These Broccoli and Cheese Pinwheels are a fast, fuss-free meal or snack made with crescent or pizza dough, melty cheddar, and tender broccoli. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re a hit with toddlers and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kid-friendly and parent-approved—soft, cheesy, and bite-sized.
Quick to prepare using store-bought or homemade dough.
Can be made with fresh or frozen broccoli.
Versatile for lunch, dinner, snacks, or party appetizers.
Freezer-friendly for easy make-ahead meals.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8-ounce tube refrigerated crescent dough (or pizza dough)
2 tablespoons cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup minced cooked broccoli
¼ teaspoon garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano (optional)

directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the crescent or pizza dough on a clean surface lined with parchment paper.
Evenly spread the cream cheese over the dough, followed by the shredded cheddar and minced broccoli. Sprinkle with optional seasonings if using.
Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
Use a serrated knife to slice the roll into 1-inch rounds.
Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before serving warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 12 pinwheels (serves 6, 2 per person)
Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 14 minutes
Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

Switch the cheese: Try mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a cheese blend.
Add protein: Mix in finely chopped cooked chicken, ham, or turkey.
Use puff pastry: For a flakier bite, use thawed puff pastry instead of crescent dough.
Go veggie-heavy: Add finely chopped spinach or bell pepper with the broccoli.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap in spicy cheese.

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled pinwheels in a freezer bag for up to 6 months.
To reheat from fridge: Microwave on a heat-safe plate or air fry at 325°F (160°C) for 2–3 minutes.
To reheat from frozen: Microwave in 15-second increments until warm.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade pizza dough works great. Just roll it to a similar thickness as crescent dough.

Do I need to cook the broccoli before using it?

Yes, the broccoli should be cooked and minced before spreading on the dough. You can use leftover or steam-in-bag frozen broccoli.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble, bake, cool, and then refrigerate or freeze. Reheat just before serving.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Ranch, marinara, salsa, or any kid-favorite dip pairs perfectly.

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

Yes! Puff pastry will give you a crispier, flakier pinwheel.

How small should the broccoli be chopped?

Finely mince it so it blends easily with the cheese and spreads evenly.

Are these good for school lunches?

Definitely. Let them cool completely and pack in a lunchbox with an ice pack or thermos.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free crescent or pizza dough.

Do I need to let the dough come to room temperature first?

If using crescent dough, no. For homemade or refrigerated pizza dough, a few minutes at room temp can make it easier to roll.

How can I keep the pinwheels from unrolling while baking?

Roll the dough tightly and place the pinwheels seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Conclusion

These Broccoli and Cheese Pinwheels are an effortless, delicious option for busy days—ready in under 25 minutes and totally customizable. With creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and a golden crust, they’re a go-to for family meals, lunchboxes, or party snacks. Whether you use crescent rolls or pizza dough, these pinwheels are sure to disappear fast!