Irresistible Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe for Fall Treats

Creamy pumpkin cream cheese pinwheels dance with autumn’s warmth and comfort.

Soft pastry spirals invite delightful sensations across your palate.

Delicate layers promise a sweet adventure for weekend baking enthusiasts.

Seasonal spices mingle within each tender roll, creating irresistible aromas.

Rich cream cheese blends seamlessly with pumpkin earthy notes.

Unexpected textures and flavors await you in this simple yet elegant treat.

Roll up your sleeves and let magic unfold in your kitchen.

What’s Great About Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pinwheels

• Quick and Easy Preparation: Whip up these delightful pinwheels in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy home cooks looking for a fast and delicious treat.
• Versatile Snack Option: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or a quick afternoon bite, these pumpkin cream cheese pinwheels suit multiple occasions and satisfy sweet cravings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combo: The irresistible blend of creamy cream cheese, warm pumpkin spice, and optional crunchy pecans creates a mouthwatering appetizer that appeals to all taste buds.
• No-Bake Convenience: Skip the oven and enjoy a stress-free recipe that requires minimal cooking skills, making it accessible for both novice and experienced home chefs.

Ingredients Checklist For Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pinwheels

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and tangy dairy product that provides rich texture and creamy consistency.
• Pumpkin Puree: A natural, sweet vegetable puree that adds autumn flavor and moisture to the mixture.
• Powdered Sugar: A fine sugar that sweetens and helps create a smooth filling.
• Vanilla Extract: A classic flavoring that enhances the overall taste of the cream cheese mixture.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A warm blend of spices that adds traditional fall flavor to the pinwheels.

• Flour Tortilla: A soft, flexible wrap that serves as the base for rolling the pinwheel.

• Pecans: A crunchy nut that provides additional texture and nutty flavor to the pinwheels.

How To Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pinwheels Easily

Step 1: Whip Up Creamy Pumpkin Filling

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese until it’s velvety smooth.

Gently fold in the rich pumpkin puree, creating a luscious base.

Sprinkle in powdered sugar for sweetness, then add a splash of vanilla extract.

Dust with warm pumpkin pie spice to awaken those cozy autumn flavors.

Stir everything together until the mixture becomes completely uniform and silky.

Step 2: Spread The Delightful Mixture

Grab a soft flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean cutting board.

Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, generously spread the pumpkin cream cheese mixture across the entire surface.

Ensure an even layer from edge to edge, leaving just a tiny border around the tortilla.

Step 3: Enhance With Crunchy Texture

Sprinkle a generous handful of finely chopped pecans over the cream cheese layer.

The nuts will add a delightful crunch and nutty undertone that complements the smooth filling perfectly.

Step 4: Create The Perfect Roll

Carefully start rolling the tortilla from one end, creating a tight, neat log.

Apply gentle, consistent pressure to ensure the pinwheel holds its shape.

Roll slowly and steadily to maintain an even thickness throughout.

Step 5: Chill And Set

Wrap the rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap, twisting the ends to secure.

Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

This cooling time helps the pinwheels firm up and makes slicing much easier.

Step 6: Slice And Serve

Remove the chilled roll from the refrigerator and unwrap.

Using a sharp knife, slice into beautiful rounds approximately half an inch thick.

Arrange on a serving platter and watch your guests delight in these elegant, tasty treats.

Expert Tips For Flaky Pumpkin Cheese Pinwheels

• Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing without overbeating.
• Add an extra pinch of pumpkin pie spice or a dash of cinnamon to enhance the warm, autumnal taste of the pinwheels.
• Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to evenly distribute the cream cheese mixture, preventing thick or thin patches.
• Try toasting pecans beforehand to intensify their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to the pinwheels.
• Prepare the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and making party prep easier.

Pumpkin Pinwheel Variations To Brighten Up Snacks

• Gluten-Free Delight: Replace flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas or large lettuce leaves for a celiac-friendly version.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies.
• Vegan Transformation: Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based sweetener, and coconut whipped cream as alternative ingredients.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap tortillas with large cucumber slices or thin zucchini ribbons for a lighter, carb-conscious approach.

How To Present Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pinwheels Nicely

• Fall Flavor Feast: Serve these pinwheels as a delightful autumn appetizer during game day gatherings or holiday parties.
• Breakfast Bite Delight: Pair these creamy pinwheels with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a quick morning treat that satisfies sweet cravings.
• Elegant Party Platter: Arrange the pinwheels on a decorative serving board with fresh herbs or seasonal garnishes to create an eye-catching presentation that impresses guests.
• Picnic Perfect Snack: Pack these portable rolls in a lunch box or picnic basket for a convenient and tasty on-the-go snack that travels well.

Best Ways To Store Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pinwheels

• Store pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months for maximum freshness.
• Transfer frozen pinwheels to the refrigerator overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
• Gently warm pinwheels in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them come to room temperature naturally for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Are pecans necessary for this recipe?

No, pecans are optional and can be skipped if you prefer or have nut allergies. They just add extra crunch and texture to the pinwheels.

• Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Flour tortillas work best for this recipe because they’re softer and roll more easily without cracking. Corn tortillas might be too stiff and break during rolling.

• How long can I keep these pinwheels in the refrigerator?

These pinwheels can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container. The cream cheese mixture helps them stay fresh and tasty.

• Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. It contains cream cheese, pumpkin, and optional pecans, which are all vegetarian ingredients.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Autumn’s sweet sensation, pumpkin cream cheese pinwheels, blend warm spices with creamy filling in a delightful swirl of comfort. Delicate pastry rolls promise a perfect balance of seasonal flavors that dance on your palate with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 large flour tortilla
• 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) pumpkin puree

Sweeteners and Spices:

• 1/4 cup (30 grams) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Optional Topping:

• 1/4 cup (30 grams) chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk cream cheese, pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice until achieving a velvety, uniform consistency.
2. Place a flour tortilla on a clean cutting board, then carefully spread the prepared pumpkin cream cheese mixture across the entire surface, ensuring an even layer.
3. Scatter chopped pecans uniformly over the cream cheese mixture, creating a delightful textural dimension to the pinwheel.
4. Gently roll the tortilla from one edge, applying consistent pressure to create a compact, cylindrical shape without squeezing out the filling.
5. Encase the rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap, securing the ends to maintain its form, and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes until the log becomes firm and easily sliceable.
6. Remove the chilled roll from the refrigerator, discard the plastic wrap, and use a sharp knife to cut into 1/2-inch thick pinwheel slices, wiping the blade clean between cuts for precise, neat sections.
7. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter, presenting them with the vibrant filling and golden tortilla edges facing upward for an appealing presentation.

Notes

• Optimize Cream Cheese Texture ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing.
• Enhance Flavor Depth toast pecans briefly before adding to boost their nutty, rich taste and release essential oils.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation swap flour tortillas with gluten-free alternatives like large lettuce leaves or rice paper wraps for dietary flexibility.
• Make-Ahead Magic prepare pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance, storing tightly wrapped in refrigerator to develop deeper flavor profiles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Rolling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 179 kcal
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 110 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg