If you’re searching for a quick, healthy, and toddler-approved lunch or dinner idea, you’re going to love these Broccoli Cheese Pinwheels. They’re soft, cheesy, and loaded with veggies. I’ll show you exactly how to make them step-by-step, with simple ingredients. Also I will cover many variations for Baby-Led Weaning and 4-ingredients for version quick moms .
Whether you’re a new parent, a working mom, a preschool teacher, or someone just trying to sneak more veggies into a little one’s plate, this recipe is for you.
Why You’ll Love These Broccoli Cheese Pinwheels
If you’re looking for an easy, toddler-friendly recipe that’s both healthy and fun to eat, these Broccoli Cheese Pinwheels are a must-try. They’re quick to make, packed with veggies, and wrapped in crispy, flaky pastry that little hands will love. If you want to give your kids This kinds of food where veggies are hidden. Try out Our Hidden Veggies Recipes.
I make these on busy afternoons or when I need a fuss-free lunchbox and they never disappoint. Here’s why you’ll want to save this recipe.
- Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
- Great for toddlers starting solids or practicing self-feeding.
- Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, and playdate snacks.
- Freezer-friendly — make a batch and save some for later.
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, introducing finger foods like soft pinwheels by 6-8 months can help babies develop self-feeding skills and explore new flavors early on.
What You Need To Need To Make This Recipe
You don’t need a long shopping list for this one. Here’s all you’ll need:
- Puff Pastry
- Broccoli
- Cheese
- A little cream cheese, (Optional)
- garlic powder, or herbs for extra flavor. (Optional)
Pro Tip: Go for low-sodium cheese if you’re making these for babies under 1 year.
Substitutions
- Puff Pastry: Pizza dough, crescent roll dough, or whole wheat tortillas
- Broccoli: Spinach, zucchini, peas, or carrots
- Cheese: Mozzarella, Colby, Monterey Jack, or dairy-free cheese
- Cream Cheese: Ricotta or dairy-free spread
Add It:
- Extra veggies: grated carrot, bell pepper, or spinach
- Protein: cooked chicken, scrambled egg, or tofu
- Flavor: garlic powder, dried herbs, or a dash of lemon juice
- Dip ideas: plain yogurt, hummus, or cream cheese dip
Pro Tip: Recipes are flexible — use what’s in your fridge and tweak to your toddler’s taste.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Pinwheels (Step-by-Step)
Alright — let’s make these little beauties!
- Steam the Broccoli until tender (about 3-4 minutes) and chop finely.
- In a bowl, combine chopped broccoli and shredded cheese. You can add cream cheese, a pinch of garlic powder, or dried herbs here if you like.
- Unroll the puff pastry on a floured surface.
- Evenly layer your broccoli-cheese mix over the pastry.
- Roll it up tightly like a log. Slice into 1-inch pieces.
- Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Storage & Reheating
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to get that crispy texture back. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months . just pop them in the oven straight from frozen.
Tips for Perfect Pinwheels
- Chill the pastry before rolling. It’s much easier to work with.
- Don’t overfill or the cheese will leak out.
- Seal the edge with water to stop it from unraveling.
- Avoid salt and cut into smaller, softer pieces. (For babies)
Variations
One of the best things about Broccoli Cheese Pinwheels is how easy it is to switch things up based on what you have in the fridge or your baby’s preferences.
Because no two toddlers are the same. Some love broccoli, others don’t. Some might be sensitive to texture or flavor. Having a few easy alternatives on hand means you can adjust this recipe to suit your little one’s taste while still keeping it healthy and easy.
Here are a few simple and fun ways you can mix and match this recipe:
Broccoli Pinwheels for Baby-Led Weaning
Studies show offering finger foods early (around 6-8 months) can help babies develop better hand-eye coordination and self-feeding skills. If you’re making these for little ones under 1 year or practicing baby-led weaning, here’s how to adjust:
- Use low-sodium or no-salt-added cheese.
- Skip any garlic, salt, or strong spices.
- Make sure the broccoli is extra soft and chopped super fine.
- Slice pinwheels into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
- Serve slightly warm, not hot.
Soft textures, mild flavors, and easy-to-grasp shapes help babies develop chewing and self-feeding skills.
4 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Pinwheels
When you’re in a hurry or don’t feel like measuring a bunch of ingredients:
- Puff Pastry
- Broccoli
- Cheese
- Garlic powder (optional)
That’s it! Mix, roll, slice, and bake. They’re still cheesy, veggie-packed, and super toddler-friendly.
Tip: Keep frozen puff pastry and broccoli in your freezer for last-minute snack emergencies.
Broccoli Cheese Pinwheels Puff Pastry
I love using puff pastry for this because it turns golden, flaky, and buttery with minimal effort.
But if you’re out of puff pastry:
- Swap for pizza dough, crescent roll dough, or even homemade flatbread.
- For a lighter version, try using a whole wheat tortilla . It won’t puff but still makes tasty little roll-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze them before baking?
Yes — slice and freeze on a tray first, then transfer to a bag.
Can I use other veggies?
Absolutely! Finely chopped spinach, carrots, or sweetcorn work great.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Sure — swap cheese for a dairy-free version and use olive oil pastry.
How do I store leftovers?
Airtight container in the fridge, and reheat before serving.
Broccoli Cheese Pinwheels
Tasty broccoli cheese pinwheels kids love. Easy to make, cheesy, and perfect for toddler snacks, lunchboxes, or quick family meals.
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes30
minutesIngredients
Puff Pastry
Broccoli
Cheese
A little cream cheese, (Optional)
garlic powder, or herbs for extra flavor. (Optional)
Directions
- Steam the Broccoli until tender (about 3-4 minutes) and chop finely.
- In a bowl, combine chopped broccoli and shredded cheese. You can add cream cheese, a pinch of garlic powder, or dried herbs here if you like.
- Unroll the puff pastry on a floured surface.
- steps by steps instruction for Broccoli Cheese Pinwheels
- Evenly layer your broccoli-cheese mix over the pastry.
- Roll it up tightly like a log. Slice into 1-inch pieces.
- Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
