Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels Creamy, Cheesy, Spicy
Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels are flaky, cheesy, spicy, and irresistibly crisp, making them a perfect appetizer or party snack. They feature a rich filling of cream cheese, jalapeños, and shredded cheese rolled inside dough and sliced into beautiful spirals. The air fryer cooks them quickly, creating golden layers with a warm, creamy center. They are easy to prepare, easy to serve, and packed with the bold flavors people love in jalapeño poppers. These pinwheels are ideal for entertaining, game-day spreads, or casual gatherings where fun finger foods shine. With their crunchy edges and creamy, savory filling, they are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 120 g cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 to 3 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons cooked bacon bits
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- 1 egg, beaten, for brushing
- Cooking spray, as needed
Instructions
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet gently on a lightly floured surface.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped jalapeños, bacon bits, garlic powder, onion powder, and green onions until well combined.
- Spread the filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one long side, roll the pastry tightly into a log.
- Chill the log for about 10 minutes to make slicing easier.
- Cut the log into even pinwheels, about 1.5 cm thick.
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the pinwheels in a single layer, leaving space between them.
- Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
- Remove carefully, cool slightly, and serve warm.
Notes
- Puff pastry should be cold but workable for the best flaky texture.
- Remove jalapeño seeds for milder heat.
- Add more cheddar for a richer filling if desired.
- Chilling the rolled pastry helps keep the pinwheels neat when slicing.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the air fryer model.
- These are best served warm for maximum crispness.
- A dipping sauce such as ranch or sour cream pairs very well.