Jalapeño Popper Bacon Pinwheels

These Jalapeño Popper Bacon Pinwheels are a perfect party appetizer or snack for game nights. They take all the flavors of a classic jalapeño popper — creamy cheese, spicy peppers, and savory bacon — and wrap them up in flaky puff pastry that bakes to golden perfection. Bite-sized, fun to serve, and always a hit, they disappear fast whenever they’re on the table.

Servings

8 pinwheels

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Gently smooth out any creases so you have an even rectangle for spreading the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped jalapeños, and crumbled bacon. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed and creamy.

Step 4: Spread and Roll

Spread the cheese and jalapeño mixture evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log.

Step 5: Slice into Pinwheels

Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled pastry into rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each pinwheel so they can puff properly.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the beaten egg. This gives them a beautiful golden color as they bake. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the pinwheels to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes so the cheese sets slightly. Serve warm alongside your favorite dips or simply on their own.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the heat: Leave some jalapeño seeds in if you prefer extra spice, or use milder peppers for a gentler flavor.
Cheese swap: Try pepper jack for more heat or mozzarella for a milder, melty texture.
Vegetarian option: Omit the bacon and add finely chopped bell peppers or green onions for extra flavor.
Make ahead: Assemble the pinwheels and freeze them on the baking sheet before slicing. Store in the freezer, then bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels pair beautifully with crunchy veggies, ranch or salsa dip, or alongside a bowl of chili or soup. They also make a perfect addition to a buffet or holiday appetizer spread.