Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels

These Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels are buttery, flaky, cheesy, and packed with savory sausage flavor. Made with seasoned ground sausage, smooth cream cheese, and golden puff pastry, these delicious bite-sized treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, parties, holiday gatherings, or a quick family snack!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 18–22 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes
Servings: 20–24 pinwheels
Course: Appetizer / Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (approximately 250 g)

• ½ pound (225 g) ground breakfast sausage

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon paprika

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the ground sausage and break it into small pieces using a wooden spoon or spatula.

3. Cook for 6–8 minutes until completely browned and cooked through.

4. Drain excess grease from the sausage.

5. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Place softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl.

2. Add the cooked sausage.

3. Add shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.

4. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.

5. Mix everything together until evenly combined.

6. Make sure the filling is creamy and evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Place the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.

2. Gently roll it out into a rectangle.

3. Spread the sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry.

4. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out.

5. Carefully roll the pastry lengthwise into a tight log.

Step 4: Chill and Slice

1. Wrap the pastry log tightly in plastic wrap.

2. Refrigerate for approximately 20 minutes to help it firm up.

3. Remove the chilled log from the refrigerator.

4. Using a sharp knife, slice it into approximately ½-inch thick rounds.

5. Arrange the pinwheels cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Leave some space between each piece.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

1. Beat one egg in a small bowl.

2. Lightly brush the tops and exposed pastry edges with the beaten egg.

3. This will help the pinwheels develop a beautiful golden-brown color as they bake.

Step 6: Bake the Pinwheels

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.

3. Bake for 18–22 minutes.

4. Check that the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and crispy.

5. Make sure the filling is hot throughout.

6. Remove from the oven and allow the pinwheels to cool for 5 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the warm pinwheels to a serving platter.

2. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top if desired.

3. Serve warm while the pastry is flaky and the cheese filling is creamy.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels

• Soften the cream cheese: This makes the filling easier to spread.

• Cool the sausage: Hot sausage can soften the pastry before baking.

• Chill before slicing: This helps maintain beautiful spiral shapes.

• Avoid overfilling: Too much filling can cause it to leak during baking.

• Use a sharp knife: This keeps the pinwheels neat and round.

• Bake until golden: Proper baking gives the pastry a delicious flaky texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I make sausage cream cheese pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the rolled pastry log, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking.

Q2: Can I use crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry?

Absolutely! Crescent roll dough works wonderfully and creates a softer, buttery texture.

Q3: Can I use turkey sausage?

Yes! Turkey sausage is a delicious alternative to traditional pork sausage.

Q4: Can I add more cheese?

Yes! You can add mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or extra cheddar for a cheesier filling.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Q6: Can I freeze these pinwheels?

Yes! Freeze the baked and cooled pinwheels in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Q7: How do I reheat them?

Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 5–8 minutes until warm and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

• Honey mustard dipping sauce

• Ranch dressing

• Garlic mayonnaise

• Fresh fruit salad

• Scrambled eggs

• Fresh vegetable platter

Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and irresistible Sausage Cream Cheese Pinwheels!