Pepper Jelly Air Fryer Pinwheels

After one too many evenings staring at bland snacks, I decided it was time for something vibrant. Those late-night searches in foodie groups led me to an idea: cream cheese, pepper jelly, and puff pastry, twisted into pinwheels. It sounded simple, but I knew the air fryer could elevate it—faster, crisper, and more fun than traditional baking.

The first batch disappeared before the timer even hit zero. The pepper jelly adds just enough heat and sweetness, the cream cheese brings balance, and the pastry? Flaky, buttery perfection. It felt bold yet effortless—a snack you’d expect at a party, but easy enough for a solo treat.

These pinwheels now pop up at brunches, game nights, and impromptu gatherings. They’re proof that the best snacks don’t need complexity—just flavor, texture, and a little twist.

Short Description

Pepper Jelly Air Fryer Pinwheels are flaky pastry spirals filled with tangy cream cheese and sweet-spicy pepper jelly, cooked until crisp. They’re quick, colorful, and perfect for parties or simple indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Takes only about 20 minutes from prep to plate
• Sweet and spicy flavor with creamy texture
• Air fryer makes them crispier and faster
• Kid-approved and crowd-pleasing
• Easy to swap or boost fillings for variety

Ingredients

Pastry & Spread

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup pepper jelly (your choice of heat)

Optional Add-Ins

• Splash of lime juice or zest
• Finely chopped cilantro or chives

Tools Needed

• Air fryer
• Rolling pin & lightly floured surface
• Small bowl & spoon or offset spatula
• Sharp knife or bench scraper
• Parchment paper or air fryer liner (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prep Pastry
Preheat air fryer to 375°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll puff pastry to a 10×12-inch rectangle for even thickness.

Step 2: Spread Layer
In a bowl, whisk cream cheese until smooth. Stir in pepper jelly and optional lime or herbs. Spread mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a half-inch border.

Step 3: Roll & Slice
Roll pastry into a tight log from one long side. Seal the edge with a little water. Slice into twelve 1-inch pinwheels.

Step 4: Air Fry in Batches
Place pinwheels in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on parchment—don’t overcrowd. Cook 10–12 minutes until golden brown, flipping gently halfway through.

Step 5: Cool & Serve
Let cool 2–3 minutes before serving. They’ll crisp further as they cool. Perfect warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Notes & Common Mistakes

• Make sure cream cheese is well softened—no lumps
• Avoid overlapping in the air fryer to keep edges crisp
• Adjust pepper jelly amount for your desired heat level

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve with fresh fruit or a green salad for contrast. They also pair well with iced tea, refreshing cocktails, or tangy salsa if you want a dip on the side.

Variations & Customizations

Herb-infused: Add chopped basil, dill, or green onion.

Heat lovers: Pick a jalapeño or habanero pepper jelly.

Cheesy boost: Mix in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese.

Savory version: Use pesto or olive tapenade in place of jelly.

Storage & Reheating

Store cooled pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I bake them in the oven?
Yes. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes until golden.

2. Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 15 minutes.

3. Can I use tortillas instead of puff pastry?
You can, but they won’t be as flaky—still tasty, just different texture.

4. Gluten-free option?
Use gluten-free puff pastry; cook time might vary slightly.

5. Can I prep ahead?
Yes—slice the log and refrigerate before cooking up to 4 hours ahead.

Conclusion

Pepper Jelly Air Fryer Pinwheels are playful, flavorful snacks that come together effortlessly. They bring sweet heat, creamy richness, and crisp layers—all with minimal fuss. Great for last-minute hosting or kicked-back snacking.

Try them with your favorite pepper jelly or herb mix—and tell me how you twist it next time!