Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Pinwheels are a colorful, zesty, and crowd-pleasing appetizer made with creamy, spiced filling rolled up in soft tortillas. Packed with Mexican-inspired flavors like taco seasoning, salsa, cheese, and fresh veggies, these bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties, potlucks, or quick make-ahead lunches.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flour tortillas (soft, burrito-size)cream cheese (softened)sour creamshredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheesemild or spicy salsa (well-drained)green onionsblack olives (optional)diced bell peppers or jalapeños (optional)taco seasoningcilantro (optional for garnish)

directions

In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, taco seasoning, and shredded cheese until smooth and combined.

Stir in chopped green onions, black olives, and optional diced peppers.

Spread an even layer of the mixture over each tortilla.

Roll the tortillas up tightly and wrap in plastic wrap.

Chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Slice into 1-inch pinwheels and serve on a platter.

Garnish with chopped cilantro or serve with extra salsa or guacamole on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 30 pinwheels (depending on tortilla size).Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add shredded rotisserie chicken or ground beef for extra protein.

Use spinach or sun-dried tomato tortillas for color.

Add corn, black beans, or avocado chunks for extra texture.

Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

Store pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Not suitable for reheating—best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make them ahead?

Yes, prepare up to a day in advance and slice just before serving.

Do I need to drain the salsa?

Yes, draining helps prevent soggy pinwheels.

Can I make them spicier?

Use hot salsa, jalapeños, or add cayenne to the filling.

What tortillas work best?

Soft flour tortillas roll best and hold their shape.

Are these vegetarian?

Yes, if made without meat or meat-based toppings.

Can I freeze them?

Not recommended—tortillas and cream cheese filling do not freeze well.

How do I keep them from unrolling?

Wrap tightly and chill well before slicing.

What dips pair well?

Salsa, guacamole, or chipotle ranch make great dipping sauces.

Can I use a food processor?

Yes, for a smoother filling texture—pulse gently to avoid overmixing.

Are they kid-friendly?

Yes, especially if using mild salsa and skipping spicy add-ins.

Conclusion

Mexican Pinwheels are a quick, festive, and flavorful snack that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With creamy filling, bold seasoning, and fresh ingredients all rolled into every bite, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a grab-and-go lunch option.