Spinach & Feta Gluten-Free Pinwheels

Spinach & Feta Gluten-Free Pinwheels

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Introduction

The Spinach & Feta Pinwheel is a classic savory pastry, beloved for its flaky texture and vibrant Mediterranean filling. This recipe elevates the traditional concept by making it entirely gluten-free, using a simple, tender cream cheese-based dough that rivals standard puff pastry. Perfect as an elegant appetizer for entertaining, a quick grab-and-go breakfast, or a satisfying lunchbox snack, these pinwheels deliver a burst of salty feta, earthy spinach, and fresh dill in every bite. They are surprisingly easy to master and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, regardless of dietary needs.

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:
  • 250 g (2 cups) Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend (ensure blend contains xanthan gum)
  • 115 g (4 oz or 1/2 cup) Cold Cream Cheese, cubed
  • 55 g (4 tbsp or 1/4 cup) Cold Unsalted Butter, cubed
  • 30-60 ml (2-4 tbsp) Cold Water or Milk (as needed)
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • For the Filling:
  • 300 g (10 oz) Frozen Chopped Spinach, thawed
  • 150 g (5 oz) Feta Cheese, crumbled
  • 50 g (2 tbsp) Softened Cream Cheese (as a binder)
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Dill (or 1 tsp fresh)
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • For Finishing:
  • 1 large Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds (optional)

Step-by-step Preparation

  1. Prepare the Dough (Chill Time: 30 minutes): In a large mixing bowl or food processor, combine the GF flour, salt, cold cream cheese, and cold butter until coarse crumbs form. Gradually add cold water or milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix. Form the dough into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Tip: Cold ingredients are crucial for a tender, flaky gluten-free dough.
  2. Prepare the Filling: Place the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towel and squeeze out all excess moisture until the spinach is very dry. In a medium bowl, combine the dried spinach, crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, dill, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. Tip: Removing moisture prevents a soggy filling and ensures the pinwheels hold their shape.
  3. Assemble the Pinwheels: Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface (using GF flour), roll the chilled dough into a rectangle approximately 30 x 40 cm (12 x 16 inches) and about 3 mm (1/8 inch) thick.
  4. Roll and Chill (Chill Time: 20 minutes): Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the rolled dough, leaving a 1 cm (1/2 inch) border on all sides. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for 20 minutes (or refrigerate for 45 minutes) to firm up the dough for easy slicing.
  5. Slice and Bake (Bake Time: 20–25 minutes): Remove the log from the freezer and slice it into 1.5 cm (3/4 inch) thick rounds. Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
  6. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and cooked through. Allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.

Nutritional Information

Assuming 16 servings, each Spinach & Feta Gluten-Free Pinwheel contains approximately 140–160 calories, 8g fat, 12g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. These pinwheels offer a good source of calcium (from the feta and cream cheese) and essential nutrients like Iron and Vitamin K from the spinach. Being gluten-free, they are easily digestible and suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

Storage

Leftover baked pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a toaster oven or standard oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-7 minutes until crisp. The unbaked, sliced pinwheels can be frozen solid on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

These Spinach & Feta Gluten-Free Pinwheels are savory perfection—flaky, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. For an enhanced experience, serve them alongside a cool, creamy dipping sauce like homemade tzatziki or a simple lemon-infused Greek yogurt dip. If you wish to vary the filling, consider adding finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. Enjoy this delicious,

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