Fresh Cucumber Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Dill
These refreshing pinwheels combine thinly sliced cucumbers with a creamy, herby cream cheese filling, making a quick and easy party snack perfect for warm weather gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 pinwheels 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced lengthwise (about 12–15 strips, 1/8 inch thick)
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Zest of 1 small lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped chives or finely diced red bell pepper for color and mild sweetness
- Optional variations: smoked salmon or turkey slices, cayenne pepper or sriracha, fresh basil or chives, vegan cream cheese alternative
Instructions
- Slice the cucumbers lengthwise into thin, even strips about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick using a mandoline or sharp knife. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly blended. Fold in optional extras if using.
- Lay a cucumber strip flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture along the entire strip, leaving a small border at the edges.
- Starting at one end, carefully roll the cucumber strip into a tight spiral with the cream cheese side inside. Optionally, wrap the rolled pinwheel in plastic wrap and gently press to secure. Repeat with all strips.
- Place the pinwheels on a serving plate, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to firm up and meld flavors. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.
Notes
Use English cucumbers for thinner skin and fewer seeds to make rolling easier. Pat cucumber slices dry to prevent sogginess. Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easier spreading. Chill pinwheels for at least 15 minutes before serving to help them hold shape and meld flavors. Serve within a few hours for best texture. Variations include adding smoked salmon, turkey, or swapping dill for basil or chives. Vegan cream cheese works well for dairy-free option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 pinwheels
- Calories: 55
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 2
Keywords: cucumber pinwheels, cream cheese snacks, party appetizers, easy snacks, dill recipes, fresh cucumber snacks, no bake appetizers