If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing party appetizer or an easy, comforting snack that disappears in the blink of an eye, Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels are your next go-to recipe. These golden, bite-sized swirls combine the savory richness of breakfast sausage and luscious cream cheese, all tucked into buttery, flaky crescent roll dough. The hint of garlic and onion powder adds a little zing, making them impossible to resist whether served hot from the oven or at room temperature. This is the kind of treat you want to have on hand for everything from game day spreads to cozy brunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels is just how simple the ingredient list is, yet each item pulls its weight. These kitchen staples come together to create a celebration of flavor, texture, and color in every twirled bite.
- Breakfast sausage (1 pound, pork or turkey): Adds hearty, spicy flavor and savory protein at the heart of each pinwheel.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The ultimate creamy binder that melds with sausage for silky, rich filling.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (2 cans, 8 oz each): Delivers the perfect flaky, buttery exterior that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a subtle savory punch that enhances the sausage and cheese.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the flavors and adds a gentle aromatic background note.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a little warmth and complexity without overpowering the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, optional for garnish): Brightens everything up with a pop of green and a hint of freshness at the finish.
How to Make Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
Start by firing up a skillet over medium heat and adding your breakfast sausage of choice. As it browns, break up the sausage with a spatula into small crumbles, ensuring you get those delicious crispy edges. Once fully cooked, drain away any excess grease. Let the sausage cool for a few minutes—you want it warm but not so hot that it melts the cream cheese on contact.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm sausage crumbles with your softened cream cheese. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly, blending until every little bit is coated in that creamy, savory mixture. This step is your ticket to that signature flavor Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels are known for.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Grab a can of refrigerated crescent roll dough and unroll it onto a clean, lightly floured surface or a sheet of parchment paper. Pinch any seams gently together with your fingers to create one solid rectangle. This gives you the ideal canvas for spreading the tasty filling.
Step 4: Fill and Roll
Divide your sausage mixture in half. Take one portion and, using a spatula, spread it evenly across the rectangle of dough, leaving about a half-inch border along the edges. Starting with the long side, carefully roll up the dough into a tight log. Repeat with the second can of dough and remaining filling.
Step 5: Slice and Bake
Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each log into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange the rounds, cut side down, onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for pinwheels that are puffed, golden, and irresistibly fragrant.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, give your Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels a fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley, if desired. This simple touch makes them look as good as they taste. Serve them warm and watch everyone come running!
How to Serve Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Garnishes
A flourish of fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a lovely green color and a bit of brightness to each bite. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try a dusting of parmesan or a light drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory twist.
Side Dishes
Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels are perfect alongside other brunch favorites or party snacks. Try serving them with fresh fruit salad, crispy roasted potatoes, or even a crisp green salad with zesty vinaigrette. For dipping, set out small bowls of spicy mustard or cool ranch dressing.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your pinwheels in concentric circles on a large platter, or stand them upright in a pretty bread basket lined with a tea towel for an inviting, rustic look. For a festive tray, tuck in sprigs of herbs or edible flowers. These pinwheels also stack well on tiered cake stands for an afternoon tea or buffet spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before storing so they stay crisp and don’t get soggy.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, these pinwheels freeze like a dream. After slicing (before baking), arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 3 to 5 minutes to the original baking time. You’ll have hot, fresh appetizers on demand!
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked magic, pop refrigerated or thawed pinwheels back on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes. This quickly restores their crisp and gooey textures, so every bite tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Appetizer
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage lends traditional flavor, you can experiment with spicy Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and crumble well for the best texture.
Do I need to soften the cream cheese first?
Yes, softened cream cheese mixes much more easily with the cooked sausage, ensuring a perfectly creamy filling. If you’re in a rush, you can microwave the block for about 15 seconds to speed up the process.
Can I use gluten-free crescent dough?
Definitely! Many brands offer gluten-free crescent dough—just swap it in for an equally delicious, celiac-friendly version of Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels.
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
For sure! You can fully assemble and slice the pinwheels ahead, then refrigerate them up to 2 days before baking. This makes party prep a breeze, and the finished pinwheels come out just as flaky and flavorful.
What dipping sauces pair well with these pinwheels?
Try classic choices like honey mustard, spicy brown mustard, or ranch. For a bold kick, consider sriracha mayo or a homemade cheese dip. The creamy, savory filling in Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels stands up beautifully to all kinds of creative dips.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to fall in love with the pure comfort and crowd appeal of Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels. Whether you’re making a quick snack for family or elevating your next party platter, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles. Give them a try and get ready to hear that magical question: “Can I have the recipe?”
Print
Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pinwheels
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a delicious appetizer perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cream cheese, and flaky crescent roll dough creates a flavorful and satisfying bite-sized treat that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Sausage Filling:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Additional:
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz each)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease and let the sausage cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, stirring until well blended.
- Assemble the Pinwheels: Unroll one can of crescent dough and press the seams together to form a rectangle. Spread half of the sausage mixture evenly over the dough, then roll it up tightly from the long end into a log. Repeat with the second can of dough and remaining filling.
- Bake: Slice each roll into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels and place them cut side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- These pinwheels can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
- You can also freeze them after slicing and bake directly from frozen—just add 3 to 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
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