Looking for a fuss-free savoury snack that’s packed with veg, full of flavour, and ideal for little hands? These Veggie Puff Pastry Pinwheels are quick to prepare, super satisfying, and brilliant for lunchboxes, picnics, or after-school snacks.
They’re cheesy, golden, and flaky on the outside – with a creamy, veg-packed filling that even fussy eaters won’t say no to. Serve them warm with a side salad or cool and pop into a snack pot. Either way, they’re a win for both grown-ups and little ones.
Ingredients (Makes 12)
● 2 large carrots
● 1 small courgette (zucchini)
● 180g full-fat cream cheese
● 2 tsp garlic granules
● Freshly ground black pepper
● 1 × 375g sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry
● 70g Cheddar cheese, finely grated
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C fan (220°C/425°F/Gas 7). Line a large baking tray with non-stick baking paper.
- Grate the veg:
Using a fine grater, grate the carrots and courgette. Place the grated veg in the centre of a clean tea towel, gather the corners, and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is key – too much liquid can make the pastry soggy. - Mix the filling:
In a bowl, combine the drained veg with the cream cheese, garlic granules, and a good grind of black pepper. Stir until the veg is evenly coated. - Fill and roll:
Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a clean surface. Spread the veg mixture evenly across the whole sheet using the back of a spoon. Sprinkle the grated Cheddar over the top and gently press it into the veg mix with your hands. - Shape your pinwheels:
Fold over one short edge of the pastry by about 1.5cm. Using this as the starting point, roll up the pastry into a thick sausage shape. Slice into 12 even pieces. - Bake:
Place the pinwheels swirl-side-up on the prepared tray, leaving a little space between each one. Bake for 18–23 minutes until golden and flaky.
How to Serve
- Warm with a simple salad and a dip (think yoghurt and cucumber or hummus)
- Cold in lunchboxes or as a picnic snack
- With fingers or cutlery: doddl cutlery helps toddlers gain confidence with soft-textured food like these pinwheels
Why These Work for Kids
- Soft texture makes them easy to chew
- Hidden veg that blends into a creamy, cheesy base
- Perfectly portioned for little hands to hold independently
- Freezer-friendly – batch-cook and store for busy days
Pair them with sliced fruit or a boiled egg for a balanced lunch, and you’ve got a meal that ticks all the boxes.
doddl Tip:
Use these pinwheels to build confidence with self-feeding. Let your child choose their dip, help you roll the pastry, or arrange them on the tray. Involving them builds positive associations with food – and it’s fun too!
Can You Freeze Veggie Pinwheels?
Absolutely. Let them cool completely, then freeze flat in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or box. Defrost and reheat in the oven for 5–7 minutes to crisp up the pastry again.
This recipe was kindly supplied by our friend Rebecca Wilson, Sunday Times bestselling author. Check out her new recipe book here.
