• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Picnic Lifestyle
  • Recipes
  • Picnic Tips
  • Summer
  • About
  • Contact
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Picnic Tips
  • Summer
  • About
  • Contact
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipes
  • Picnic Tips
  • Summer
  • About
  • Contact
×
Home » Picnic Finger Food

Veggie Pinwheels with Cream Cheese

Published: Feb 22, 2024 · Modified: Mar 8, 2024 by Kate O'Malley · This post may contain affiliate links. See end of article for more information · Leave a Comment


Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Veggie Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and convenience, making them an ideal choice for picnics.

Like my Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich and Pesto Caprese Sandwich, this delightful recipe combines summer’s fresh and fragrant flavors with the addition of cream cheese. They’re a light and healthy picnic sandwich and pretty picnic appetizers. What’s not to love?

A ladies hands arranging pinwheel sandwiches on a wooden board.
Jump to:
  • Why Pinwheels Are Great for Picnics
  • Ingredients
  • Recipe Variations and Substitutions
  • Step by Step Instructions
  • Recipe FAQs
  • Expert Tips
  • Related Recipes 
  • Veggie Pinwheels with Cream Cheese

Why Pinwheels Are Great for Picnics

Veggie pinwheels are an ideal choice for picnics for several reasons. Here’s why they shine, especially when enjoyed under the open sky:

  • No Mess: One of the easiest picnic finger food ideas around, like my Red Pepper Bruschetta, pinwheels are easy to eat without utensils, minimizing mess and cleanup.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: They can be prepared in advance, saving time on the picnic day. Pinwheels actually benefit from time in the fridge before cutting.
  • Healthy and Light: Veggie pinwheels are a healthy, satisfying sandwich option perfect for a light outdoor meal–like my Raw Veggie Wraps.
  • Visually Appealing: Pinwheels, like my open-smoked salmon sandwiches, have a very pretty picnic aesthetic.
  • Kid-Friendly: Their bite-sized nature and colorful appearance make them a great picnic food idea for kids.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Veggie Pinwheels with Cream Cheese on a white table.

See my recipe card below for a complete list of the ingredients with measurements and notes.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Spinach: I used frozen spinach in this recipe (ensure it is well drained). You can also use fresh baby spinach.
  • Cheese Additions: While cream cheese is the base, you can add cheeses like grated cheddar, manchego, or a sprinkle of parmesan.
  • Flavored Cream Cheese: Instead of plain cream cheese, you can use flavored cream cheese options like herb, garlic, or spicy jalapeño.
  • Vegetable Mix: The beauty of veggie pinwheels is the flexibility in vegetable choices. If you want to add some crunch, add some finely diced red pepper, grated carrot, or sprouts.
  • Vegan and Dairy-Free Options: To cater to vegan or dairy-free diets, hummus or baba ganoush can also work as a tasty base instead of cream cheese.
  • Add Crunch: For added crunch, sprinkle with finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans or seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Step by Step Instructions

Ingredients for veggie pinwheel filling in a glass bowl.

Step 1: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

A cream cheese mix with herbs and vegetables in a bowl.

Step 2: Mix well, ensuring all ingredients are well distributed.

Two tortilla wraps with cream cheese spread to make pinwheel sandwiches.

Step 3: Divide the filling among 4 flour tortillas, spreading it evenly to the edges. 

A tortilla wrap with cream cheese and fresh basil for a pinwheel sandwich.

Step 4: Cover half of each with fresh basil leaves (leaving a bare edge for the tortilla to adhere to itself). Press the basil gently to hold it in place before rolling.

A ladies hands rolling a pinwheel sandwich.

Step 5: Roll the tortillas tightly from one end to the other, starting from the basil end. Once rolled, gently squeeze to compact the wrap and filling.

You can serve them immediately, but chilling is recommended. Once rolled, wrap the rolls individually in plastic and place them in the fridge for at least an hour to let the cream cheese set again and help the wraps stay rolled after cutting.

A ladies hand cutting a wrap into pinwheel sandwiches.

Step 6: Place the wrap seam side down to cut once chilled. Use a sharp or serrated knife to carefully slice the tortillas into 1-inch rounds.

2 veggie pinwheel sandwiches stacked with a toothpick.

Step 7: Use cocktail picks to secure them if you want to make a fancy finger food platter or arrange the pinwheel rounds on a serving platter.

Recipe FAQs

Can I Make Veggie Pinwheels Ahead of Time?

Yes, veggie pinwheels can be made ahead of time. I recommend assembling and refrigerating the pinwheels for at least an hour or overnight before slicing and serving. This step helps the pinwheels hold their shape and makes slicing easier. However, for the best texture and freshness, consuming them within 24 hours is best.

Can I Freeze Veggie Pinwheels?

Freezing veggie pinwheels is not recommended. The texture of the cream cheese and vegetables can change after thawing, which can leave you with soggy pinwheels.

How Thick Should I Slice My Pinwheels?

Pinwheels are typically sliced about 1 inch thick. This thickness ensures they are bite-sized and easy to eat but still large enough to hold together. If you prefer, you can adjust the thickness to your liking. Just keep in mind that very thin slices may fall apart more easily.

How Do I Keep Pinwheels from Unraveling?

Spread the filling evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll the tortillas tightly.
Chill the rolled tortillas before slicing, as the cold helps set the shape.
Use toothpicks to secure them if necessary.

Expert Tips

Rolling and Slicing: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on the tortillas, leaving a small border to prevent the filling from squeezing out. After adding the veggies, roll the tortillas firmly and wrap them in plastic. Chill in the refrigerator before slicing into pinwheels to firm up the filling and prevent the pinwheels from unrolling, making them easier to cut and serve.

Tortillas: Large, soft tortillas are recommended for rolling. Warming them slightly can help make them more pliable and prevent tearing if they feel a little stiff.

Avoid Soggy Pinwheels: To prevent your pinwheels from becoming soggy, make sure you drain the spinach well. If you decide to add additional veggies, choose vegetables with low water content and drain any canned ingredients well. See my tips on preventing soggy sandwiches.

Storage and Serving: Pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator. To prevent them from becoming soggy, consume them within 24 hours of preparation, although they can last up to 3 days in the fridge. See my tips for keeping food cold for a picnic for food-safe tips.

Related Recipes 

  • Raw veggie wraps cut in half showing fillings.
    Raw Veggie Wraps with Avocado
  • Ricotta Bruschetta topped with roasted red peppers and bacon.
    Roasted Red Pepper Bruschetta with Bacon
  • Avocado and smoked salmon heart shaped sandwich topped with sprouts on a wooden cutting board.
    Smoked Salmon and Avocado Heart Shaped Sandwich
  • Stacked chicken salad sandwiches with crusts removed on a wooden board, garnished with fresh herbs.
    Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches

Did you try these Veggie Pinwheels? 

Please leave me a ⭐ rating below and let me know in the comments how you enjoyed them.

Pinwheel sandwiches arranged on a board with a red and white tablecloth.

Veggie Pinwheels with Cream Cheese

Kate O’Malley
These Veggie Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and convenience, making them an ideal choice for picnics.
This recipe combines cream cheese with the fresh and fragrant flavors of summer. 
4.67 from 3 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Chilling Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 7 oz cream cheese - room temperature
  • 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1 cup frozen spinach - Thawed and well drained
  • 2 large garlic cloves - minced
  • sea salt and black pepper
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. (ensure the spinach is well drained)
  • Mix well, ensuring all ingredients are well distributed.
  • Divide the filling among 4 flour tortillas, spreading it evenly to the edges.
  • Cover half of each with fresh basil leaves (leaving a bare edge for the tortilla to adhere to itself). Press the basil gently to hold it in place before rolling.
  • Roll the tortillas tightly from one end to the other, starting from the basil end. Once rolled, gently squeeze to compact the wrap and filling. You can serve them immediately, but chilling is recommended.
  • Once rolled, wrap the rolls individually in plastic and place them in the fridge for at least an hour to let the cream cheese set again and help the wraps stay rolled after cutting.
  • Place the wrap seam side down to cut once chilled. Use a sharp or serrated knife to carefully slice the tortillas into 1-inch rounds.
  • Use cocktail picks to secure them if you want to make a fancy finger food platter or arrange the pinwheel rounds on a serving platter.

Notes

Tips
  • Chill Before Cutting: Chill in the refrigerator before slicing into pinwheels to firm up the filling and prevent the pinwheels from unrolling, making them easier to cut and serve. 
  • Tortillas: Large, soft tortillas are recommended for rolling. Warming them slightly can help make them more pliable and prevent tearing if they feel a little stiff.
  • Spinach: Drain the spinach well to avoid any excess water, which could cause sogginess. 

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 11gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 435mgPotassium: 1193mgFiber: 6gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 5585IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 179mgIron: 4mg
Tried this recipe?Mention @picniclifestyle or leave a comment below.

More Easy Picnic Finger Food Recipes

  • Cucumber Shrimp Bite appetizers topped with mashed avocado and seasoned shrimp are arranged on a white plate.
    Cucumber Shrimp Bites
  • A hand dipping a piece of flatbread into a jar of salsa roja, garnished with a sprig of parsley.
    Simple Mexican Salsa Roja
  • A hand dipping a cracker into a bowl of cheesy broccoli dip, with additional crackers in a dish in the background.
    Warm Broccoli Cheese Dip
  • Brightly coloured platter of assorted dips with vegetable skewers.
    Delicious Dips for Charcuterie Boards

About Kate O'Malley

Picnic enthusiast, passionate cook, and the creative force behind Picnic Lifestyle. With a globe-trotting background and a keen eye for local ingredients, she's mastered the art of crafting delectable picnics and portable feasts (especially for long travel days). Kate's passion for al fresco dining comes alive in this guide, curating perfect picnics for every occasion.

Reader Interactions

4.67 from 3 votes (3 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

A woman in a blue vest standing in front of trees with blue lights.

Meet Kate, the unrivaled picnic fanatic who loves nothing more than to whip up a portable feast.

More about me →

Download Your Free Picnic Checklist

  • A picnic setup on a grassy area with a woven basket, two wine glasses, a bottle of wine, a corkscrew, a cutting board with cutlery, and a gray cloth.
    The Ultimate Picnic Checklist
Shop My Favourite Picnic Products at My Amazon Storefront

Summer Picnic Ideas

  • Summer picnic spread with chicken, hummus and coleslaw.
    Simply Perfect Summer Picnic Food Ideas
  • A collage of four vibrant, healthy dishes, each featuring a variety of vegetables, grains, and garnishes.
    Fresh Summer Salads for a Picnic
  • A picnic scene with two sandwiches wrapped in cloth, coleslaw on a plate, and a knife on a wooden cutting board, all atop a pink cloth.
    Summer Sandwiches for a Picnic
  • A collage of four chicken picnic dishes: a chicken baguette with figs and cheese, chicken balls on toothpicks, chicken wraps with salad, and finger sandwiches tied with chives.
    Easy Chicken Picnic Recipes
  • A colorful beetroot and orange salad with walnuts, cheese, and greens, served with a fork on the side.
    Salads With Fruit and Nuts for Every Season
  • Attractive couple enjoying a picnic with friends on the beach.
    Beach Picnic Ideas for Fuss-free Beach Days
See more Summer Picnic Ideas →

Popular Posts

  • 21 Best Picnic Games to Keep Everyone Entertained
  • A picnic setup on a white blanket with sliced melon, watermelon, pomegranate seeds, croissants, juice, and bowls of blackberries and raspberries.
    Breakfast Picnic Ideas to Get Up Early For
  • A picnic setup with croissants, watermelon, grapes, olives, cheese, salami, and two glasses of white wine on a table. A wicker basket is in the background.
    Delicious No Cook Picnic Food Ideas
  • A split image showing powdered sugar-dusted muffins on the left and strawberry rice crispy treats stacked on the right.
    20 Picnic Desserts That Don’t Need Refrigeration
  • Stacked chicken salad sandwiches with crusts removed on a wooden board, garnished with fresh herbs.
    Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches
  • Group of people enjoying a beach picnic with lots of food laid out on a picnic blanket.
    How to Keep Food Cold at a Picnic

Footer

↑ back to top

Terms

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclaimer
  • Accessibility

Newsletter

  • Sign Up! for emails and updates

Contact

  • Contact
  • About

Disclaimer – Picnic Lifestyle participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Many posts on this site also contain links to other affiliate sites offering products or services we recommend. This means if you make a purchase after clicking on a link, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Copyright © 2020-2025 Picnic Lifestyle

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.