- Rolling pin – to help with shaping the crescent dough.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – for slicing the pinwheels.
Having everything ready will streamline the process and make your cooking experience a breeze.
Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels Made Stepwise
Follow these simple steps to create your Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pinwheels bake evenly and achieve that golden-brown color.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked sausage, and minced dried onion. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. The cream cheese should be creamy and smooth, allowing for easy spreading.
4. Roll Out the Crescent Dough
On a clean, flat surface, unroll one sheet of crescent dough. Use a rolling pin to flatten it slightly, ensuring it’s even and smooth.
5. Spread the Filling
Evenly spread half of the cream cheese and sausage mixture over the crescent dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Roll Up the Dough
Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Make sure to roll it evenly to maintain the shape. Repeat this process with the second sheet of dough and the remaining filling.
7. Slice the Pinwheels
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice each log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should get around 12-15 pinwheels from each log.
8. Bake
Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these warm or at room temperature, and watch them disappear in no time!
Adaptations for Special Diets
If you’re looking to customize this recipe to accommodate specific dietary needs, consider the following adaptations:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free crescent dough to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the breakfast sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative.
- Low-carb: Replace crescent dough with a low-carb tortilla or use a cauliflower crust.
- Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicy kick.
These variations allow everyone to enjoy Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels regardless of their dietary restrictions.
Cook’s Notes
For the best results, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth filling that spreads easily. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before spreading it on the dough.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling for added flavor.
- Using fresh onions instead of dried can enhance the flavor, but make sure they are finely chopped.
- Be careful not to overcook the sausage, as this can make it dry.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
If you have any leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the pinwheels on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for an extra 5-7 minutes.
Reader Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as turkey sausage or spicy sausage, to suit your taste preferences.
What can I serve with these pinwheels?
Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing, salsa, or even a spicy mustard for a kick.
How can I make these in advance?
You can prepare the filling and roll the pinwheels a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I make these without crescent dough?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use puff pastry or even homemade dough as a substitute for crescent dough, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Time to Try It
Now that you have the recipe and all the tips you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and try making Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels. These delightful bites are perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness that is Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels!
Each bite is a savory explosion of flavor, and once you try these, you’ll understand why they deserve a permanent spot in your recipe collection. Enjoy!
Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even baking.
- 2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and cool slightly.
- 3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cooked sausage, and minced dried onion. Mix until smooth.
- 4. Unroll one sheet of crescent dough on a flat surface and flatten it slightly with a rolling pin.
- 5. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the crescent dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 6. Roll the dough into a tight log and repeat with the second sheet of dough and remaining filling.
- 7. Slice each log into 1-inch thick pinwheels, yielding about 12-15 pinwheels per log.
- 8. Place pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- 9. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for added flavor.
