Name: Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups all purpose gluten free flour blend (plus more for sprinkling); 1 teaspoon xanthan gum; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 1/2 cups nonfat plain Greek-style yogurt; 1/4 cup lukewarm water (plus more as necessary); 3/4 cup Simple Tomato Sauce (or your favorite tomato sauce); 2 ounces miniature pepperoni pieces (optional); 6 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese (shredded); 2 ounces Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (shredded); 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Jump to Recipe

When I first discovered the joy of Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels, it felt like unearthing a treasure in my own kitchen. The aroma of baking dough mingles delightfully with rich tomato sauce and melty cheese, providing a cozy reminder of childhood pizza parties. These pinwheels burst with flavor and greet you with the warmth of home-cooked goodness.

As I knead the dough, I can’t help but smile thinking of how each bite of Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels brings a nostalgic comfort to any table, especially for those embracing a gluten-free lifestyle. Trust me, your family will love diving into these delicious snacks or appetizers – let’s get cooking!

What is Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels?

Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels are delightful rolls made with a gluten-free dough base filled with classic pizza ingredients. Originating from Italian-American kitchens, they combine the essence of pizza with the fun of appetizers. The delightful swirl of flavor emerges from fresh ingredients and the hands-on action of rolling up the dough. Whipped up for snack time or a cozy movie night, these pinwheels give a nod to the traditional yet are perfectly suited for today’s dietary needs.

These little bundles of joy can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them incredibly versatile for various occasions. The use of low-moisture mozzarella gives a perfect melt, while the Simple Tomato Sauce serves as a fresh, zesty complement.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels

Flavorful: Each bite is packed with savory cheese, zesty sauce, and your choice of toppings, creating a delightful flavor experience.
Convenient: Easy to prepare, these pinwheels can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.
Health perks: Using Greek yogurt instead of traditional fats lightens the recipe without sacrificing taste, making it a health-conscious option.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy rolling their own pinwheels or diving into these bite-sized treats at gatherings.

Who It’s For

Busy families: Quick to prepare and perfect for kids who love pizza.
Health-conscious cooks: Those looking for a lighter snack or appetizer without gluten.
Food lovers: Anyone who enjoys trying new, easy recipes.
Beginner cooks: Simple enough for novice chefs to handle, making it an approachable choice.

When to Cook It

Weeknights: Great for quick dinners when you’re short on time.
Gatherings: A fun, shareable appetizer for game nights or parties.
Holidays: A festive treat that can add a personal touch to any holiday spread.
Cozy nights: Perfect for a family movie night or an intimate dinner for two.

How to Make the Perfect Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels

Ingredients

2 cups all purpose gluten free flour blend ((please click thru for full info on appropriate flour blends) plus more for sprinkling)
1 teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if your blend already contains it)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/2 cups nonfat plain Greek-style yogurt
1/4 cup lukewarm water (plus more as necessary)
3/4 cup Simple Tomato Sauce ((or your favorite tomato sauce), plus more for serving)
2 ounces miniature pepperoni pieces (optional)
6 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese (shredded)
2 ounces Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (shredded)
Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water, beaten, for brushing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin and set it aside.
Make the pizza dough. In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour blend, xanthan gum, baking powder, and kosher salt. Add Greek yogurt and lukewarm water, mixing until combined. The dough might be slightly sticky; add more water gradually if necessary until the mixture holds together but remains workable.
Shape the pizza dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the Simple Tomato Sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheeses over the sauce, and if desired, add miniature pepperoni pieces.
Bake the pinwheels. Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces and place them cut-side up in the greased muffin tin. Brush generously with the egg wash. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown, then serve with additional tomato sauce for dipping.

Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels

For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes

When opting for gluten-free recipes, discerning what sugars to use becomes vital, especially for those managing diabetes. Suitable sugar-free alternatives include options like stevia, monk fruit, and allulose. However, it’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup, as they can increase your blood sugar levels.

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowls
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Knife or pizza cutter
Muffin tin
Pastry brush

Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Choose the right flour blend: Ensuring your gluten-free flour blend is suitable for baking will enhance the texture.
Don’t over-knead: Gently combine your dough to retain some airiness, providing a light, fluffy texture.
Rest the dough: Allowing the dough to rest for a few minutes can help improve its elasticity, making it easier to roll out.
Experiment with fillings: Add insider tips by incorporating vegetables, different cheeses, or even herbs for variety.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked pinwheels before baking for up to 2 months; simply bake from frozen when ready.
Reheating: To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the egg wash: This gives your pinwheels a beautiful golden color and helps seal the edges.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision matters with gluten-free baking to ensure proper texture.
Using a high-moisture tomato sauce: Using a sauce that’s too watery can make the dough soggy, so stick with thicker sauces.
Rolling the dough too thick: Aim for a 1/4 inch thickness for the best bake.

FAQs About Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels

Q: Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling in advance, then assemble and bake them when you’re ready.

Q: What if I don’t have xanthan gum?
No, if your flour blend already contains xanthan gum, you don’t need to add it separately.

Q: Can I use dairy-free cheese?
It depends; many dairy-free cheese alternatives would work well, but check melting capabilities for the best result.

Q: Are these suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, they make an excellent option for meal prepping, especially for quick lunches or snacks.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can add a delicious twist to your pinwheels.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels

In wrapping up, I hope you feel inspired to try your hand at making Gluten Free Pizza Pinwheels. The joy of crafting your own unique flavors and sharing them with loved ones is truly satisfying. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or cold as leftovers, these delightful rolls are bound to please.

I’d love to hear about your experiences with this recipe—what variations did you try? Please comment below or share this recipe with friends who would enjoy it!