Cheddar Bacon Pinwheels

Cheddar bacon pinwheels are one of those appetizers that feel almost unfair because they’re so easy and people love them way too much. I’ll be blunt: bacon + cheddar wrapped in buttery dough is a guaranteed win. These come out flaky, salty, cheesy, and perfect for parties, holidays, or game nights. They look impressive on a platter, but the effort level is lowwhich is exactly why I keep making them. If you need a no-risk appetizer, this is it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bacon and cheddar combo never fails
• Simple ingredients, big payoff
• Perfect make-ahead party food
• Crispy outside, melty inside
• Works for holidays, game day, or snacks

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Knife or pizza cutter
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Bacon

Cook bacon until just crisp, then chop finely. Let it cool completely before mixing.

Straight advice: Hot bacon melts the cheese too early and ruins the roll.

2. Make the Filling

Mix shredded cheddar with cooked bacon and a little seasoning. Keep it simplebacon already brings salt.

3. Roll the Dough

Roll out puff pastry or crescent dough into a rectangle. Spread the bacon-cheddar mixture evenly over the surface.

Mistake to avoid: Uneven filling means some pinwheels bake empty.

4. Slice the Pinwheels

Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice into even rounds. Place cut-side down on the baking sheet.

Pro tip: Chill the log for 10 minutes for cleaner slices.

5. Bake Until Golden

Bake until puffed, golden, and bubbling. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked pinwheels up to 1 month
• Reheat: Oven or air fryer keeps them crisp
• Serve with: Ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo

FAQs

Can I make cheddar bacon pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.

Can I use crescent dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, crescent dough makes them softer and less flaky.

Do I need to add salt?
Usually nobacon and cheddar are salty enough.

Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze unbaked pinwheels and bake from frozen.

What cheese works besides cheddar?
Colby jack or mozzarella also work well.