These creamy, cheesy tortilla pinwheels packed with savory bacon and a punch of ranch seasoning make the perfect party appetizer or easy snack. Quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Servings & Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional, for easier slicing)
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: About 24 pinwheels (6 per tortilla)
Dietary Tags: Appetizer, Party Food, Make-Ahead Friendly
📝 Ingredients
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4 large flour tortillas
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
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Optional: chopped green onions for extra zing
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Filling
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In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
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Fold in chopped green onions if using.
Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels
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Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface.
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Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla.
Step 3: Roll & Slice
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Roll each tortilla tightly into a log.
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For best results, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
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Slice each roll into 6–8 pinwheels.
Step 4: Serve
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Arrange pinwheels on a platter and garnish with extra green onions if desired. Enjoy!
💡 Notes & Tips
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Tight rolls: Chilling helps firm up the filling, making slicing easier and cleaner.
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Lighter option: Use light cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar to cut W-W points.
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Flavor boost: A dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños can add a spicy kick.
📸 Step-by-Step Guide
(Suggested photos: mixing filling → spreading on tortillas → rolling → slicing → plated pinwheels)
Pro Tip: Use a serrated knife for cleaner slicing without squishing the pinwheels.
🥄 Ingredient Insights & Swaps
Why these ingredients?
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Cream cheese: Creamy base that holds the filling together.
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Ranch seasoning: Provides bold, herby flavor.
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Cheddar & bacon: Classic savory combo.
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Tortillas: Easy-to-roll base for the filling.
Substitutions:
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Use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas to lower carbs and W-W points.
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Turkey bacon can be swapped in for a lighter option.
🎨 Flavor Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Add-Ins:
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Diced jalapeños or roasted red peppers.
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Chopped fresh dill for extra herby flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
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Serve with extra ranch dressing or salsa for dipping.
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Pair with a veggie platter for a balanced snack spread.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
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Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Make-Ahead: These can be made up to a day in advance. Wrap tightly and refrigerate until ready to slice and serve.
🔎 Nutrition & W-W Points (per 4-piece serving estimate)**
Calories: ~220 kcal | Protein: ~7g | Carbs: ~12g | Fat: ~15g
W-W Points (regular version with full-fat cheese and bacon):
➡️ 6 Points
Lightened version (light cream cheese, reduced-fat cheddar, turkey bacon, and low-carb tortillas):
➡️ 4 Points
Points will vary based on the brand of tortillas and type of bacon/cheese used. For best accuracy, enter your specific ingredients into the W-W app.
Allergens: Wheat, Milk
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Absolutely—pepper jack or Colby work well too.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Yes, just use gluten-free tortillas.
Q: Can these be frozen?
A: Not recommended. The cream cheese filling may separate when thawed.
📝 The Story Behind the Recipe
These bacon cheddar ranch pinwheels have been my go-to appetizer for potlucks and game days. They’re super easy to make, and I love how they can be prepped ahead—plus, they’re always the first thing to disappear at any party!
🗨️ Let’s Chat!
Did you make these pinwheels? Did you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twist? Drop a comment or tag me—I’d love to see your version!