Cheddar Ranch Pinwheels
Cheddar Ranch Pinwheels are a quick and easy snack combining creamy ranch seasoning, sharp cheddar cheese, and soft flour tortillas rolled into bite-sized pinwheels. Perfect for kids, gatherings, or on-the-go, these flavorful snacks offer a zesty and cheesy treat that’s customizable to fit any taste or dietary needs.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 pinwheels 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Basic Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Optional Extras
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions or fresh herbs
- Finely diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or spinach (for veggie boost)
- A dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños (for spicy kick)
- Crushed tortilla chips or toasted nuts (for crunch)
Substitutions
- Gluten-free tortillas (for gluten-free diet)
- Vegan cream cheese and plant-based shredded cheese alternatives (for vegan option)
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, soften the cream cheese and mix in the ranch dressing powder until fully combined, creating a smooth and flavorful spread.
- Spread on Tortillas: Lay each flour tortilla flat on a clean surface and evenly spread a generous layer of the ranch cream cheese mixture over the entire surface.
- Add Shredded Cheddar: Sprinkle a hearty amount of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer, pressing lightly to help it stick.
- Roll Tightly and Chill: Starting on one edge, roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape, making sure it is firm. Wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help them set.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled, unwrap the rolls and slice them into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange on a platter and enjoy immediately or store for later snacking.
Notes
- Chill for clean slices: Refrigerating the rolled tortillas helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier without squishing.
- Use fresh cheese: Grate cheddar from a block for better texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Spread evenly: Make sure the cream cheese and ranch mix is spread uniformly to get balanced flavor in every bite.
- Roll firmly: Rolling tightly prevents the filling from falling out and keeps the shape intact.
- Make ahead friendly: These pinwheels keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and are great for prepping in advance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pinwheels
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cheddar ranch pinwheels, ranch snack, cheesy pinwheels, easy appetizer, kid-friendly snack, party appetizer, gluten-free snack option, vegan pinwheel alternative