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Round cheddar and chive pinwheels stacked on a plate.

Easy Cheddar and Chive Pinwheels

These Cheddar and Chive Pinwheels are one of our favorite low-effort, high-reward appetizers. Soft whipped cream cheese, melted cheddar, fresh chives, and cracked black pepper are layered in golden puff pastry for a super simple and easy party snack.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Pinwheels
Servings: 24 pinwheels

Ingredients

  • 2 sheets puff pastry thawed
  • 1 cup whipped cream cheese room temperature
  • 4 tbsp diced chives (divided)
  • 2 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 tsp cracked black pepper (divided) plus more, if desired
  • Egg wash 1 egg mixed with splash of water
  • Flaky sea salt (optional) like Maldon
  • Flour, for surface

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Place one of the puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle a little flour on top and roll it out slightly.
    2 sheets puff pastry, Flour, for surface
  • Spread 1/2 cup cream cheese onto the surface of the puff pastry, covering it in a light, thin layer.
    1 cup whipped cream cheese
  • Sprinkle 2 tbsp chives on top of the cream cheese, then cover with about 1 ¼ cup shredded cheddar. Crack a generous amount of black pepper on top of the cheddar (about 1/2 tsp).
    4 tbsp diced chives (divided), 2 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided), 1 tsp cracked black pepper (divided)
  • Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut strips of the puff pastry, cutting parallel to the shorter edge.
  • Roll up each strip into a coil or pinwheel shape, pinching the ends of the puff pastry together. Place the rolls, flat-sides-down, onto the parchment.
  • Optionally brush the rolls with egg wash, the bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown, puffed, and cooked through. Top with flaky salt, if desired.
    Egg wash, Flaky sea salt (optional)
  • Repeat steps with the 2nd sheet of puff pastry.

Notes

Tips

  • Make sure your puff pastry is thawed but still cold.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese. 
  • Don’t go too heavy on the egg wash, if using.