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Pinwheel Sandwiches


These pinwheel sandwiches are flavorful and very versatile. You will only need a few ingredients and 15 minutes to make this easy appetizer.

Fill them with lunch meat and cheese or make them meatless; they are tasty and perfect for any time of the day!

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large round serving plate filled with different varieties of pinwheel sandwiches

What are pinwheel sandwiches?

Pinwheel sandwiches are a special type of sandwich roll-ups or tortilla roll-ups that is created by rolling up several different types of meats and cheese together around a slice of vegetable or fruit.

They are then cut into thin slices, which resemble spiral sandwiches or pinwheels. This creates a unique flavor and texture that is not found in other types of sandwiches.

Additionally, the pinwheel shape makes them a visually appealing addition to any lunch or dinner table.

It’s a delicious meal that will certainly please people of all ages. Just pick your favorite lunch meat and veggies to fill up a large tortilla or pita bread.

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • You don’t need any cooking skills to make the perfect lunch. The tortilla pinwheel sandwiches are easy and fast, which makes them great for unexpected guests!
  • With so many variations, they make a healthy snack, easy appetizers, or simple lunch and are perfect for a party tray.
  • They are great for meal prep; make them ahead of time to save time the following day.
  • These tortilla rollups are packable and perfect for lunch boxes or for meals on the go.
  • Load these mini sandwiches with leafy greens; they are a great way for kids to eat fresh veggies.

Best Bread for Pinwheel Sandwiches

When choosing the best bread for pinwheel sandwiches, it’s important to consider the texture, flexibility, and taste.

Consider its thickness as well. Thinner bread or tortillas tend to roll more easily and create tighter pinwheels. However, if you prefer a heartier sandwich, you can choose slightly thicker bread.

Here are a few bread options that work well for pinwheel sandwiches:

  • Tortillas: Tortillas are a popular choice for pinwheel sandwiches because they are soft, pliable, and easy to roll. You can use regular flour tortillas or opt for whole wheat, spinach, or flavored tortillas.
  • Lavash: Lavash is a thin and flexible flatbread that works wonderfully for pinwheel sandwiches. It has a light and slightly chewy texture, making it easy to roll without tearing. Lavash bread is often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.
  • Wraps or Roll-ups: Pre-made wraps or roll-up bread specifically designed for making sandwiches are great options for pinwheel sandwiches. These breads are typically thin and flexible and come in various flavors like spinach, tomato, or multigrain.

Pro Tip:

  • Choose large flour tortillas. These are easier to roll. Burrito-size tortillas will work the best.
  • Make sure that the tortillas you choose to use are soft. You can also double the tortilla to ensure it doesn’t crack and keep its shape.
three packages with different varieties of tortilla wraps to make pinwheel sandwiches

Pinwheel sandwiches fillings

Sliced meat – use any kind of deli meats: oven-roasted chicken, honey-baked sliced turkey, deli ham.

Sliced cheese – I used Havarti cheese; feel free to use provolone cheese or Swiss cheese.

Cream cheese – Use cream cheese to soften at room temp.

Goat cheese– softened at room temp.

Jam-wild blueberry jam, strawberry jam, or fig jam. Choose a thicker kind of jam that is not too sweet.

Greens– Baby spinach or green leaf lettuce, washed and dried.

Cucumber – English cucumber or Persian variety will work.

table top with ingredients for filling pinwheel sandwiches

How to make pinwheel sandwiches

Pinwheel sandwiches with cream cheese

Step 1. To make the pinwheels with cream cheese and cucumber, start making flavored cream cheese.

In the small bowl, add cream cheese, add the spices, and mix to combine.

Peel and thinly slice the cucumber. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top of the flatbread. Top cream cheese layer with cucumber slices.

process of making pinwheel sandwich filled with cream cheese and cucumber

Step 2. Roll the sandwich tightly, and cut into 1-inch slices. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later.

serving plate with sliced pinwheel sandwich filled with white cream cheese and green vegetable

Pinwheel sandwich with jam

Step 1. Start by spreading some soft goat cheese on top of the flatbread. Then spread jam on top. Place baby spinach, and spread evenly.

process of making pinwheel sandwich filled with purple-colored jam and spinach

Step 2. Roll the sandwich up tightly, and cut into 1-inch slices. Serve immediately.

white plate with sliced pinwheel sandwich with purple and green filling

Pinwheel sandwich with turkey

Step 1. All you need is some sliced cheese and sliced turkey. You can use any kind of deli meat or sliced cheese.

To make the pinwheel sandwiches, start by spreading a layer of flavored cream cheese spread on top of the flatbread. Then top with the spinach, sliced cheese, and sliced meat.

cutting board with tortilla topped with sliced lunch meat and sliced cheese

Step 2. Roll the sandwich up tightly, and cut into 1-inch slices. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later.

white plate with pinwheel sandwiches filled with lunch meat, cheese and white creamy filling

Recipe Tips

  • This recipe makes three kinds of pinwheel sandwiches; each offers 11 slices.
  • When making pinwheel sandwiches, wrap tightly, roll flatbread, and hold it tight when slicing.
  • Roll the bread or tortilla as tightly as possible without squeezing out the fillings. A tight roll helps the ingredients stay in place and prevents the pinwheel from unraveling.
  • When slicing, use a sharp knife.  A sharp knife ensures clean cuts without squishing or tearing the bread. Cut into 1/2 or 1-inch thick slices.
  • When using cucumbers, always peel and slice thinly so the cucumber slices are almost see-through; this will help when rolling sandwiches.
  • If tortillas are too thin, do a double-wrap to ensure they hold shape, and don’t unroll later.
  • Some recipes use mayo; I prefer a thicker base like goat cheese or cream cheese; it helps when storing sandwiches for a couple of days.
  • To make delicious pinwheels, when using cream cheese, mix it with desired spices (taco seasoning, ranch seasoning). I like to add: powdered garlic, powdered onion, dry chives, and dry dill.
  • When using jam, choose the thicker kind and avoid anything too runny.
  • Serve chilled or secure with toothpicks: If the pinwheel sandwiches have a tendency to unroll or the fillings are slippery, you can keep toothpicks inserted into each pinwheel to help hold them together until they are served.

Storing tips

For the best flavor, it’s recommended to serve these little sandwiches immediately and consume them within a few hours.

If you are not going to eat the sandwiches right away, you can store leftover pinwheel sandwiches in the fridge. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap so that they don’t get dry.

Keep your pinwheel sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

More Pinwheel Sandwiches Variations

Pinwheel sandwiches are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them with various fillings and flavors. Experiment with different combinations to find out what tastes best. Remember, practice makes perfect.

Here are a few ideas for delicious pinwheel sandwich variations:

Caprese Pinwheels

  1. Spread a layer of pesto cream cheese or sauce on a tortilla.
  2. Add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, tomato, and basil leaves.
  3. Roll up the tortilla tightly and slice it into pinwheels.

Veggie Hummus

  1. Spread a layer of hummus on a tortilla.
  2. Add a variety of sliced veggies, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, carrots, and spinach.
  3. Roll up the tortilla tightly and slice it into pinwheels.

Italian Antipasto

  1. Spread a layer of cream cheese or Italian dressing on a tortilla.
  2. Layer sliced salami, provolone cheese, roasted red peppers, and black olives on top.
  3. Roll up the tortilla tightly and slice it into pinwheels.

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese

  1. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese over a tortilla.
  2. Next, layer thin slices of smoked salmon evenly on top of the cream cheese. Sprinkle fresh dill, green onion, or chives for added flavor.
  3. Roll tightly, starting from one end. Secure with toothpicks and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up. Remove the toothpicks and slice the chilled roll into pinwheels.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

what pinwheel sandwiches are made of?

They are made of a large tortilla or flatbread and topped with greens and meat.

How to make pinwheel sandwiches?

You place the sandwich fillings on top of the large flour tortilla, then roll them up! It’s a pinwheel sandwich because when you cut it into slices, they look like pinwheels.

Can you make pinwheels the night before?

Yes, you can make a pinwheel sandwich the night before! Place it in a container with some wax paper on top so the bread won’t get soggy from the moisture in the veggies, and pop it in the fridge overnight.

How to keep pinwheel sandwiches from getting soggy?

Many people like pinwheel sandwiches for lunch. But when they come in contact with moisture, they tend to get soggy. To prevent this, place dry veggies layer between moist flavored spread and tortillas.

round serving plate with colorful pinwheel sandwiches

More Easy Recipes

Did you try this recipe? I love hearing from you! Don’t forget to rate and leave a comment below.

large round serving plate filled with different varieties of pinwheel sandwiches

Pinwheel sandwiches

Natalia-Flavorful Home
These pinwheel sandwiches are flavorful and very versatile. You will only need a few ingredients and 15 minutes to make them. Fill them with lunch meat and cheese or make them meatless, they are tasty and perfect for any time of the day!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

Cream cheese pinwheel sandwiches

  • 2 tortillas 
  • 8 oz cream cheese soften at room temp
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 1 English cucumber

Jam and goat cheese pinwheel sandwiches

  • 2 tortillas
  • 10 oz blueberry jam
  • 5 oz goat cheese soften at room temp
  • 2 cups baby spinach packed, rinsed

Turkey and Havarti cheese sandwiches

  • 2 tortilla
  • 8 oz cream cheese soften at room temp
  • 6 slices of turkey meat
  • 6 slices of Havarti cheese
  • 1 cup spinach rinsed

Instructions
 

  • Gather the ingredients.
  • Make flavored spread by mixing cream cheese or goat cheese with spices.
  • Peel and thinly slice the cucumber. Spread a layer of cream cheese or goat cheese on top of the flatbread. Then top with desired toppings.
  • Roll the sandwich up tightly, and cut into 1-inch slices. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later.

Notes

This recipe makes 3 kinds of pinwheel sandwiches, each offering 11 slices. Nutrition is approximately calculated for one slice. 
When making pinwheel sandwiches, tightly roll flatbread and hold it tight when slicing.
When slicing, use a sharp knife. Cut into 1/2 or 1-inch thick slices.
When using cucumbers, always peel and slice thinly so the cucumber slices are almost see-through, this will help when rolling sandwiches.
If tortillas are too thin, do a double-wrap to ensure they hold shape and don’t unroll later.
Some recipes use mayo, I prefer a thicker base like goat cheese or cream cheese, it helps when storing sandwiches for a couple of days.
To make delicious pinwheels, when using flavored cream cheese, mix it with desired spices (taco seasoning, ranch seasoning). I like to add: powdered garlic, powdered onion, dry chives, dry dill.
When using jam, choose the thicker kind and avoid anything too runny.
For best flavor, it’s recommended for these little sandwiches to serve immediately and consume within a few hours.
If you are not going to eat the sandwiches right away, you can store leftover pinwheel sandwiches in the fridge. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap so that they don’t get dry. Keep your pinwheel sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 103kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 139mgPotassium: 68mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 498IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 33mgIron: 1mg
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Natalia | Flavorful home
Natalia is a recipe developer, food photographer, and home cook. She started Flavorful Home to document her recipes and share home cooking tips. She loves creating flavorful and nutritious meals while keeping the cooking process simple and joyful!
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