Sweet, spicy, cheesy, and crisp—Crispy Pepper Jelly Air Fryer Pinwheels are a must-try vegetarian appetizer with bold, irresistible flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory
- Crispy without deep frying
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Easy to prep and quick to cook
- Great make-ahead option for parties
- Crowd-pleasing finger food
- Just a handful of ingredients
- Perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pepper jelly
- 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large flour tortilla
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped mushrooms in a touch of oil until golden and tender. Let cool slightly
- In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese and pepper jelly until smooth
- Stir in the sautéed mushrooms, green onions, and shredded cheddar. Season with salt and pepper
- Spread the mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border
- Roll the tortilla tightly into a log and wrap in plastic wrap
- Chill for 30 minutes to help set the roll and make slicing easier
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C)
- Slice the tortilla roll into 1-inch pinwheels
- Place pinwheels in the air fryer basket in a single layer
- Air fry for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp
- Let cool slightly and serve warm
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 pinwheels
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 175 kcal per pinwheel
Variations
- Spicy twist: Use hot pepper jelly or add chopped jalapeños
- Cheese options: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda
- Add crunch: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts
- Vegan version: Use plant-based cream cheese and cheese
- Mini size: Use smaller tortillas for bite-sized versions
- Sweet option: Add a drizzle of honey or fig jam to the mix
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze the rolled, uncooked log for up to 1 month. Thaw slightly before slicing and air frying
- Reheating: Re-crisp in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes
FAQs
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and chill the roll a day ahead. Slice and air fry when ready to serve.
Are they good cold?
They’re best enjoyed warm, but still tasty at room temperature.
What’s the best kind of pepper jelly to use?
Use your favorite brand—mild or spicy depending on your heat preference.
Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh?
Fresh is preferred for texture, but well-drained canned mushrooms will work in a pinch.
Do I have to use cheddar cheese?
No, you can swap in any cheese that melts well and suits your flavor preference.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I prevent the filling from oozing out?
Chilling the roll before slicing helps hold the shape, and don’t overfill.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free tortilla to make this recipe gluten-free.
What dips pair well with these pinwheels?
Try ranch, sour cream, or more pepper jelly for dipping.
Can I make them spicy without changing the jelly?
Yes—add cayenne, hot sauce, or diced chili peppers to the filling.
Conclusion
Crispy Pepper Jelly Air Fryer Pinwheels deliver a bold punch of flavor in every bite. With the perfect mix of creamy, spicy, and savory ingredients wrapped in a crisp tortilla shell, these pinwheels are guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Vegetarian-friendly and effortlessly crowd-pleasing, this easy air fryer recipe is one you’ll reach for again and again.
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Crispy Pepper Jelly Air Fryer Pinwheels
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 8 pinwheels 1x
Description
Air-fried vegetarian pinwheels with sweet pepper jelly, sautéed mushrooms, cheddar, and cream cheese—crispy, creamy, and packed with bold flavor.
Ingredients
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup pepper jelly
1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 large flour tortilla
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Sauté mushrooms in a skillet over medium heat until golden; cool slightly.
Mix cream cheese and pepper jelly until smooth.
Stir in mushrooms, green onions, and cheddar. Season to taste.
Spread mixture over tortilla, leaving a small edge.
Roll tightly, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
Air fry in a single layer for 5–7 minutes, flipping once, until crispy.
Cool slightly and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute with gluten-free tortilla if needed.
- Can be prepped ahead and air-fried just before serving.
- Add red pepper flakes for extra spice, or use jalapeño jelly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air-Fried
- Cuisine: American